Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Monday announced that a Cyber Security Research Centre shall be established across the state, underscoring the growing importance of data protection and cyber resilience in a fast-paced digital world. He made the announcement while inaugurating a consultative workshop on ‘Strengthening the Cyber Security Framework for State Data’ at the Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium in Bhopal.
CM Dr Yadav addressing the event
CM says MP prepared for digital challenges
In his address at the event, CM Dr Yadav said Madhya Pradesh is completely capable of tackling the challenges emerging in a rapidly changing technological landscape. He lauded the efforts of the Madhya Pradesh Police in combating cyber-crime and underlined that recent developments, including technological challenges witnessed during Operation Sindoor, have called for the need for robust cyber security mechanisms.
He further said Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has consistently demonstrated the ability to anticipate the imminent challenges and prepare administrative systems to address them effectively. According to him, PM Modi has played a pivotal role in alerting both the governments and society to emerging risks linked to technological advancement.
A still from the CM's address
Data security quite crucial, says CM
The Chief Minister then emphasised that data security has become as critical as border security in the digital age. He pointed to the success of the Jan Dhan Yojana and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism, saying that transparent digital systems have ensured that welfare benefits reach beneficiaries directly without their data being leaked.
He, however, cautioned that despite strong security shields, cyber crooks can cause significant financial losses by exploiting digital vulnerabilities. He asserted, “The loss of a lifetime’s savings through cyber fraud is deeply distressing.”
Representative image
Research centre to boost innovation
CM Dr Yadav thereafter announced a major step towards beefing up cyber security infrastructure, saying the proposed Cyber Security Research Centre will be laid in collaboration with the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE) situated in Mhow, as well as other academic institutions.
The centre is expected to serve as a hub for cyber security research, innovation, skill development and advanced monitoring systems, besides improving early detection of cyber threats and establishment of modern security frameworks capable of responding to evolving risks.
State govt committed to protecting data of citizens
CM Dr Yadav lighting the ceremonial lamp at the event
Principal Secretary, Science and Technology, M Selvendran said that MP has emerged as a leading state in delivering digital services and has received several national awards too, for technological innovation. He underlined that data breaches linked to utility services and urban local bodies often contribute to banking-related frauds, making data protection a priority.