Finance Minister Holds Emergency Meeting on Cybersecurity Amid Border Tensions

Concluding the meeting, Smt. Sitharaman reaffirmed the Government of India’s unwavering commitment to national security and economic resilience.

In a decisive move amid escalating geopolitical tensions along India's borders, Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, convened an emergency high-level meeting today with the Managing Directors and Chief Executive Officers of major Public and Private Sector Banks, as well as top insurance firms. The meeting, held in New Delhi, aimed to review the operational and cybersecurity preparedness of India’s financial institutions during a period marked by heightened national security concerns.

The urgent consultation comes in the wake of increasing cyber threats and physical security risks to banking infrastructure and personnel, particularly in border regions. Senior officials from the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), and National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) were also in attendance.

Focus on Cyber Preparedness and Operational Continuity

Key discussions in the meeting revolved around bolstering cybersecurity protocols and ensuring seamless banking operations, especially digital services such as Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and internet banking. The Finance Minister was briefed by bank heads on the proactive steps being undertaken to secure the banking ecosystem.

Bank officials reported the implementation of robust anti-DDoS (Distributed Denial-of-Service) systems to mitigate the risk of massive cyber-attacks. Regular mock drills and simulation exercises are being conducted to test response mechanisms for both cybersecurity breaches and disaster recovery scenarios. Additionally, phishing detection systems have been intensified, and staff have been issued multiple internal advisories to raise awareness and vigilance.

Security Operations Centres (SOC) and Network Operations Centres (NOC) are reportedly functioning at full capacity and on high alert. These centres are closely coordinating with CERT-In and the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) to enable real-time threat intelligence sharing and incident response.

Ministerial Directives for Heightened Vigilance and Service Continuity

Addressing the gathering, Smt. Sitharaman underscored the indispensable role of the financial sector in preserving economic stability, particularly during periods of geopolitical instability. She emphasized that banking services—both digital and physical—must continue uninterrupted, with a strong focus on border regions where infrastructure may be vulnerable.

She directed banks to ensure that emergency response protocols are up-to-date, thoroughly tested, and capable of addressing evolving contingencies. Highlighting the importance of continuity in banking services, the Finance Minister stressed the need for constant availability of cash at ATMs, functional digital banking channels, and essential financial services for both individuals and businesses.

In a notable move, Smt. Sitharaman mandated the appointment of two senior officials at each bank’s headquarters—one responsible for cybersecurity reporting and the other for overseeing operational continuity, including cash supply and branch functioning. These officers are required to maintain real-time coordination with CERT-In, RBI, and the Department of Financial Services.

Protection of Personnel and Customers Prioritized

Concerned about the welfare of bank employees and their families, especially those stationed in sensitive border areas, the Finance Minister instructed banks to liaise with local security agencies to guarantee their safety. Banks were urged to remain people-centric in their approach, ensuring that citizens do not face disruptions or hardships in accessing vital financial services.

Insurance companies were also directed to maintain uninterrupted customer service and expedite claim settlements, given the possibility of emergencies arising from the current security situation. Special instructions were issued to Sponsor Banks to provide immediate and hands-on support to Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), helping them navigate operational challenges during this critical period.

Government’s Commitment to Economic Resilience

Concluding the meeting, Smt. Sitharaman reaffirmed the Government of India’s unwavering commitment to national security and economic resilience. She expressed confidence in the strength and adaptability of the Indian banking and financial system and reassured that the sector remains robust, responsive, and capable of withstanding external shocks.

With coordinated efforts between financial institutions and government agencies now in place, India’s financial backbone appears poised to withstand emerging threats while continuing to deliver essential services to its citizens—reinforcing the nation’s resolve in the face of adversity.