India Boosts Cybersecurity: 269 New CERT-In Hires Urged
By Technology Desk
Parliamentary committee urges MeitY to fast-track hiring of 269 cybersecurity roles for CERT-In, addressing escalating digital threats to India’s national security.
India’s cybersecurity defense is set for a significant boost, with a parliamentary committee urging the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to expedite the hiring of 269 new positions for the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In).
This push comes amidst a rising tide of cybersecurity threats, making these roles crucial for national digital safety.
Key Hiring Figures
- New CERT-In positions approved: 269
- Scientist-B vacancies recently filled: 7
- Scientist-B posts in advanced recruitment: 133
- Scientist-F officer proposals awaiting approval: 5
The finance ministry initially approved these 269 roles, but the recruitment process has been ongoing. This delay prompted the parliamentary committee to press MeitY for faster action, directly linking the urgency to the increasing cybersecurity challenges facing the nation.
Attracting Talent for IndiaAI Mission
Beyond direct cybersecurity roles, the IndiaAI Mission’s fellowship program also faced hurdles in attracting applicants. MeitY identified a significant lack of awareness as the primary reason for this initial struggle.
To counter this, MeitY has initiated proactive measures.
- Launched outreach programs with colleges.
- Conducted awareness campaigns during the AI Impact Summit 2026.
The panel is currently seeking updates on the effectiveness of these recent initiatives.
Progress in Filling Critical Roles
The newly approved 269 positions span across scientific, technical, and administrative domains within CERT-In. MeitY confirmed that recruitment rules for Group A Scientist-B to Scientist-F positions are now finalized.
Meanwhile, progress continues on other key hirings.
- Seven Scientist-B vacancies from a previous drive have been successfully filled.
- Recruitment for another 133 Scientist-B posts is in an advanced stage, with advertisements expected soon.
- A proposal for 5 Scientist-F officers is also awaiting final approval.
Rules for other scientific roles are under active review before job advertisements can be released.
For early-career professionals in technology, these developments signal a clear and urgent demand for cybersecurity and AI talent. The government’s focus on filling these critical roles underscores the growing importance of digital defense in India’s economy.