Cybersecurity is an economic imperative for the government: IT Secretary N. Manjula

In a move aimed at aligning with global tech trends and fostering youth engagement, the Government of Karnataka hosted a Cyber Dialogue on Wednesday, bringing together cybersecurity experts, startups, and Israeli delegates to discuss collaborative opportunities in digital security, innovation, and talent development. The event, organized under the theme “Stronger Together. Secure Tomorrow,” emphasized the growing importance of cybersecurity as both an economic and governance priority. N. Manjula, Secretary of the Department of Electronics, IT, and BT in Karnataka, underscored this during her address, stating that cybersecurity had evolved from being solely a technical concern to a foundational element of digital trust and economic growth. The Cyber Dialogue was co-hosted by the Government of Karnataka and the Consulate General of Israel in South India. It marked a significant step in Karnataka's efforts to strengthen its international technology partnerships through its Global Innovation Alliance (GIA). The event attracted over 10 Israeli cybersecurity firms, who engaged in detailed discussions with Indian counterparts on topics ranging from innovation and startup collaboration to policy frameworks and talent development. These interactions extended beyond formal talks, with technology demonstrations and business-to-business meetings facilitating direct engagement between participants. Senior officials from both the Karnataka government and the Israeli delegation attended the event, highlighting the strategic significance of the partnership. Dr. Manjula elaborated on how the GIA enables the state to engage with other nations on shared interests, particularly in technology and innovation. She noted that the Karnataka-Israel collaboration offered unique opportunities to leverage Israel’s expertise in cybersecurity alongside India’s vast talent pool and technological capabilities. This synergy, she argued, could lead to impactful innovations that benefit not just the two countries but also the broader global community. Orli Weitzman, Consul General of Israel to South India, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the deep cultural and intellectual parallels between India and Israel. Both nations, she pointed out, have a strong tradition of problem-solving, education, and entrepreneurship. In the field of cybersecurity, these similarities create fertile ground for collaboration. Weitzman added that the convergence of Israeli technology and Indian talent presents a powerful combination capable of driving meaningful advancements in digital security and infrastructure resilience. The discussions at the event were structured around four core themes: Innovation and Startups, Industry Partnerships, Talent and Skills Development, and Policy and Trust. Participants explored ways to translate knowledge sharing into tangible collaborations, aiming to enhance the security of critical digital infrastructure, businesses, and public institutions. The focus on practical outcomes was evident throughout the day, with sessions dedicated to identifying specific projects and initiatives that could be pursued jointly. The event also included interactive components such as technology showcases and networking sessions, allowing attendees to explore potential synergies and establish new connections. These activities were designed to facilitate long-term partnerships and foster a sustainable ecosystem for cybersecurity innovation in the region. The involvement of the Centre for Cybersecurity Karnataka (CySecK) further reinforced the commitment to building a robust local framework for addressing emerging cyber threats and challenges. As the dialogue concluded, all parties expressed optimism about the future of Indo-Israeli cooperation in cybersecurity. With both sides recognizing the mutual benefits of their collaboration, the groundwork has been laid for continued engagement and joint ventures in the coming months. The success of this event is likely to influence similar initiatives, reinforcing Karnataka’s position as a hub for technological innovation and international collaboration.