Significant Advancements in Cybersecurity Measures for Jammu and Kashmir
Srinagar: On Saturday, the Jammu and Kashmir government announced the successful implementation of cybersecurity measures across the Civil Secretariat complexes located in both Jammu and Srinagar.
This initiative encompasses approximately 5,100 devices, with a further 15,000 devices in various departments anticipated to be secured by January 2026.
This update emerged during a high-ranking meeting presided over by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, aimed at evaluating the ongoing progress of the Cyber Security Action Plan across the Union Territory.
During the meeting, Information Technology Secretary Dr. Piyush Singla disclosed that endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solutions have been put in place at the Civil Secretariat complexes, with plans for extended coverage in departmental offices.
Additionally, Singla noted the completion of security audits for departmental websites, resulting in the deactivation of 35 redundant websites after thorough consultations with the relevant sectors.
The Chief Secretary also evaluated crucial initiatives, including the enhancement of the State Data Centre (SDC), the establishment of a mini Security Operations Centre (SOC), and the promotion of official government email addresses among employees.
There are ongoing capacity-building programs designed to boost cybersecurity awareness across government departments.
Inspector General of Police (Crime) Sujit Singh provided insights regarding a comprehensive assessment of cyber forensic capabilities, elucidating a systematic three-phase approach.
The initial phase concentrates on determining the technical specifications and requisite tools for the creation of Cybercrime Investigation Centres of Excellence and Cyber Police Stations.
The second phase entails a thorough evaluation of these tools against the backdrop of evolving cyber threats such as deepfakes, encrypted mobile communications, and data breaches.
The final phase concentrates on a comparative analysis and consultations regarding the latest available tools in the market.
In conjunction with these efforts, 28 departments have undertaken an inventory of IT assets based on user nominations, while 14 departments have been urged to hasten this process.
Regarding the adoption of official government email addresses, the user base has soared to 181,000, with approximately 35,000 new users added since May 2025, and 3,500 requests processed since the previous review.
“Robust digital safety mechanisms are imperative for ensuring efficiency, transparency, and reliability in governance,” stated Dulloo.
He emphasized the need for departments to collaborate effectively with the IT Department, close existing gaps, and implement optimal cybersecurity practices, ensuring the completion of all outstanding tasks within designated timelines.
Earlier this year, during Operation Sindoor, the region faced a staggering 1.5 million cyber attacks, predominantly emanating from Pakistan.
Source link: M.economictimes.com.
