Category: Latest
Allied Telesis Non-Stop Network for Netmagic
Netmagic Solutions Pvt. Ltd., an NTT Communications Group company, is a leading data-center and Cloud service provider in India, which has grown to support the increasing requirement for always-on access to online digital data, video surveillance and other cloud-based services. Netmagic has 7 world-class data-centres situated in major business districts in Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi and Chennai, with more than 10,000 servers and other communication devices to manage. They support the data storage requirements of over 2,000 enterprise customers spanning a wide range of industries including banking and financial services, e-commerce, healthcare, manufacturing, hospitality, education and more. Challenge Netmagic uses a combination of self-developed open-source tools to provide advanced data storage and management services to its customers, and needs a highly-available, scalable and dynamic IT infrastructure. So when the company decided to renew its datacenter networks in Bangalore and Mumbai, only a feature-rich, cutting-edge solution could do. The data-centers in Bangalore and Mumbai, named Bangalore3 and Mumbai5 respectively, required major network redesigns. Netmagic had three major requirements for the winning proposal. The network had to be non-stop because data centers operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; second, the chosen products are capable of processing large amounts of IP CCTV data for security and surveillance, building management and access control; and lastly, Netmagic wanted the total solution from a single vendor who could provide the design of the new networks, industry-leading products, and top-notch support for the installation and commissioning of the new networks. Netmagic appointed NK Jain and Epsilon Design for physical security consultancy. After careful consideration of proposals from several network vendors, Netmagic selected a complete Allied Telesis network solution. Solution Allied Telesis designed highly-reliable data-center networks and installed feature-rich products to create a resilient solution that Netmagic needed. x510 series stackable Gigabit switches are installed in both networks’ core and distribution layers of Bangalore3 and Mumbai5 Data-centers. These switches provide powerful resiliency, security and management features in a compact and highly-reliable package. The x510 switches are deployed in pairs using Allied Telesis Virtual Chassis Stacking (VCStack™), allowing them to function as a single virtual device, providing load balancing and redundancy. Using VCStack in both the networks’ core and distribution layers provides Netmagic with a high-performing solution with the capacity to support large amounts of IP CCTV data that is processed and stored in their data-centers. The x510 switches also have dual power supplies for high reliability. Coupled with the resilient network design, the new solution guarantees always-on access to online information. Several Netmagic support engineers are now certified by Allied Telesis, and manage the ongoing needs of the datacenter networks. Success The network renewal was smoothly completed without any trouble, and has been operating without issue ever since. The new network was constructed in managed phases, and was carried out with hands-on technical support from Allied Telesis every step of the way. The new data-center networks support Netmagic in supplying world-class data and CCTV storage, as well as Cloud-based services to their many valued customers, 24 hours a day, every day. “We needed a totally redundant, non-stop network capable of processing large amounts of IP CCTV data. We also wanted a complete solution that included both network design and products. Allied Telesis provided excellent support during installation, and we were very happy with both the service and solution we received ” – Mahesh Kumar Patil Assistant General Manager, Netmagic Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
Technology Laws & Cyber Security Essentials in New Age India
Technology laws exist in India since 2000; however, with the advent of smart phones, and with wide internet penetration, the awareness and development of these laws have gradually increased. When I started practicing in cyber laws, smart phones were very new in India – a very few people owned them. But we have seen how during the last decade, society has changed and adapted to the technology, and also how technologies are being misused for committing frauds, thefts and other crimes. Over a few years, there has been an exponential rise in cyber-crimes – about 300% in the last one year in India alone. Today, there is a digital element everywhere. We find cyber-crime all around us, in various forms. Hacking, data theft, unauthorized access and cyber pornography are the most happening crimes. Besides, Internet has become a medium to commit conventional crimes such as theft, fraud and adultery. For example, most matrimonial offenses in divorce cases lie in the whatsapp chats, facebook posts and e-mails, which contain the evidence of adultery and cruelty. Online matrimonial portals have become the playground for fraudsters which are out to dupe gullible people seeking life partners. Social engineering is another way of phishing and vishing scams. I believe, almost every reader of this article must by now have received one or the other phishing/ vishing email with the subject ‘a beautiful woman is seeking a partner’ or an e-mail ‘proclaiming you have inherited a fortune,’ or a call ‘asking you to reset your debit card PIN number’ – all these clearly show how criminals have evolved from pick pocketing to committing credit/ debit card frauds and ATM skimming. Information Technology Act The Information Technology Act, 2000 (also known as ITA-2000, or the IT Act) is the primary law in India dealing with the cybercrime and electronic commerce. A brief outline of some of the