🔆 Mains Question Q. Given the increasing cybersecurity challenges in India, which demand continuous innovation and adaptability, discuss the role of CERT-In in protecting India’s cyberspace. (200 Words) 🔆 Model Answer 📍 Introduction India faces rapidly evolving cybersecurity challenges, with increasing complexity and frequency of cyberattacks such as ransomware, phishing, identity theft, and state-sponsored intrusions. Addressing these challenges requires continuous innovation and adaptive strategies, where CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) plays a pivotal role in securing the nation’s cyberspace. 📍 Evolving Cybersecurity Threats Key Threats: Virus dissemination, website defacement, data breaches, and advanced AI-driven attacks. Facts: 1.In 2023, 83% of Indian organizations reported cybersecurity incidents. 2.State-sponsored cyberattacks surged by 278% (2021–2023). 3.AI-related threats increased weekly cyberattacks by 18% in Q1 2023. 📍 Role of CERT-In Proactive Functions ✅ Security Guidelines: Issues advisories to prevent threats (e.g., 2023 guidelines for government entities). ✅ Risk Analysis: Identifies vulnerabilities (e.g., flagged Akira ransomware in 2023). ✅ Capacity Building: Conducts training programs (e.g., collaboration with Mastercard India for financial sector resilience). ✅ National Repository: Maintains a central database for cybersecurity data. Reactive Functions ✅ Incident Response: Offers 24/7 support for cyber threat management. ✅ Incident Recovery: Handled over 1.39 million cases in 2022. ✅ Information Sharing: Coordinates with global CERTs for real-time threat intelligence. ✅ Artifact Analysis: Traces and analyzes malware origins. 📍 Suggestions for Improvement 1.Increase funding for advanced cyber defense technologies. 2.Enhance international cooperation for real-time threat intelligence. 3.Strengthen public-private partnerships to boost cybersecurity resilience. 📍 Conclusion CERT-In is vital for safeguarding India’s cyberspace, acting as the first line of defense against cyber threats. To address growing challenges, continuous support, innovation, and collaboration are essential to bolster its capabilities further.