Pune, August 9, 2025 — In a significant stride for national cybersecurity, the Ministry of Home Affairs today unveiled an advanced training programme for specialized “cyber commandos” at the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) in Pune, a DRDO-affiliated deemed university. Designed to empower law enforcement with fortified skills against AI-powered cyber threats, this training marks India’s proactive defence against evolving digital crimes.
A Targeted Response to Rising AI-Powered Cybercrime
India’s cyber threat landscape is rapidly evolving. According to a 2025 GIREM report, AI technologies now fuel approximately 82.6% of phishing attacks, including the generation of authentic-looking emails, deceptive domains, and advanced phishing webpages. The Times of India These alarming figures prompted the MHA to collaborate with DIAT to equip law enforcement personnel with cutting-edge capabilities to identify, intercept, and neutralize such threats.
Training Format & Curriculum
The six-month residential course, now refreshed to tackle AI-specific cybercrime, includes multiple modules focused on:
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AI-generated deepfakes
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Automated phishing campaigns
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Identity spoofing
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Algorithmic attacks on critical infrastructure
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Manipulation of real-time data streams
The curriculum is co-developed by eight DIAT professors alongside DRDO scientists and cybersecurity experts, ensuring a blend of academic rigor and real-world practical exposure. Simulated case scenarios are integral to the training, allowing participants to test their skills in realistic, high-pressure environments. The Times of India
First Batch Proves Its Worth in the Field
The first cohort of 30 cyber commandos, hailing notably from the Jammu & Kashmir Police, completed their training in May and were deployed during Operation Sindoor. Their contributions highlighted both the effectiveness of the curriculum and the operational value these commandos bring to the nation’s cybersecurity efforts.
Benefits and Identified Challenges
Advantages:
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Strengthened capacity to fight complex AI-enabled cyber threats
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Centralization of advanced cyber expertise within law enforcement
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Establishment of a scalable training pipeline for future batches
Challenges:
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Low pass rates among Maharashtra Police applicants, attributed to gaps in theoretical knowledge, underscore the need for improved foundational training. The Times of India
Strategic Context & Broader Initiative
This initiative is part of a broader national approach to modernize cyber defense. Earlier, the MHA had earmarked DIAT as one of ten designated institutions across India for cyber commando training, aligning with a nationwide plan to train 5,000 officers over five years. especially as AI becomes a pervasive tool in cybercriminal arsenals.
Voices from the Field
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Dr. Manisha Nene, Head of DIAT’s Computer Science Department:
“As cybercrimes rapidly evolve due to integration of advanced AI tools in criminal activities, we have updated the syllabus… We will train them on how to investigate these AI tools used in criminal cases.” PR Newswire+3The Indian Express+3The Times of India+3The Times of India -
Sanjay Shintre, DIG, Maharashtra Cyber Cell:
“…highly trained police personnel are crucial… These trained cyber commandos will become valuable assets… very few personnel from Maharashtra Police were able to pass… due to lack of theoretical knowledge.”
What Lies Ahead
Looking forward, scaling up the number of cyber commandos, enhancing theoretical training in state police academies, and continuing real-world assessments will be essential. As India braces against increasingly sophisticated AI-enabled cyber threats, this initiative could shape the future of national digital resilience.
