Union Budget 2025 Increases Cybersecurity Funding | AI, CERT-In, and Digital Infrastructure Boost

Table of Contents

• Cybersecurity Budget Increased to ₹1,900 Crore
• Key Highlights from the Budget 2025
•  Why It Matters
• Focus on AI, Innovation and Digital Growth
• Challenges Still Ahead
• India’s Growing Role in Cybersecurity
•  In Summary
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

As the digital world grows, so do cyber threats. From online fraud to data breaches, India has seen a huge rise in cybercrime. The Union Budget 2025 takes this seriously—and that’s good news for the country’s safety and future in technology.

 Cybersecurity Budget Increased to ₹1,900 Crore

This year, the government has allocated ₹1,900 crore for cybersecurity, up from ₹1,600 crore in 2024. Why is this important? Because 67.8% of all cybercrime complaints are linked to online fraud—and that’s a serious threat to people’s money and the country’s security.

 Key Highlights from the Budget 2025

 Why It Matters

India has become a global hotspot for digital frauds and deepfakes. Even Prime Minister Modi spoke about ₹11,300 crore lost in online trading scams, and President Droupadi Murmu highlighted growing risks in her Parliament address.

These new investments aim to:

• Protect personal and national data

• Improve AI-based threat detection

• Train more cybersecurity experts

• Strengthen India’s global tech leadership

  
  

 Focus on AI, Innovation and Digital Growth

One of the biggest moves in this budget is the ₹900 crore allocation to NM-ICPS, which will support AI, quantum computing, and next-gen cybersecurity. The government also announced:

• AI Centers of Excellence for education and R&D

• ₹500 crore for AI in Education

• Support for startups, skilling programs, and digital transformation

What Industry Leaders Say

Dr. Kailash Katkar (Quick Heal): “This is a bold step to make India a global tech leader. But as AI grows, so do the risks. Cybersecurity is more important than ever.”

Parag Khurana (Barracuda Networks): “The push for AI and innovation is great, but India also needs strong cybersecurity to protect its expanding digital infrastructure.”

Vishal Salvi (Quick Heal): “We’re proud of the budget’s focus on people, innovation, and technology. But along with digital growth, data privacy and IT protection must stay a top priority.”

Challenges Still Ahead

While the budget has promising allocations, experts warn that sustained efforts are needed. This includes:

• Policy reforms for better cyber laws

• Public awareness to avoid scams

• Trained professionals to fill the cybersecurity skill gap

 India’s Growing Role in Cybersecurity

India now ranks Tier-1 in the Global Cybersecurity Index, showing its rising influence in digital defense. With continued investment, India is on track to become a global hub for AI, cybersecurity, and digital innovation.

 In Summary

The Union Budget 2025 strengthens India’s fight against cybercrime. By investing in cutting-edge technologies, building secure digital systems, and supporting skill development, the government is laying a strong foundation for a safer, smarter digital India.

Whether you're a student, a business owner, or a tech professional—this is the right time to focus on AI, cybersecurity, and digital skills.

FAQs

What is the total cybersecurity allocation in Union Budget 2025?

The government has allocated ₹1,900 crore for cybersecurity in 2025, an increase from ₹1,600 crore in 2024.

How much has been allocated to the NM-ICPS initiative in 2025?

The NM-ICPS program received ₹900 crore in 2025 to support AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity research.

What is CERT-In, and how much funding did it get in 2025?

CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) is the agency for monitoring and responding to cyber threats. It received ₹255 crore in this budget.

How is India addressing AI in the 2025 budget?

The government announced AI Centers of Excellence and ₹500 crore for AI innovation in education.

Why did funding for women and child cyber protection drop in 2025?

The allocation dropped from ₹52.85 crore to ₹44.39 crore. No official reason has been given, but it raises concerns about vulnerable user protection.

How much has India lost to cyber fraud, according to PM Modi?

PM Modi stated that ₹11,300 crore was lost due to stock trading scams and impersonation.

What is NM-ICPS?

The National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) is a program aimed at advancing AI, robotics, and cybersecurity.

Has funding for cybersecurity capital projects increased in 2025?

Yes, funding rose slightly to ₹782 crore in 2025 from ₹759 crore last year.

What is the government's plan for AI education?

The budget includes ₹500 crore to establish AI Centers of Excellence in the education sector.

How does this budget affect cybersecurity jobs?

With new funding and AI initiatives, more jobs will open up in cybersecurity, AI development, and digital infrastructure.

What did President Murmu say about cyber threats?

President Murmu warned about deepfakes, online fraud, and the urgency of cybersecurity improvements in her Parliamentary address.

What does India’s Tier-1 cybersecurity ranking mean?

It signifies India's strong global standing in cybersecurity preparedness and response, as ranked by the Global Cybersecurity Index.

What are the concerns raised by industry leaders?

Experts say more needs to be done in terms of policy reform, awareness, and cyber law enforcement despite higher funding.

Is India investing in rural digital infrastructure?

Yes, the budget supports projects like broadband in rural areas, but experts warn they must be secured with robust cybersecurity.

How is Quick Heal involved in India’s cybersecurity vision?

Quick Heal's leaders praised the budget for its AI, digital innovation, and cybersecurity investments and pledged their continued support.

What role does Barracuda Networks play in this context?

Their India Country Manager emphasized that more digital transformation means a bigger attack surface—making cybersecurity essential.

What does the ₹500 crore AI education fund mean for students?

It’s a huge opportunity for students to gain AI and cybersecurity skills, helping them prepare for high-demand tech careers.

How does this budget align with India’s AI goals?

It shows a clear push for AI leadership with skill development, infrastructure funding, and innovation support.

Why is cybersecurity critical now more than ever?

As digital adoption accelerates, the threat landscape grows. Sophisticated cyberattacks now target both individuals and national systems.

Is India ready for global AI competition?

Yes, this budget demonstrates India's readiness by focusing on AI excellence, R&D, and infrastructure.

What’s the future of digital finance security in India?

Stronger investments in CERT-In and capital projects suggest enhanced security for fintech, digital wallets, and banking platforms.

How does AI affect cybersecurity?

AI can both improve threat detection and create new risks. The budget supports using AI as a defense mechanism through NM-ICPS.

What is the importance of public awareness in cybersecurity?

Without public education, even the best systems fail. Experts are pushing for awareness campaigns alongside technical improvements.

Are there any cybersecurity scholarships or training programs planned?

While not detailed in the budget, the AI Centers of Excellence are expected to offer training and certifications.

What should businesses take away from Budget 2025?

Businesses must invest in cybersecurity tools, compliance, and upskilling to align with national standards and reduce cyber risks.

Does this budget support startups in cybersecurity?

Yes, the innovation-driven budget provides a foundation for cybersecurity and AI startups to grow with government backing.

Will cyber laws be updated in India soon?

Though not specified in the budget, experts recommend reforms to keep up with evolving threats and technologies.

How can students benefit from this budget?

They can enroll in AI and cybersecurity programs supported by the government’s education and innovation investments.

What is the role of PM Gati Shakti in digital infrastructure?

Gati Shakti focuses on seamless connectivity and infrastructure, which includes secure digital systems.

How will this budget impact rural cyber safety?

With broader internet access in rural areas, there’s a greater need for awareness and secure digital platforms.

What is the long-term vision of India’s cybersecurity investment?

To build a secure, innovative, AI-driven digital economy that can handle the global cybersecurity challenges of the future.