The concept of the cyber commando wing was first proposed earlier this year during the DGP/IG conference when Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the need for its establishment
India is taking proactive steps to address the growing threat of cyberattacks by establishing a dedicated unit of “cyber commandos.” These cyber commandos will be drawn from various police forces in both states and Union Territories, as well as central police organisations.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recently communicated with states and UTs, urging them to identify and select ten suitable individuals to become part of this specialised new cyber commando unit. The concept of the cyber commando wing was first proposed earlier this year during the DGP/IG conference when Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the need for its establishment.
According to the MHA, this specialised cyber commando unit will be responsible for countering cyber threats, defending information technology networks, conducting cyber investigations, and fulfilling the ongoing cyber security needs of both the police and government organisations.
The MHA’s letter stated: “During the DGPs/IGPs Conference held in the month of January 2023, the Prime Minister recommended that a Special Wing of suitably trained ‘Cyber Commandos’ should be established to counter threats to cyber security, to defend Information Technology Network, conduct investigation in the cyber space, and to take care of cyber security requirements of the Police and Government organisations on an ‘ongoing basis.'”
The cyber commando wing will be an integral part of police organisations, consisting of individuals who possess knowledge and aptitude in the field of IT security and digital forensics. These hand-picked commandos will receive specialised training and be equipped with the necessary tools and systems to effectively counter cyber threats, as well as safeguard the nation’s cyber infrastructure.
The training of these cyber commandos will be conducted by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the MHA, in collaboration with other top institutions. These commandos will continue to serve in their parent organisations and will be deployed for national duties only in cases of urgent cyber threats.
The MHA’s communication to states and UTs urged them to identify at least 10 individuals with a basic understanding of computer networks and operating systems who could potentially serve as cyber commandos.
This initiative reflects India’s commitment to staying ahead of the evolving cyber threats and ensuring the security of its digital infrastructure through a specialised and highly trained workforce.
