Bharat National Cyber Security Exercise (NCX) 2023 organised in New Delhi from October 9 to 20 October which signifies India's unwavering quest for cybersecurity excellence.
The event is a unifying platform for over 300 participants, representing a diverse spectrum of government agencies, public organisations and the private sector, all resolutely committed to the safeguarding of critical information infrastructure.
Organised by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) in strategic partnership with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) and Bharat NCX 2023.
Speaking at the event, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, PVSM, AVSM, VM, ADC, Chief of the Air Staff stressed the importance of cyber security in today’s world and mentioned that future battles will be fought primarily in the cyber domain. He also stressed the importance of operational technology in the domain of cyberspace.
Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary DDR&D and Chairman of Defence Research and Development Organisation, while speaking at the Closing Session made a special mention of such events which would enhance the Nation’s cyber security posture.
Further, Lt Gen M U Nair, National Cyber Security Coordinator, provided a strategic overview of India's cyber domain. His insights illuminated the evolving landscape of cyber threats, emphasizing the pivotal role of collective vigilance in safeguarding the nation's digital assets.
Colonel Nidhish Bhatnagar, the Director of RRU, expressed his admiration for the steadfast dedication of the government to cybersecurity during the event. He underscored the vital importance of such efforts in safeguarding India's digital security, particularly in a time marked by widespread digitization and increased exposure to threats.
Bharat NCX 2023 represents a defining moment in India's unwavering commitment to cybersecurity excellence, underscoring the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among government, public and private stakeholders.
Bharat NCX 2023, organised intense training for the participants over six days and a red-on-blue Live Fire cyber exercise over five days, wherein participants challenged their cyber skills against a determined adversary. The exercise also had a Strategic Track for leadership-level discussions on the cyber threat landscape, incident response and crisis management to handle real-world cyber challenges.
In addition to the core exercise, Bharat NCX 2023 hosted the Bharat NCX CISOs Conclave, gathering over 200 Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) from the government, public organisations and the private sector. This exclusive gathering of industry leaders provided a unique platform for in-depth discussions and deliberations on the evolving cyber threat landscape.
Bharat NCX 2023 also showcased an exhibition spotlighting the innovation and resilience of Indian Cyber Security start-ups and Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs). The exhibition presented cutting-edge solutions and technologies developed by these dynamic entities, underscoring their pivotal role in fortifying India's cybersecurity ecosystem.
Bharat NCX 2023 while making endeavours to fortify our cyber defences also highlighted the need for a National Cyber Security Strategy resulting in governance structures supported by legal frameworks, efficient processes for threat intel sharing and enhancing Public Private Partnership.
In an era characterized by burgeoning digitalisation, Bharat NCX 2023 serves as a compelling reminder of the paramount importance of collective vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding our nation's invaluable digital assets.