The National Cybersecurity Exercise – Bharat NCX 2025 was formally launched today by Deputy National Security Advisor Shri T. V. Ravichandran, in the presence of Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel, Vice Chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University. Organized by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) in association with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), the exercise represents a key milestone in enhancing India’s cyber defence capabilities under the central theme: “Enhancing the Operational Preparedness of Indian Cyberspace.”
Bharat NCX 2025 brings together a diverse group of cybersecurity experts, policymakers, defence personnel, and industry leaders from across the nation for a two-week hands-on training experience. The programme includes realistic simulations of cyberattacks—ranging from threats to critical infrastructure and deepfake manipulation to AI-driven malware responses and API security vulnerabilities—aimed at building robust, real-time response mechanisms.
In his keynote address, Shri Ravichandran highlighted that cybersecurity across vital sectors such as governance, healthcare, energy, transport, and defence plays a fundamental role in safeguarding national security, economic stability, citizen trust, and public safety. He stressed the value of conducting rigorous, real-world simulations, which Bharat NCX is specifically designed to deliver.
During his special address, Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel noted that over the last 20 years, cyber and AI technologies have become essential tools of national defence, transforming cyberspace into a battleground for geopolitical rivalry involving states and state-backed actors. He outlined the core goals of the initiative—proactive threat prevention, reduced vulnerability, and rapid, low-impact recovery following incidents.
Key Highlights of Bharat NCX 2025:
-
Immersive cyber defence training through high-intensity, live-fire attack simulations on IT and Operational Technology (OT) systems.
-
Emphasis on AI integration in cybersecurity and its role in evolving threat landscapes.
-
Enhanced coordination among government, private sector, and industry to build collective cyber resilience.
-
Promotion of cross-sector collaboration to address sophisticated and emerging cyber threats.
A specialized Strategic Decision-Making Exercise (STRATEX) will convene top-level leaders from various sectors to simulate national cyber crisis situations, sharpening their strategic thinking and response capabilities in high-stakes scenarios.
The CISO Conclave will unite Chief Information Security Officers from government bodies and industry to delve into cutting-edge developments in cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and Operational Technology, while fostering dialogue on emerging trends and policy advancements.
As part of the initiative, the Bharat Cybersecurity Startup Exhibition will spotlight innovative Indian startups pioneering cybersecurity solutions, underscoring their role in fortifying the country’s secure and self-reliant digital ecosystem.
By prioritizing leadership participation, inter-sector collaboration, and skill development, Bharat NCX 2025 underscores a cohesive and forward-thinking strategy to confront intelligent and evolving cyber threats.
Scheduled from July 21 to August 1, 2025, the event will conclude with a comprehensive debrief session aimed at distilling critical insights, assessing both operational and policy-level implications, and laying the groundwork for stronger national cyber resilience.
Bharat NCX 2025 reflects India’s resolute commitment to advancing its cyber capabilities through strategic, responsible, and united adoption of emerging technologies.