Raksha Rajya Mantri Inaugurates Phase Two of Cyber Center of Excellence

The event also saw the unveiling of Research Chairs of Excellence and Distinguished Fellows, aimed at bolstering the Center’s capacity for innovation and research in cyber security.

On 14 August 2024, Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth inaugurated the second phase of the Cyber Center of Excellence (CCoE), a collaborative initiative between the United Services Institution (USI) and CyberPeace, a global NGO specializing in cyber security. The event also saw the unveiling of Research Chairs of Excellence and Distinguished Fellows, aimed at bolstering the Center’s capacity for innovation and research in cyber security.

Building on the success of its initial phase, the second phase of CCoE will enhance the Center’s focus on Tech Policy Research, Cyber Exercises, and capacity-building initiatives, which are crucial for national and global security in the digital age. Shri Sanjay Seth emphasized the foundational role of cyber security in national security, economic stability, and social welfare, given the increasing integration of digital technologies into modern life. He acknowledged the dual nature of technological advancement, which brings both opportunities and challenges that need to be addressed promptly.

The Minister highlighted that fostering innovation and excellence requires more than just incentives; it demands creating an environment conducive to idea generation and connectivity. He praised the USI and CyberPeace Foundation for their efforts in establishing a secure and vigilant digital environment.

In conjunction with the inauguration, the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with USI to recognize Cyber Security Qualifications and introduce new short-term and long-term courses in Cyber Security/Information Security. This MoU aims to enhance capacity across India, improve employability for veterans, their families, and Agniveers, and contribute to cyber peace.

The USI-CyberPeace Center of Excellence is dedicated to advancing cyber security through a holistic approach that includes cutting-edge research, technological innovation, and global collaboration. The Center is focused on developing solutions in areas such as AI, Quantum Computing, and Blockchain, while also offering extensive training programs to equip cyber security professionals with essential skills. By fostering international partnerships and advocating for stronger cyber security policies, the Center aims to enhance global cyber resilience and protect critical infrastructure. The first phase of the CCoE was launched in February 2024.