MeitY Initiatives in 2024: Strengthening Cybersecurity and Empowering Citizens Through Digital Transformation
New Delhi, December 31: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has spearheaded several initiatives in 2024, focusing on cybersecurity, digital governance, and citizen empowerment. These efforts include updated regulations, regional outreach programs, and a robust digital infrastructure that has transformed India’s governance and service delivery.
Advancements in Cybersecurity
One of the key highlights of MeitY’s initiatives is the updated regulations for CCTV cameras under the Comprehensive Regulatory Order (CRO) introduced in October 2024. These regulations mandate that all CCTV cameras manufactured or sold in India must adhere to stringent security standards, including physical security, access control, network encryption, and penetration testing. This policy ensures the quality and cybersecurity of surveillance systems, thereby enhancing public safety.
Under Section 79A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Central Government empowered 15 forensic laboratories to serve as Examiners of Electronic Evidence. MeitY tasked the Standardization Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) Directorate to assess and evaluate laboratories for this role, providing courts and authorities with expert opinions on electronic evidence.
Additionally, the Cyber Surakshit Bharat initiative has been pivotal in training IT officers to combat cyber threats. In 2024, the program conducted its 43rd CISO Deep-Dive Training Programme and workshops in New Delhi and Kerala, equipping over 350 officials with the tools to enhance cybersecurity resilience.
Bridging the Digital Divide
MeitY’s efforts have significantly expanded digital access in rural India. With 5.84 lakh operational Common Service Centres (CSCs), including 4.63 lakh at the gram panchayat level, these centers provide over 800 government services, bridging the digital divide and fostering rural empowerment.
CSC e-Governance Services partnered with the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) to organize welfare camps across the country. These camps facilitated access to social security schemes like the National Pension System (NPS), Atal Pension Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi, empowering over 9 crore traders and citizens in remote areas.
Empowering Governance Through Technology
The ministry’s collaboration with the National e-Governance Division (NeGD) and IIM Visakhapatnam has enhanced governance through artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). These efforts ensure the responsible implementation of AI, focusing on data privacy and ethical standards. Workshops such as the Digital India State Consultation in Tamil Nadu showcased innovative projects, including AI-based cataract detection and digital land records.
India’s digital infrastructure also received a significant boost, with the National Informatics Centre (NIC) establishing advanced National Data Centres (NDCs) in major cities. The state-of-the-art NDC in Guwahati addresses the specific challenges of the Northeastern region, fostering socio-economic growth. The MeghRaj cloud ecosystem further supports over 300 government departments, enhancing service delivery through platforms like DigiLocker, which now boasts 37 crore users and 776 crore issued documents.
Transforming Citizen Services
Platforms like UMANG and MyGov have revolutionized access to government services. UMANG offers 2,077 services in 23 languages, serving over 7.12 crore users, while MyGov engages nearly 4.89 crore registered users in participatory governance.
The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has set new benchmarks for financial inclusion, processing over 24,100 crore transactions by mid-2024. Similarly, MeriPehchaan, a single sign-on platform, has streamlined over 132 crore transactions, simplifying service delivery for citizens.
Education and Health Initiatives
MeitY’s focus on education and health has been transformative. With 138.34 crore Aadhaar numbers generated, and DIKSHA providing 556.37 crore learning sessions, India boasts the world’s largest digital education platform. The creation of 67 million Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) numbers and the integration of 1,803 institutions and 637 districts under the National Knowledge Network highlight the ministry’s commitment to digital empowerment.
Conclusion
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has made remarkable strides in 2024, strengthening cybersecurity, fostering digital inclusion, and transforming governance. Through innovative policies and programs, MeitY continues to empower citizens and build a digitally resilient India, aligning with the vision of a truly Digital India.
