Karnataka Allocates Rs 103 Cr For State's Cybersecurity Policy

The Karnataka government launched a Cybersecurity Policy 2024 on Thursday. The policy's implementation will span five years and is supported by a budget allocation of Rs 103.87 crore, with Rs 23.74 crore earmarked for incentives and concessions. Key areas of focus include awareness and education, skill building, promotion of industry and startups, and partnerships for capacity building.

This first-of-its-kind move seeks to create a strong cybersecurity environment that covers everyone in society, ranging from the general public, academics, industry, startups and finally governments.

This policy has reportedly been reviewed by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and drafted collaboratively by the Department of Electronics, IT, BT, and S&T; the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (e-Governance); and the Home Department.

Details On Policy 

The policy has two parts: one that is aimed at promoting a cybersecurity ecosystem, whereas the second one seeks to enhance the cybersecurity posture of IT assets in the state.

Incentives under the policy include a stipend of Rs 10,000-15,000 per month for Karnataka-based undergraduate and postgraduate interns, with a target of 600 undergraduate and 120 postgraduate interns. Additionally, matching grants of up to 50 per cent of the total project R&D cost, or up to Rs 50 lakh, will be provided for R&D projects in cybersecurity driven by Karnataka-based startups in collaboration with academic institutes.

The other key benefit mentioned in the policy document is for startups registered with the Karnataka Startup Cell, a grant of up to Rs 1 lakh will be provided to engage Cert-In-empanelled service providers based in Karnataka for a cybersecurity audit.

The Karnataka government also unveiled a skilling programme along with Cisco at the launch event. Key components of the programme include the CyberOps Associate certification, which will offer immersive training in cybersecurity operations for soon-to-be graduates and Cybersecurity Essentials, providing foundational knowledge for safeguarding digital assets. 

Additionally, the programme includes an Introduction to Cybersecurity course that covers basic principles and practices. A 'Training of Trainers' module is also part of the initiative, designed to empower college faculty to impart advanced cybersecurity expertise, ensuring sustainable skill development across institutions. The programme extends to all unemployed graduates in the state, equipping them with vital skills to support employability and unlock career prospects in the rapidly expanding cybersecurity sector.