Introduction

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The Cyber First Responder Program was organized by the CyberPeace Foundation in collaboration with Haryana Police as a Pre-Summit event under the India AI Impact Summit 2026. The initiative aimed to advance cybersecurity awareness and AI safety by engaging policymakers, law enforcement officials, educators, students, and members of civil society. The program emphasized collective responsibility in addressing the increasing threats of AI-enabled cybercrime while promoting community-based resilience and safe digital practices.

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Participation

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The event was graced by Smt. Rekha Sharma, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, as the Chief Guest. Distinguished participants included Dr. Veerendra Kr. Mishra, IPS, and Shri Shibas Kaviraj, IPS, along with senior representatives from the CyberPeace Foundation and Haryana Police. Around 300 participants attended the event in person, representing law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations.

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Key Takeaways

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The program featured impactful sessions and outreach activities designed to promote grassroots awareness and technical preparedness. Highlights included the launch of a Cyber Awareness Van, cultural performances such as nukkad nataks on issues like digital arrest, phishing, and honeytraps, and creative competitions including poster making and quizzes on cyber hygiene. A short film screening reinforced everyday safe practices in digital environments.

On the technical front, workshops for law enforcement officials focused on enhancing cybercrime response capabilities and managing AI-driven threats. Haryana Police shared remarkable outcomes, including the identification and blocking of more than 3.43 lakh fraudulent bank accounts and 1.24 lakh fake SIM cards, along with the strengthening of the 1930 Cyber Helpline. These steps demonstrated a mission-oriented approach to protecting citizens from digital threats.

The event underscored three essential themes. Cybersecurity must be inclusive and community-based. AI can serve as both a challenge and a defense mechanism. Citizens must be empowered as first responders to ensure long-term cyber resilience.

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Way Forward

‍The Cyber First Responder Program set the stage for a nationwide effort to integrate AI safety and cybersecurity awareness into everyday life. The initiative highlighted the importance of developing AI-driven citizen outreach tools, promoting real-time fraud detection systems, and building a national Cyber First Responder training curriculum. These insights will contribute directly to the India AI Impact Summit 2026, shaping discussions on scalable and sustainable strategies for a safer digital future.