Bharat NCX 2025 cybersecurity exercise kicks off to boost national cyber preparedness

New Delhi, Jul 21: The National Cybersecurity Exercise,  Bharat NCX 2025 was officially inaugurated today by Deputy National Security Advisor T.V. Ravichandran, in the presence of Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel, Vice Chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU). The two-week exercise, being conducted by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) in collaboration with RRU, aims to bolster India's operational preparedness in cyberspace under the theme “Enhancing the Operational Preparedness of Indian Cyberspace.” Bharat NCX 2025 brings together cybersecurity professionals, policymakers, defence personnel, and industry leaders from across the country for realistic simulations of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.

Scenarios include deepfake threats, autonomous malware response, and API security breaches.

Key components of the programme include live-fire simulations targeting both IT and Operational Technology (OT) systems, a Strategic Decision-Making Exercise (STRATEX) for senior leadership, and a CISO Conclave focusing on emerging trends in AI and cybersecurity policy. A Cybersecurity Startup Exhibition will also showcase innovations by Indian startups contributing to a secure and self-reliant digital infrastructure. Running from July 21 to August 1, the exercise will conclude with a comprehensive debriefing to assess key lessons and shape future strategies for national cyber resilience. Bharat NCX 2025 underscores India’s growing commitment to proactive, collaborative, and technologically advanced cyber defence.