CYBER SECURITY IN INDIA: EVOLUTION AND IMPORTANCE

With the rapid digitization of various sectors in India the need for strong cyber security measures has become paramount. India has made significant strides in strengthening its cyber security framework, with the establishment of the National Cyber Security Policy in 2013 and the formation of the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). The government has also launched initiatives like the Cyber Swachhta Kendra and Cyber Surakshit Bharat program to raise awareness and provide protection tools. Collaborations with international organizations and governments have strengthened India’s defense mechanism. However, challenges remain, such as poor security infrastructure, inadequate training, and a shortage of skilled professionals. This research paper aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for policymakers, researchers and practitioners in the field of cyber security. This research paper also mentions the major provisions of legislative statutes including the Information Technology Act, 2000, The Aadhaar Act, 2016, etc. and landmark judgments including the cases Shreya Singhal v. Union of India, Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retired) v. Union of India, etc. for drawing an idea about what is being protected by the statutes, what the statutes can allow or prohibit and under which provisions they can be claimed or challenged.