India needs proactive govt support in AI for national security, says report

A recent report by Nexgen Exhibitions emphasizes the pressing need for government incentives and significant investment in artificial intelligence (AI) to bolster India's cybersecurity and border security measures. Conducted across more than 200 companies in 15 cities, the survey reveals that a striking 86% of participants believe that proactive governmental support is essential for integrating AI into national security strategies. As India faces escalating challenges related to electronic and information warfare, AI is increasingly recognized as a crucial component in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty. According to industry estimates, the year 2024 witnessed over 2.3 million cybersecurity incidents in India, resulting in financial damages amounting to ₹1,200 crore due to cyberattacks. Notably, India ranks third in the world for phishing attacks, trailing only the United States and Russia. The report also indicates that approximately 14% of respondents advocate for public-private partnerships (PPPs) to foster AI innovation in defense. They argue that PPPs can effectively bridge the gap in AI development within the sector, promoting ethical and responsible technology integration. Moreover, the document highlights significant policy gaps that need addressing by both stakeholders and the government to maximize AI's potential in enhancing national security. A crucial point raised is the lack of a national AI security framework tailored specifically for defense applications, which is vital for establishing strong security protocols. Nexgen Exhibitions has announced that Delhi will host the 10th International Police Expo 2025 from July 31 to August 1, focusing on fortifying the country’s internal security and policing infrastructure. Aadhar Bansal, Director of Nexgen Exhibitions, remarked that the expo will provide a prominent platform to showcase innovative solutions in security and technology, reiterating the urgent need for collaborative government support in AI to strengthen national security.