India jumps to Tier 1 in Global CyberSecurity Index 2024 [Current Affairs]

India has jumped to Tier 1 in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), when it comes to role-modeling as part of the country’s cybersecurity commitments and resulting impacts.

What is it?

The Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) is a trusted reference that measures the commitment of countries to cybersecurity at a global level to raise awareness of the importance and different dimensions of the issue. As cybersecurity has a broad field of application, cutting across many industries and various sectors.

Pillars of assessment

• 1. Legal Measures
• 2. Technical Measures
• 3. Organizational Measures
• 4. Capacity Development
• 5. Cooperation

India’s Performance

• India has claimed a spot in the Tier-1 category in the latest Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). 
• With a rank of 98.49, India is one of the 47 countries that has been adjudged as a leading nation which has demonstrated commitment to robust cyber security practices.
• The GCI found India taking strong actionable cyber security measures in all these crucial areas.

Measures which boost India’s Performance

• According to the GCI 2024 report, India excelled in the legal pillar, establishing a robust framework of laws and regulations to govern cybersecurity. 
• The Information Technology Act (2000) and its amendments hold significant weight in this regard, outlining measures to combat cybercrime, protect critical infrastructure, and ensure data privacy.
• Additionally, the passage of the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill (2022) further strengthens India’s legal framework, providing enhanced safeguards for citizen data.

India’s Score in each pillar

• 1. Legal Measures – 20
• 2. Technical Measures – 20
• 3. Organizational Measures – 18.49
• 4. Capacity Development – 20
• 5. Cooperation – 20 

Each Category is given a score out of 20.

Challenges for India

• Demands continuous vigilance and adaptation
• Bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to cybersecurity resources
• Fostering a culture of cyber hygiene and raising public awareness
• Continuous improvement in legal frameworks
• Investment in cutting-edge technology

Tier 1 countries

Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Egypt, United States, Iceland, Greece, Sweden, Portugal, Qatar, Norway, Turkiye, United Kingdom and a total of 47 countries make it to the list of Tier 1 countries.