Guardians of the Grid: India’s Vision for a Peaceful Cyberspace
In an exclusive interview with the delegate of India to UNGA DISEC, we explore
the nation’s strategic approach to cyber disarmament, digital diplomacy, and
international cooperation. From legislative safeguards to global partnerships,
India outlines its commitment to building a secure, inclusive, and rights-respecting
digital future.
The delegate of India with the journalist (Source: JUMUN Archives)
PRESS: Good Afternoon Sir, we are glad to have you on board.
DELEGATE: Good Afternoon. I'm ready for the interview
PRESS: Can you briefly explain India’s stance on the militarization and disarmament of
cyberspace?
DELEGATE: India has been the target of numerous state-sponsored cyber actions, and
investigations have shown the growing threat such actions pose. The delegate emphasized that
India supports the establishment of a global framework aimed at reducing militarization in
cyberspace. India believes that through structured resolutions and collaboration within the
committee, a proper framework can be developed to prevent future cyberattacks.
PRESS: What measures has India implemented to prevent the misuse of cyberspace within its
borders?
DELEGATE: India has enacted several domestic legislations to combat cybercrime. The key
law is the Information Technology (IT) Act of 2000, along with related regulatory updates. The
Right to Information (RTI) Act has also been addressed to prevent misuse by non-state actors.
India is focusing on building a secure and robust digital legal system.
PRESS: Is India in favor of a binding international treaty on cyberspace disarmament or
would it prefer a voluntary framework?
DELEGATE: India supports a global consensus-based framework that is inclusive, fair, and
respects both national security and human rights. The delegate emphasized that while India
supports binding commitments, the process must involve equity among nations.
PRESS: What role does India envision for the UN in promoting responsible state behavior in
cyberspace?
DELEGATE: India believes the United Nations should take the lead in establishing norms and
regulations to prevent cyber conflicts. The delegate highlighted cyber threats from non-state
actors and adversarial nations, particularly Pakistan and China, and called for a framework
that ensures compliance with international law and respects human rights.
PRESS: How has India’s dual role as a target and contributor in cyberspace influenced its
policies?
DELEGATE: India actively participates in global cyber diplomacy to promote international
cooperation. The delegate mentioned India’s cyber resilience partnerships with ASEAN and the
African Union, as well as its role in founding the Global South Digital Fund alongside Brazil
and South Africa. India also shares digital infrastructure solutions like Aadhaar, UPI, and
CoWIN with developing countries to enhance digital governance. Being a cyberattack target has
motivated India to improve domestic frameworks and advocate for stronger international
regulations.
PRESS: Does India support Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) between states in the
cyber domain? Can you name any that India has participated in?
DELEGATE: Yes, India strongly supports CBMs. The delegate referred to partnerships with
ASEAN and African Union, the Global South Digital Fund, and the promotion of digital public
infrastructure models. India encourages other countries to improve their domestic legal and
cybersecurity frameworks while global norms are being formed. Institutions like Computer
Emergency Response Team – India (CERT-In) are already in place to monitor and respond to
cyber threats effectively.
PRESS: Final thoughts on the potential for cyber disarmament?
DELEGATE: The delegate acknowledged that while cyber disarmament is a desirable goal,
achieving it immediately is challenging. Some major powers may be unwilling to cooperate, and
creating universal norms takes time. India urges immediate domestic reforms by individual
nations and continued international cooperation to address cyber threats.
