India releases roadmap for quantum-safe cybersecurity

By Admin

12 Jul, 2025

In a decisive move to fortify the nation’s digital future, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has released a whitepaper titled “Transitioning to Quantum Cyber Readiness”, laying out India’s strategic approach to quantum-safe cybersecurity. This initiative comes as part of the government’s commitment to shield the country’s expanding digital economy from the emerging threats posed by quantum computing.

Quantum Threats to Modern Encryption

India’s digital transformation   from widespread digital payments to e-governance   has brought cybersecurity to the forefront. As quantum computing rapidly evolves from theoretical models to practical application, its potential to disrupt current encryption systems like RSA and ECC has become a critical concern. Experts warn that these conventional methods could be rendered obsolete within the decade.

A Strategic Imperative

At the whitepaper launch in Delhi, MeitY Secretary S Krishnan emphasized the need for proactive readiness. “Quantum readiness is a strategic imperative as we prepare for the disruptive potential of quantum technologies,” he stated, highlighting the urgency of embedding resilience in ICT infrastructure with clarity and agility.

The whitepaper, launched in collaboration with CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) and cybersecurity firm SISA, offers a clear roadmap for identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities in current encryption systems   particularly those protecting sensitive data, national security assets, and public services.

Key Recommendations and Sector Prioritization

The roadmap outlines several critical steps:

• Risk analysis and vulnerability identification in existing cryptographic systems.
  
  

• Adoption of quantum-resistant algorithms that align with global post-quantum standards.
  
  

• Updating security frameworks without disrupting current operations.
  
  

• Prioritization of critical sectors like finance, defence, and healthcare for early migration.
  
  

According to Sanjay Bahl, Director General of CERT-In, the transition is urgent: “Quantum computing will fundamentally change the threat landscape. Our partnership with SISA is a prime example of how public-private collaboration is essential in anticipating emerging threats.”

Industry Perspective and Practical Guidance

Dharshan Shanthamurthy, CEO of SISA, called this shift the most significant in cybersecurity in three decades. “Quantum computing isn’t just about speed  it redefines the limits of computation. Legacy encryption systems were never built for this reality, and are therefore vulnerable by design,” he warned.

The whitepaper is designed not just as a technical manual but also as a strategic guide for regulated industries like BFSI, healthcare, and government. It helps organizations begin their quantum-safe migration while ensuring compliance and business continuity.

CERT-In and SISA: Enabling the Transition

CERT-In will play a central role in issuing actionable guidelines and coordinating responses to emerging quantum threats under the IT Act. Meanwhile, SISA’s forensic and security expertise will support enterprises in protecting sensitive data during this transition to post-quantum security.

India Joins the Global Quantum Race

With this release, India signals its intent to be at the forefront of global efforts in quantum cybersecurity. By preparing early, the nation not only protects its digital infrastructure but also positions itself as a leader in shaping the future of secure digital systems in a post-quantum world.