PUNE: Union minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Friday said collaboration among the government, academia, industry and research institutions is essential to build a robust automotive cybersecurity ecosystem in India as connected and software-defined vehicles become increasingly common.
Gadkari made the remarks while virtually inaugurating the “Automotive Cybersecurity Principals Meet 2026”, organised in Pune by the Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT) and partner organisations.
He said automotive cybersecurity is now directly linked to road safety, public safety, national security and consumer confidence.
“Cybersecurity is no longer limited to protecting vehicles alone. It has become a critical pillar of safe and reliable mobility, and stronger collaboration is essential to build a resilient automotive cybersecurity ecosystem for India,” he said.
The programme focused on building a talent pipeline for the country’s rapidly evolving automotive cybersecurity sector. Experts said modern vehicles are increasingly powered by software, artificial intelligence and connected technologies, creating demand for professionals with specialised cybersecurity skills. The initiative aims to bridge this gap through industry-academia collaboration, hands-on learning, advanced laboratories and vehicle security testing.
CIRT director Devendra Singh said the Automotive Cybersecurity Talent Development Ecosystem is a strategic initiative aimed at developing industry-ready professionals equipped to address emerging technological challenges.
{{/usCountry}}CIRT director Devendra Singh said the Automotive Cybersecurity Talent Development Ecosystem is a strategic initiative aimed at developing industry-ready professionals equipped to address emerging technological challenges.
{{/usCountry}}“Strong collaboration between industry, educational institutions and research organisations will position India as a global leader in automotive cybersecurity,” Singh said.
Organisers also announced India’s first large-scale automotive cybersecurity awareness campaign for 50,000 BCA, MCA and engineering students from September 15 to 25. The campaign will introduce students to software-defined vehicles, cybersecurity threats, emerging technologies, industry expectations and career opportunities, while reinforcing the need for mobility solutions that are secure, trusted and cyber-resilient.