1 lakh youth set to gain cutting-edge skills in cybersecurity, AI

A cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) training initiative aimed at strengthening India’s digital ecosystem was launched here on Tuesday.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by representatives of Citizen Force, TEMA, CMAI, and CSAI to jointly implement the programme, which seeks to train more than one lakh youth in cybersecurity and AI.

Addressing the gathering, City Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi expressed concern over the rising incidence of cybercrime and called for greater awareness among citizens, particularly the youth. He urged them to exercise caution in their online activities and on social media platforms. He also assured that the police department would extend support to awareness campaigns and specialised training programmes to counter cyber threats.

Cybersecurity expert NK Goyal said cybersecurity had become as critical as national security. He emphasised that equipping young people with the necessary skills would enable India to emerge as a global hub for cybersecurity professionals. The training modules, he noted, are aligned with international standards to enhance global competitiveness.

Citizen Force CMD P. Ramesh Babu said the initiative is in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to equip youth with skills in emerging technologies.

The programme saw participation from academic and legal experts, including Y Satyanarayana, P Umamaheswari, G Srinivasa Rao, K Sivaramakrishna, and PVN Rajiv, indicating support from the education and legal sectors.

The organisers said the initiative would include training programmes, workshops, and certification courses designed to build practical skills in cybersecurity and AI among participants.