Karnataka Unveils its Cybersecurity Policy

The Karnataka Government has unveiled its Cyber Security Policy, 2023 committing 103.87 crores in the 2024-2025 state budget to tackle escalating cybercrimes. The policy aims to cultivate a culture of cybersecurity and data privacy, involving local bodies, NGOs and activists in awareness campaigns.

The focus of the Policy is on bolstering the capabilities of the State Government and the IT industry. This includes upgrading 43 Cyber, Economic and Narcotics crime police stations across the state to address cyber threats effectively.

Moreover, an MoU was signed between Cisco and the Karnataka government to train 40,000 individuals in cybersecurity. Ensuring gender diversity, the agreement stipulates that 50% of the trainees will be women. This initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to enhance diversity in the cybersecurity workforce.

Additionally, plans were unveiled to establish an Information Disorder Tackling Unit to combat fake news. Collaborating with the Information Technology and Biotechnology (“IT BT)” department, the government aims to mitigate the spread of misinformation effectively. A dedicated cell within the Home Department will be empowered to take legal measures against offenders.

These measures are in line with the National Cyber Security Policy, 2013 reinforcing Karnataka’s position as a leader in cybersecurity initiatives among Indian states.