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Introduction

The US national cybersecurity strategy was released at the beginning of March this year. The aim of the cybersecurity strategy is to build a more defensive and resilient digital mechanism through general investments in the cybersecurity infrastructure. It is important to invest in a resilient future, And the increasing digital diplomacy and private-sector partnerships, regulation of crucial industries, and holding software companies accountable if their products enable hackers in.

What is the cybersecurity strategy  

The US National cybersecurity strategy is the plan which organisations pursue to fight against cyberattacks and cyber threats, and also they plan a risk assessment plan for the future in a resilient way. Through the cybersecurity strategy, there will be appropriate defences against cyber threats.

US National Cybersecurity Strategy-

the national cybersecurity strategy mainly depends on five pillars-

1. Critical infrastructure- The national cybersecurity strategy intends to defend important infrastructure from cyberattacks, for example, hospitals and clean energy installations. This pillar mainly focuses on the security and resilience of critical systems and services that are critical.
2. Disrupt & Threat Assessment- This strategy pillar seeks to address and eliminate cyber attackers who endanger national security and public safety.
3. Shape the market forces in resilient and security has driven-
4. Invest in resilient future approaches.
5. Forging international partnerships to pursue shared goals.

Need for a National cybersecurity strategy in India –

India is becoming more reliant on technology for day-to-day purposes, communication and banking aspects. And as per the computer emergency response team (CERT-In), in 2022, ransomware attacks increased by 50% in India. Cybercrimes against individuals are also rapidly on the rise. To build a safe cyberspace, India also required a national cybersecurity strategy in the country to develop trust and confidence in IT systems.

Learnings for India-

India has a cybersecurity strategy just now but India can also implement its cybersecurity strategy as the US just released. For the threats assessments and for more resilient future outcomes, there is a need to eliminate cybercrimes and cyber threats in India.

Shortcomings of the US National Cybersecurity Strategy-

• The implementation of the United States National Cybersecurity Strategy has Some problems and things that could be improved in it. Here are some as follows:

• Significant difficulties: The cybersecurity strategy proved to be difficult for government entities. The provided guidelines do not fulfil the complexity and growing cyber threats.
• Insufficient to resolve desirable points: the implementation is not able to resolve some, of the aspects of national cybersecurity strategies, for example, the defined goals and resource allocation, which have been determined to be addressed by the national cybersecurity strategy and implementation plan.
• Lack of Specifying the Objectives: the guidelines shall track the cybersecurity progress, and the implementation shall define the specific objectives.
• Implementation Alone is insufficient: cyber-attacks and cybercrimes are increasing daily, and to meet this danger, the US cybersecurity strategy shall not depend on the implementation. However, the legislation will help to involve public-private collaboration, and technological advancement is required.
• The strategy calls for critical infrastructure owners and software companies to meet minimum security standards and be held liable for flaws in their products, but the implementation and enforcement of these standards and liability measures must be clearly defined.

Conclusion

There is a legitimate need for a national cybersecurity strategy to fight against the future consequences of the cyber pandemic. To plan proper strategies and defences. It is crucial to avail techniques under the cybersecurity strategy. And India is increasingly depending on technology, and cybercrimes are also increasing among individuals. Healthcare sectors and as well on educational sectors, so to resolve these complexities, there is a need for proper implementations.

The world of Artificial Intelligence is entering a new phase with the rise of Agentic AI, often described as the third wave of AI evolution. Unlike earlier systems that relied on static models (that learn from the information that is fed) and reactive outputs, Agentic AI introduces intelligent agents that can make decisions, take initiative, and act autonomously in real time. These systems are designed to require minimal human oversight while actively collaborating and learning continuously. Such capabilities indicate an incoming shift, especially in the ways in which Indian businesses can function. For better understanding, Agentic AI is capable of streamlining operations, personalising services, and driving innovations at scale.

India and Agentic AI

Building as we go, India is making continuous strides in the AI revolution- deliberating on government frameworks, and simultaneously adapting. At Microsoft's Pinnacle 2025 summit in Hyderabad, India's pivotal role in shaping the future of Agentic AI was brought to the spotlight. With over 17 million developers on GitHub and ambitions to become the world's largest developer community by 2028, India's tech talent is gearing up to lead global AI innovations. Microsoft's Azure AI Foundry, also highlighted the country's growing influence in the AI landscape.

Indian companies are actively integrating Agentic AI into their operations to enhance efficiency and customer experience. Zomato is leveraging AI agents to optimise delivery logistics, ensuring timely and efficient service. Infosys has developed AI-driven copilots to assist developers in code generation, reducing development time, requiring fewer people to work on a particular project, and improving software quality. 

As per a report by Deloitte, the Indian AI market is projected to grow potentially $20 billion by 2028. However, this is accompanied by significant challenges. 92% of Indian executives identify security concerns as the primary obstacle to responsible AI usage. Additionally, regulatory uncertainties and privacy risks associated with sensitive data were also highlighted.

Challenges in Adoption

Despite the enthusiasm, several barriers hinder the widespread adoption of Agentic AI in India:

• Skills Gap: While the AI workforce is expected to grow to 1.25 million by 2027, the current growth rate of 13% is considered to be insufficient with respect to the demands of the market. 
• Data Infrastructure: Effective AI systems require robust, structured, and accessible datasets. Many organisations lack the necessary data maturity, leading to flawed AI outputs and decision-making failures.
• Trust and Governance: Building trust in AI systems is crucial. Concerns over data privacy, ethical usage, and regulatory compliance require robust governance frameworks to ensure the adoption of AI in a responsible manner.
• Looming fear of job loss: As AI continues to take up more sophisticated roles, a general feeling of hesitancy with respect to the loss of employment/human labour might come in the way of adopting such measures.
• Outsourcing: Currently, most companies prefer outsourcing or buying AI solutions rather than building them in-house. This gives rise to the issue of adapting to evolving needs.

