In a bid to protect vital data and institutions, particularly related to the National Register of Citizens (NRC), the Assam government is planning to frame a cybersecurity policy.
The Assam government has sought suggestions on a draft by September 30. As soon as the suggestions are approved, the policy will be operative for five years, the report states.
According to a government official, “Vital data pertaining to the NRC, state police and citizen-centric services need to be protected. There has to be an elaborate data security plan for government agencies and small and medium enterprises.”
The official further stated that the policy would help in protecting crucial government infrastructure from hacking and manipulation. One of the aims of the policy, the official said, is to identify, analyze, protect and build capabilities to prevent and respond to cyber threats.
According to the report, the policy will help in protecting the state government’s digital database and safeguarding information technology systems and resources from theft, abuse, misuse and damage. The new policy will also promote emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, block-chain and machine learning for ensuring cyber-security in the state.
“There is also a plan to introduce course curriculum in schools and colleges on cyber-security for skilling youths and to ensure the security of mobility and cloud computing…” the official said.