How is the IT Ministry and BITS-Pilani Enhancing Cybersecurity Training for Professionals?

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How is the IT Ministry and BITS-Pilani Enhancing Cybersecurity Training for Professionals?

Synopsis

In a pivotal move to strengthen India's cybersecurity, the IT Ministry and BITS Pilani have launched a Professional Development Programme aimed at government and industry professionals. This initiative addresses the urgent need for skilled cybersecurity experts in the face of rising digital threats.

Key Takeaways

  • Collaboration between CERT-In and BITS Pilani to enhance cybersecurity training.
  • 8-week programme for professionals across multiple sectors.
  • Open to participants regardless of coding experience.
  • Certification co-branded by CERT-In and BITS Pilani.
  • Addresses the pressing need for cybersecurity expertise in India.

New Delhi, July 11 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative to bolster India's cyber defence capabilities, CERT-In has joined forces with the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani to introduce Professional Development Programmes in Cybersecurity targeting professionals from the government, public sector, and industry.

This comprehensive 8-week programme is tailored for working professionals in government, PSUs, and various industries, and will be offered by BITS Pilani via its Centre for Research Excellence in National Security (CRENS) located at the Hyderabad Campus. The programme is developed in partnership with Rapifuzz, under the expert guidance and mentorship of CERT-In, the national agency responsible for cyber incident response in India.

The aim of this collaboration is to meet the increasing demand for structured, impactful capacity building in cybersecurity, especially as digital threats and challenges continue to evolve.

“India’s cyber resilience is not solely dependent on the development of indigenous advanced technologies but also on cultivating a vibrant, highly skilled workforce capable of tackling the challenges posed by the digital and quantum age,” stated Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General of CERT-In.

The partnership between CERT-In and BITS-Pilani represents a crucial milestone in equipping professionals with advanced cybersecurity skills, while promoting a dynamic collaboration that aligns industry needs with academic excellence, he added.

The programme is set to commence on July 19 and welcomes participants from various sectors, including those who may not have prior coding experience, as indicated by the IT Ministry.

Upon successful completion, participants will earn a Professional Development Certificate in Cybersecurity, co-branded by CERT-In and BITS Pilani, highlighting both academic rigor and national recognition.

As global cyber threats rise, CERT-In plays a vital role in protecting India’s digital infrastructure. As the designated national agency for cyber incident response under Section 70B of the Information Technology Act, 2000, it is at the forefront of incident prevention, real-time threat mitigation, and enhancing cyber resilience through Security Quality Management Services, making it a cornerstone of India's cyber defence strategy.

“At BITS Pilani, we perceive cybersecurity not just as a technological hurdle, but as a national imperative. This programme exemplifies the strength of our collaboration among academia, industry, and government, and we take pride in offering it under the auspices of CERT-In,” said Professor V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice-Chancellor of BITS Pilani.

Point of View

I firmly believe that initiatives like the one between CERT-In and BITS Pilani are crucial for strengthening our national cybersecurity framework. By investing in professional development, we are not only enhancing individual capabilities but also fortifying our national security against evolving cyber threats.
NationPress
31/08/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cybersecurity programme?
The cybersecurity programme is designed to last for 8 weeks, providing comprehensive training for professionals.
Who is eligible to participate in the programme?
The programme is open to professionals from government, public sector units, and industry, including those without prior coding experience.
What certification will participants receive?
Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a Professional Development Certificate in Cybersecurity, co-branded by CERT-In and BITS Pilani.
When does the programme start?
The programme is set to commence on July 19.
What role does CERT-In play in this initiative?
CERT-In mentors and guides the programme, leveraging its expertise as the national agency for cyber incident response.