The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is taking significant steps to enhance its cybersecurity framework by forming a dedicated cybersecurity team under the leadership of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). This initiative aligns with a directive issued by the Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology order on December 10, 2024. The primary goal is to strengthen cybersecurity measures within the ministry, ensuring that all digital and technological infrastructure remains secure, compliant, and resilient against emerging cyber threats.
As the ministry continues to rely more on digital platforms, the adoption of renewable technologies and the shift towards digitization have made cybersecurity a critical aspect of its operations. Protecting sensitive data and resources is essential, and the new cybersecurity team will play a key role in establishing a robust security framework. Their responsibilities include ensuring compliance with national and international cybersecurity regulations and policies, defining a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy to mitigate risks associated with cyber threats, implementing security frameworks that safeguard digital assets, and monitoring cyber incidents that could impact the ministry’s operations.
The cybersecurity team will also focus on creating awareness within the ministry to promote a culture of cybersecurity. Training sessions will be conducted to educate staff on best practices, and continuous assessments will be carried out to identify and address vulnerabilities. The team’s scope of work includes risk assessment, implementation of advanced security tools, incident management, policy development, and continuous monitoring and reporting of cybersecurity activities.
Under the leadership of the CISO, the cybersecurity team will consist of key members, including the Deputy CISO, the Head of Department from the National Informatics Centre (NIC) posted at MNRE, the Director or Deputy Secretary of the Administration Division of MNRE, and the Director/Deputy Secretary, or Scientist D from the IT Division of MNRE, who will also serve as the Secretary of the Cyber Cell. The NIC cell at MNRE will provide technical support to the cybersecurity team, ensuring that the ministry has access to the latest security solutions and expertise.
This cybersecurity team will work closely with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s cybersecurity division to ensure that MNRE’s security framework aligns with national cybersecurity standards and guidelines. This collaboration will also help the team stay informed about evolving cyber threats and regulatory changes, allowing for timely updates and improvements to security policies.
The establishment of this dedicated cybersecurity team marks a significant step towards strengthening MNRE’s cybersecurity posture. By implementing a structured and proactive approach, the ministry aims to safeguard its digital infrastructure, protect critical data, and ensure that its renewable energy initiatives remain secure from potential cyber threats. This initiative has been approved by the Secretary of MNRE, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to maintaining a strong and resilient cybersecurity framework.