The Road Ahead

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To fully realise the potential of Agentic AI, India must address the following challenges :

• Training the Workforce: Initiatives and workshops tailored for employees that provide AI training can prove to be helpful. Some relevant examples are Microsoft’s commitment to provide AI training to 2 million individuals by 2025 and Infosys's in-house AI training programs.
• Data Readiness: Investing in modern data infrastructure and promoting data literacy are essential to improve data quality and accessibility.
• Establishing Governance Frameworks: Developing clear regulatory guidelines and ethical standards will foster trust and facilitate responsible AI adoption. Like the IndiaAI mission, efforts regarding evolving technology and keeping up with it are imperative.

Agentic AI holds unrealised potential to transform India's business landscape when coupled with innovation and a focus on quality that enhances global competitiveness. India is at a position where by proactively addressing the existing challenges, this potential can be realised and set the foundation for a new technological revolution (along with in-house development), solidifying its position as a global AI leader.

References

• https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/artificial-intelligence/india-facing-shortage-of-agentic-ai-professionals-amid-surge-in-demand/articleshow/120651512.cms?from=mdr
• https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/artificial-intelligence/india-a-global-leader-in-agentic-ai-adoption-deloitte-report/articleshow/119906474.cms?from=mdr
• https://inc42.com/features/from-zomato-to-infosys-why-indias-biggest-companies-are-betting-on-agentic-ai/
• https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/agentic-ai-next-big-leap-in-workplace-automation-101742548406693.html
• https://www.deloitte.com/in/en/about/press-room/india-rides-the-agentic-ai-wave.html
• https://www.businesstoday.in/tech-today/news/story/ais-next-chapter-starts-in-india-microsoft-champions-agentic-ai-at-pinnacle-2025-474286-2025-05-01
• https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/calm-before-ai-storm-a-moment-to-prepare-101746110985736.html‍
• https://www.financialexpress.com/life/technology/why-agentic-ai-is-the-next-big-thing/3828357/
  

Introduction

On September 27, 2024, the Indian government took a significant step toward enhancing national security by amending business allocation rules through an extraordinary gazette notification. This amendment, which assigns specific roles to different Union Ministries and Departments regarding telecom network security, cybersecurity, and cybercrime, aims to clarify and streamline efforts in these critical areas. With India's evolving cybersecurity landscape, the need for a structured regulatory framework is pressing, as threats grow in complexity. Recent developments, such as the July 2024 global cyber outage and increasing cyber crimes like SMS scams, highlight the urgency of such reforms. Under Article 77 clause (3), the President amended the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961, to designate clearer responsibilities, reinforcing India's readiness to tackle emerging digital threats.

Key Highlights of the Gazette Notification

• Telecom Networks Security: A new entry ‘1A’ matters relating to the security of telecom networks" has been added under the Department of Telecommunications, highlighting an increased focus on securing the nation's telecom infrastructure.
• Cyber Security Responsibilities: Cyber security responsibilities have been added as a new entry under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), "5B. This assigns responsibility to MeitY for cybersecurity issues, concerning the Information Technology Act of 2000, giving the ministry the mandate to support other ministries or departments regarding cybersecurity matters.
• Oversight for Cyber Crime: Under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Internal Security, a new entry "36A Matters relating to Cyber Crime" is introduced. This emphasises that the MHA will handle cybercrime issues, highlighting the government's attention toward enhancing internal security against cyber threats.
• Cyber Security Strategic Coordination: Any matter related to the "overall coordination and strategic direction for Cyber Security," has been given to the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). This consolidates the role of the NSCS in guiding cybersecurity strategies at the national level.

Impact on Policy and Governance 

The amendments introduced through the notification are poised to significantly enhance the Indian government's cybersecurity framework by clarifying the roles of various ministries. The clear separation of responsibilities, telecom network security to the Department of Telecommunications, cybercrime to the Ministry of Home Affairs, and overall cyber strategy to the National Security Council Secretariat could seen as better coordination between ministries. This clarity is expected to reduce bureaucratic delays, allowing for quicker response times in addressing cyber threats, cybercrimes, and telecom vulnerabilities. Such efficient handling is crucial, especially in the evolving landscape of digital threats. These changes have been largely welcomed as it recognises the potential for improved regulatory oversight and faster policy implementation and a step forward in bolstering India’s cyber resilience. 

Conclusion 

The Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961 amendments mark a critical step in strengthening India's cybersecurity framework. By setting out specific responsibilities for telecom network security, cybercrime, and overall cybersecurity strategy among key ministries, the government seeks to improve coordination and reduce bureaucratic delays. This policy shift is poised to enhance India’s digital resilience, providing a foundation for rapid responses to emerging cyber threats. However, success hinges on effective implementation, resource allocation, and collaboration across ministries. Addressing concerns like potential jurisdictional overlap and ensuring the inclusion of bodies like NCIIPC will be pivotal to ensuring comprehensive cyber protection. The complexity of cyber crimes and threats is evolving every day and the government's ability and preparedness to handle them with regulatory insight is a high priority.

References

• https://egazette.gov.in/(S(4r5oclueuwrjypfvr5b4vtzg))/ViewPDF.aspx 
• https://www.ptinews.com/story/national/govt-specifies-roles-on-matters-related-to-security-of-telecom-network-cyber-security-and-cyber-crime/1856627
• https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/centre-to-further-streamline-mechanism-to-deal-with-cyber-security-cyber-crime/article68694330.ece
• https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/policy/govt-specifies-roles-on-matters-related-to-security-of-telecom-network-cyber-security-and-cyber-crime/113754501 

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