India Launches 350-Strong Cyber Commando Force to Tackle ₹7,488 Crore Yearly Cybercrime Loss
In a decisive move to combat the growing menace of cybercrime, India is launching a dedicated Cyber Commando force. This elite unit, consisting of 350 highly trained personnel, is being established as part of a broader strategy to safeguard the nation’s digital infrastructure. With cybercrime losses in India estimated to reach ₹7,488 crore this year alone, the formation of this specialized force marks a significant step towards bolstering the country’s cybersecurity defenses.
The Cyber Commando unit will draw its ranks from various state police forces, with members undergoing rigorous training at some of India’s premier institutions. These include the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), and the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy. The curriculum will cover advanced topics such as digital forensics, cyber threat intelligence, and defensive and offensive cyber operations. This is to ensure that these commandos are not only capable of responding to cyberattacks but also proactive in preventing them.
The force is set to be officially commissioned next month, with a launch event planned for September 10th, where Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to interact with the newly inducted commandos. This initiative is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs' (MHA) 100-day action plan, underscoring the urgency with which the government is addressing cyber threats.
The formation of the Cyber Commando force comes at a time when India is witnessing an unprecedented surge in cybercrime. According to recent data from the MHA, cybercriminals have stolen ₹7,488.6 crore from Indian citizens in 2023 alone. The states of Maharashtra and Telangana have been particularly affected, with losses exceeding ₹990.7 crore and ₹759.1 crore, respectively. These figures highlight the pressing need for a dedicated force that can tackle these sophisticated and evolving threats.
In addition to the Cyber Commando force, the MHA is rolling out several other initiatives aimed at enhancing the country’s cyber defenses. These include the Samanvaya Joint Management Information System and the Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC). These platforms are designed to improve coordination between various agencies and provide real-time responses to cyber threats.
The establishment of the Cyber Commando force is not just about responding to immediate threats. It’s also about preparing India for the future. As the country continues its digital transformation, the risks associated with cyber vulnerabilities will only increase. By investing in specialized training and cutting-edge technology, the government is positioning India to confront these challenges head-on.
The Cyber Commando force will serve as a national resource, ready to defend the country’s critical information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure. Their mission will include not just responding to cyberattacks but also conducting in-depth investigations into cybercrimes, ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.
As India takes these bold steps to secure its digital future, the message is clear: the government is fully committed to protecting its citizens and businesses from the growing threat of cybercrime. The launch of the Cyber Commando force is a significant milestone in this ongoing effort, signaling a new era of enhanced cybersecurity in India.
