C3iHub, A Cybersecurity Technology Innovation Hub at IIT Kanpur, has successfully concluded a 12-week intensive cybersecurity training program for the Headquarters Central Command (HQCC) of the Indian Army, based in Lucknow. The initiative has equipped 70 Army professionals with critical skills to counter modern digital threats, bolstering India's defense capabilities.

The program, which catered to both foundational and expert levels, trained 40 personnel in a Basic track and 30 in an Advanced track. The curriculum was meticulously designed and delivered by C3iHub experts in a hybrid mode, blending instructor-led offline classes with online demonstrations and labs.

A valedictory and felicitation ceremony was held at HQCC Lucknow last Saturday to mark the program's conclusion. The event was graced by Brigadier Shalabh Gupta and other senior officials from HQCC, alongside Dr. Tanima Hajra, COO and Interim CEO - C3iHub , faculty and leadership from C3iHub, who commended the participants on their successful completion of the rigorous training.

In an official statement on X, HQCC (@suryacommand) added, "This training is a testament to the growing synergy between the Armed Forces and leading academic institutions, crucial for meeting demands of #futurewars. The comprehensive curriculum designed to equip the participants with advanced skills, will foster a dedicated pool of cyber warriors for resilient cyber defence."

The training program was tailored specifically for military operations, focusing on mission-critical readiness and digital resilience. Key areas of study included:

• Network Security Fundamentals
• Malware Analysis Techniques
• Digital Forensics & Incident Response (DFIR)
• Applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Cybersecurity

Hands-on Lab Sessions & Simulation-based Tactical Cyber Drills

"Our collaboration with the Indian Army's Central Command is a testament to our unwavering commitment to securing India's critical digital infrastructure. By equipping our defense personnel with state-of-the-art cyber defense skills, we are not just training them; we are investing in the nation's digital sovereignty and resilience." said Dr. Tanima Hajra, COO and Interim CEO C3iHub, IIT Kanpur.

“We are proud to have conducted an Advanced Cybersecurity Training Program for personnel of the Indian Army, delivered by experts from C3iHub, IIT Kanpur. At C3iHub, we remain committed to supporting our armed forces with cutting-edge cybersecurity training to protect the nation’s critical infrastructure” said Dr. Anand Handa Senior Vice President, C3iHub, IIT Kanpur

This initiative underscores C3iHub’s strategic objective to enhance cybersecurity readiness across India's critical defense infrastructures and government establishments, ensuring the nation is prepared for the challenges of the digital age.

About C3iHub, IIT Kanpur:

C3iHub is a Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) upgraded to Technology Translational Research Park (TTRP) and established at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems. C3iHub addresses the cybersecurity of cyber-physical systems in its entirety. C3iHub detects security vulnerabilities in critical cyber-physical systems, develops security tools to address the vulnerabilities, nucleates start-ups and partners with industries to commercialize the security tools, and provides training to the next generation of cybersecurity researchers.

About Headquarters Central Command, Indian Army:

Headquartered in Lucknow, the Central Command is one of the seven operational commands of the Indian Army. It is responsible for safeguarding the nation's central sector and plays a pivotal role in national security and defense operations.

About IIT Kanpur:

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, is recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has significantly contributed to research and development over the decades. Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts various academic and research resources. The institute comprises 19 departments, 26 centers, three interdisciplinary programs, and three specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines. With over 590 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur fosters innovation and academic rigor.

For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in.