S. Vishnu Sharma
IIT Kanpur was the cynosure of all eyes when its C3iHub commenced its conference on cyber security.
C3iHub is the technology innovation hub of IIT Kanpur and the conference was about emerging trends in cybersecurity. The event went on from 22 to 25 October 2024.
Significant Occasion
This event marked a significant occasion in the celebration of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and aimed to facilitate meaningful discussions on emerging trends and threats within the cybersecurity domain.
It also aimed to explore innovative solutions and protection strategies for real-world security incidents, say sources from IIT Kanpur.
Inaugural
Chief guest for the inaugural session of event at IIT Kanpur was Lt. Gen M U Nair, Cybersecurity Coordinator of India.
Other eminent personalities present were Dr. Gulshan Rai, former National Cyber Security Coordinator and Ex-Director General of CERT-In, and Dr. Ajay Kumar, former Defence Secretary of India.
International speakers
The event also featured international speakers from renowned institutions such as MITRE, George Mason University, and New York University, alongside leading Indian experts.
They provided a rich blend of global and local insights into the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, say sources from IIT Kanpur.
Welcome
Prof. Sandeep Shukla, Project Director, C3iHub, welcomed the gathering. He expressed optimism about the conference’s outcomes. As technology evolves, so do the threats, he said.
It is crucial that we stay ahead of adversaries by adopting cutting-edge innovations in cybersecurity, he said.
This conference provides a valuable platform for exchanging ideas that will help us achieve that goal, he said.
Keynote address
Lt Gen M U Nair delivered the keynote address. He said he was pleased to see C3iHub taking the initiative to organize this conference during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
Events like these play a crucial role in raising awareness about cybersecurity and contribute significantly to strengthening our cybersecurity ecosystem, he said speaking at IIT Kanpur.
‘I am confident that such efforts will go a long way in ensuring we keep pace with evolving technologies and address the challenges of the digital age.’
Collaboration
Dr. Gulshan Rai, Ex NCSC Ex DG Cert-In, spoke about the need for a collaborative and structural approach to tackling cyber threats.
The emerging technologies are bringing paradigm change and posing new types of challenges which require us to evolve a holistic approach.
The approach must be based on fusion between different stakeholders, including the strong back of Academia, he said speaking at the event at IIT Kanpur.
Digital growth
Dr. Ajay Kumar, former Defense Secretary, delivered an insightful talk on the ‘5 Cybersecurity Woes That Threaten Digital Growth.’
He emphasized the critical challenges facing the digital landscape, underscoring the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard the future of digital transformation.
Discussions
The discussions at the conference revolved around four critical domains, including Electronic Warfare, Post-Quantum Cryptography, Supply Chain Security, and Advanced Persistent Threats, say sources from IIT Kanpur.
These areas are essential for addressing both current and future challenges in cybersecurity.
Expert talks and panel discussions explored these topics in depth, allowing participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends, challenges, and solutions.
Unique feature
A unique feature of this event was its interactive element. #CCETC2024 hosted live demonstrations of indigenous cybersecurity products developed by C3iHub-supported R&D institutions and start-ups.
In addition, there was a Start-up Product Launch and a Start-up Pitch Battle, providing budding entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase their innovations to a panel of venture capitalists and industry leaders, say sources from IIT Kanpur.
Insights
The insights gathered during the conference would be consolidated into a white paper aimed at guiding future cybersecurity strategies and policy development, say sources from IIT Kanpur.
This comprehensive document will highlight key takeaways and provide actionable recommendations for both policymakers and industry stakeholders, positioning India as a leader in global cybersecurity advancements.
With the rising number of cybersecurity threats worldwide, #CCETC2024 seeks to foster meaningful discussions on real-world security incidents and explore innovative solutions that will shape the future of cybersecurity, say sources from IIT Kanpur.
Ultimately, this C3iHub conference is not just about raising awareness but about creating a roadmap for enhancing India’s digital safety through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and cutting-edge innovation, say sources from IIT Kanpur.
About IIT Kanpur
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, holds the distinction of being recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament.
Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades.