Why the Issue Matters
Gujarat Strengthens Cyber Protection for Energy Systems: The increasing adoption of digital technologies in the power sector has transformed how electricity is generated, transmitted, and distributed. Systems such as smart meters, automated substations, and real-time monitoring have improved efficiency. However, this digital shift has also exposed energy infrastructure to cyber threats that can disrupt essential services.
Recognising these risks, the Government of Gujarat has initiated a structured response to protect its energy systems from cyber attacks. The move highlights the growing importance of cyber security in ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
Background of the Decision
The initiative has been taken by the Energy and Petrochemicals Department. The department oversees power generation, transmission, and distribution in the state. With Gujarat maintaining near 24×7 power availability, system reliability has become a strategic priority.
Static GK fact: Electricity is listed in the Concurrent List of the Indian Constitution, allowing both the Centre and States to frame policies related to the power sector.
Committees Constituted
To address cyber vulnerabilities, Gujarat has constituted two specialised bodies with clearly defined roles. These panels are designed to function together, ensuring both strategic oversight and operational execution.
Core Committee
The Core Committee consists of 11 members. Its primary role is to provide policy-level guidance for cyber security in the energy sector. It reviews existing frameworks, assesses preparedness, and evaluates long-term risks to power infrastructure.
The committee also examines how emerging threats could impact smart grids and interconnected power systems. Based on its findings, it suggests reforms to strengthen system resilience and governance mechanisms.
Task Force
The Task Force has 19 members and focuses on execution and coordination. It handles the technical and operational aspects of cyber protection. This includes supporting the rollout of cyber security tools, protocols, and response mechanisms across power utilities.
The Task Force also plays a key role in implementing recommendations made by the Core Committee. Its work bridges policy intent with ground-level action.
Key Responsibilities
Both panels are tasked with reviewing existing IT and cyber security arrangements in Gujarat’s energy sector. They will assess the state’s ability to detect, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents affecting power networks.
Another important responsibility is recommending updates to cyber security policies. This includes creating a clear roadmap for strengthening digital safeguards in energy infrastructure over the long term.
Static GK Tip: SCADA systems are used worldwide to monitor and control industrial processes, making them high-value targets in cyber warfare and sabotage.
Capacity Building and Awareness
A major focus of the initiative is capacity building. Regular cyber drills will be conducted to test system readiness and response time. These drills help identify gaps before real-world attacks occur.
Training programmes will be organised for officials and technical staff working in the power sector. The state also plans to collaborate with academic institutions and cyber security experts to improve skills and knowledge.
Coordination with state and national agencies is another priority. This ensures information sharing, early threat detection, and alignment with broader cyber security strategies.
Strategic Significance
The formation of dedicated cyber security panels reflects a shift from reactive responses to preventive governance. As power systems become more interconnected, a cyber incident in one part of the network can have cascading effects.
By institutionalising cyber oversight, Gujarat aims to protect not only infrastructure but also economic activity and public services that depend on reliable electricity supply.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Gujarat Strengthens Cyber Protection for Energy Systems:
| Topic | Detail |
| Why in News? | Gujarat constituted panels to protect energy infrastructure from cyber attacks |
| Committees Formed | 11-member Core Committee and 19-member Task Force |
| Nodal Department | Energy and Petrochemicals Department of Gujarat |
| Key Systems Covered | Smart grids, SCADA systems, power networks |
| Major Actions | Policy review, cyber drills, training, awareness programmes |
| Governance Approach | Strategic oversight combined with operational execution |
| Broader Goal | Long-term cyber resilience of critical energy infrastructure |
