Cyber Security Challenges in India's Digital Public Infrastructure Highlighted

At an ICRIER event on May 8, 2026, Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran discussed the challenges facing India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). He emphasized that while India's DPI has reached a world-class scale, issues related to digital access, data governance, interoperability, and cyber security persist. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those in poorly connected areas, struggle to access digital services. Nageswaran noted that the legislative framework for data sharing is still evolving and that interoperability across states is a work in progress. He highlighted the need for sustained institutional attention to cyber security as threats continue to evolve. The JAM Trinity, which includes Jan Dhan accounts, Aadhaar authentication, and mobile connectivity, has improved service delivery but also requires ongoing vigilance against cyber threats.

Key Points: • India's Digital Public Infrastructure faces significant cyber security challenges. • Vulnerable populations, especially the elderly and those in remote areas, lack access to digital services. • Ongoing efforts are needed to enhance data governance and interoperability across states.