India is making a major move to combine artificial intelligence with cybersecurity by launching the new Certified Security Professional for Artificial Intelligence (CSPAI) program. This key initiative, developed through a partnership between CERT-In, MeitY, and SISA, aims to train professionals to handle modern AI-driven security threats. The program is designed to strengthen India’s digital defenses and build a highly skilled cyber workforce.
A Closer Look at India’s First ANAB-Accredited AI Security Certification
The CSPAI program is a significant achievement, marking India’s first ANAB-accredited certification in the field of AI security. This certification places India in a strong position to become a global leader in both AI and cybersecurity.
According to Dharshan Shanthamurthy, the Founder-CEO of SISA, this certification represents a monumental step forward. The primary goal is to equip security professionals with advanced skills to protect sensitive data from new and evolving digital threats. The program focuses on practical applications and sustainable security measures.
Key areas covered by the CSPAI program include:
- Securely integrating artificial intelligence into various business applications.
- Establishing and maintaining sustainable cybersecurity practices for the long term.
- Developing strategies to counter AI-specific threats, such as adversarial attacks.
This comprehensive approach ensures that certified professionals are prepared for the real-world challenges of securing AI systems.
Cyber Nalanda: Forging a Resilient Cybersecurity Ecosystem
Alongside the CSPAI program, India has launched another ambitious project called Cyber Nalanda. Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General of CERT-In, explains that this initiative is designed to tackle global cybersecurity challenges by promoting collaboration between industry leaders and academic institutions.
The main goal of Cyber Nalanda is to foster innovation and build a strong talent pipeline. By developing more ANAB-accredited certification programs, the initiative aims to prepare professionals to meet the massive global demand for cybersecurity experts. It also encourages research and development in next-generation technologies like 6G and quantum computing. This forward-thinking approach will help create a robust framework to support both national and international security needs.
Bridging the AI Workforce Gap in a Growing Market
India’s influence in the global AI landscape is expanding quickly, thanks to significant government investment in digital infrastructure. Large funds have been allocated to advance AI, IoT, and cybersecurity, positioning the country as a major player.
Dr. Bahl noted that India has been ranked first globally for AI skill penetration, which shows the country’s strong commitment to developing a skilled workforce. The CSPAI program is expected to build on this momentum, preparing professionals for over one million AI-related jobs projected by 2026.
Sector-Specific AI Investment and Growth
| Sector | Investment (2020) | Expected Growth Areas |
|---|---|---|
| BFSI | $477 million | Data analytics, fraud detection, cybersecurity |
| Manufacturing | $300 million | Automation, AI-driven efficiency |
| Healthcare | $200 million | AI diagnostics, data security |
To meet this demand, customized upskilling programs tailored to different industries will be crucial.
Future Innovations and Research in AI Security
Looking ahead, artificial intelligence is set to completely change how organizations protect their digital assets. Dharshan Shanthamurthy believes AI will be essential for advanced anomaly detection and predictive threat modeling, allowing for more proactive security measures.
India’s vibrant startup ecosystem is a key driver of this innovation. Dr. Bahl highlights that these startups are creating cutting-edge solutions across many sectors. This progress is further supported by the ongoing IndiaAI Mission, which aims to build a strong AI ecosystem through strategic partnerships and initiatives. The mission focuses on democratizing AI technology and making it accessible to all.
