The Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IITK), and the National Power Training Institute (NPTI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening research and training capabilities in the domain of cyber security for India’s power grid. IIT Kanpur and NPTI collaboration marks a significant step towards safeguarding the nation’s critical infrastructure against the increasing threat of cyberattacks.
Established in 1959 and recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India, IIT Kanpur is renowned for its high standards of education in science and engineering as well as its seminal R&D contributions. This new partnership with NPTI is set to leverage IIT Kanpur’s expertise to enhance the cybersecurity of the country’s power systems.
A Partnership for National Security
The MoU outlines the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for establishing an Operations Technology (OT) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Cyber Security Lab at NPTI. These systems, distinct from the IT systems of power distribution utilities or power generation and transmission companies, are crucial in today’s cyber threat environment.
Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, emphasized the urgency of this initiative. “The occurrence of cyber-attacks and cyber intrusions is increasing, and we should be safeguarding our critical infrastructure and be future-ready for any such malicious attacks. I am delighted that IIT Kanpur is partnering with NPTI to enhance the cyber security of India’s power grid. With our extensive expertise in cyber security research, this collaboration strengthens our mission to contribute to the nation’s technological advancements to prevent any further cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.”
Prof. Sandeep Shukla, Project Director of C3iHub at IIT Kanpur, emphasized the importance of the DPR in achieving this vision. He stated that preparing a DPR is a foundational step towards realizing the vision of a Power Systems OT and SCADA Lab. He mentioned that the lab would be state-of-the-art and equipped with the most common components used in OT systems at various Indian utilities, and it would be more extensive than what is currently present at the C3iHub.
“The lab will be more extensive than what is already present at the C3iHub. It will be a great asset for the power system operators in India to train their workforce in OT and SCADA security,” said Prof. Shukla.
Building Capacity in the Power Sector
Dr. Tripta Thakur, Director General of NPTI, emphasized the potential impact of the lab on enhancing the skills of power sector professionals. She said that NPTI is committed to equipping its workforce with the latest technological know-how and that the DPR would lay the groundwork for a facility that would provide hands-on training and support the integration of modern technologies in the power sector.
Prof. Tarun Gupta, Dean of R&D at IIT Kanpur, highlighted the institute’s pivotal role in modernizing the national power system. He expressed his belief that IIT Kanpur could play a crucial role in modernizing the national power system and ensuring its long-term sustainability and efficiency by leveraging its strong academic foundation, cutting-edge research capabilities, and robust industry connections.
The signing and exchange ceremony took place at the C3iHub, IIT Kanpur, with distinguished dignitaries including Prof. Tarun Gupta, Dr. Tripta Thakur, and Prof. Sandeep Shukla.
This MoU represents a crucial milestone towards fortifying the cyber security infrastructure of India’s power grid, underscoring the collective commitment of IIT Kanpur and NPTI to advance the nation’s technological capabilities and resilience.
IIT Kanpur Previous Collaborations
Prior to this, in June 2024, IIT Kanpur’s C3iHub launched the ‘Cyber Security Vocational Program’ in collaboration with Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) Kanpur and the Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj Innovation Foundation (CSJMIF). This program, formalized through an MoU, aims to further enhance cybersecurity education and training.
The collaboration between IIT Kanpur and NPTI is a strategic move to address the growing cyber security challenges faced by India’s power grid. By establishing a state-of-the-art OT and SCADA Cyber Security Lab, the partnership aims to equip power sector professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to defend against cyber threats. This initiative not only strengthens India’s cybersecurity framework but also reinforces the nation’s commitment to technological advancement and resilience in critical infrastructure.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, such collaborations are essential in ensuring the security and stability of vital national infrastructure.