provisions of the Act as amended in 2008 read with the Rules thereunder are elucidated hereunder. Section 66A This section was the one of the most controversial ones. It came in the limelight because under this section, arrests could be made for anything that caused annoyance or menace to another on the internet. It was struck off by the Supreme Court as the terms ‘menace’ and ‘annoyance’ are ambiguous and there can be no standard to define what is menacing or annoying for every individual in society. Section 43A This Section of the Information Technology Act imposes a liability of upto INR 5 crores on a body corporate who fails to secure the sensitive personal data of any individual which would include clients, employees and any other third parties whose data is stored by them. This is a very huge penalty and no other law in India imposes such a high penalty. There is a clear distinction between sensitive personal data and information (SPDI) and personal information (PI). SPDI includes, but is not limited to biometric information, sexual orientation, credit/ debit card data, and bank account details and passwords; whereas personal information (PI) includes any information which can be used to identify an individual like age, name, telephone number, address etc. The Intermediary Guidelines of 2011 render for an intermediary liable for failure to protect both SPDI and PI. Indian law is clearly very comprehensive that covers PI as well, unlike the laws of many countries which offer protection to SPDI only. There are provisions for penalizing for theft where any person receives or and retains a stolen computer device including smart phones (Section 66B); for identity theft where one uses the identity of someone else on the internet (66C); and for cyber impersonation where one impersonates as someone else on Internet (66D), including offenders who make fake social media profiles. Section 67, 67A and 67B deal with Cyber Pornography that do not render online pornography illegal. Creating and distributing pornography online is an offence however, downloading the same for private viewing is not an offence, with an exception of child pornography where even downloading is an offence. Duty of companies (Section 72A) Companies have a duty to protect the data of their clients and users especially if the same is contractually agreed. In case of failure, they are penalized under Section 72A of the Act. The Act defines an ‘Intermediary’ as any person who on behalf of another person stores or transmits a message or provides any service with respect to that message. This definition includes telecom service providers, internet service providers, web-hosting service providers, search engines, online-payment sites, online auction sites, online market places and cyber cafes. Section 79 of the Act is very crucial and provides respite to Intermediaries to some extent from an absolute liability. The requirement for liability under this section is the receipt of actual knowledge of offence by Intermediary and has been combined with a notice and take down duty. There is a time limit of 36 hours to respond to such a request and if an intermediary refuses to do so, it can be dragged to the court as a co-accused. These safe harbour provisions are available under the Amendment Act of 2008 only to an intermediary whose function is limited to giving access to a communication network over which information, made available by the third party, is transmitted or temporarily stored or where the intermediary does not initiate the transmission, does not select the receiver of the transmission and does not select or modify the information contained in the transmission. Authorities under the Act Cases of violations of the Information Technology Act are filed before the Adjudicating Officer appointed under this Act – one for each State. Appeals from the orders passed by Adjudicating Officer are filed before the Cyber Appellate Tribunal in New Delhi. The Court of the Adjudicating Officer is bound by the Rules of the Civil Procedure Code. An appeal from the Order of the Cyber Appellate Tribunal lies before the High Court, and appeals from all matters of the High Court lie before the Supreme…
Adopting New Approach to Cyber Security
In the last few years, cyber security has assumed tremendous significance. The number of cyber security breaches is constantly growing with each passing day. As a result, the annual cost of cybercrime is constantly increasing. As per a recent survey, it has been estimated that the total global cost of cybercrimes is expected to cross USD 6 trillion by 2021. Hence, the protection and preservation of cyber security becomes an important priority for all stakeholders. Author: Pawan Duggal – Advocate, Supreme Court of India Head, Pavan Duggal Associates, Advocates; & President, Cyberlaws.net In the Indian context, it is perceived that cyber security is primarily a governmental responsibility. However, nothing can be farther than the truth. Cyber security as a phenomenon refers to security of computer networks and computer systems which are used for accessing the electronic ecosystem. While it is absolutely clear that the Government is responsible for protection of cyber security of governmental networks, it also needs to be appreciated in the peculiar context of Indian conditions that a large number of computer systems constituting critical information infrastructure of the country are located in private hands. Examples include telecommunication networks, insurance networks and private banking networking, apart from private medical health network. In such a scenario, therefore, it becomes imperative that the private sector also needs to appreciate its responsibility of protecting and preserving cyber security Worldwide, the private sector is now increasingly being exposed to legal consequences for their failure to put in place security mechanisms to prevent hacking and other unauthorized access or cyber security breaches. The Ashley Madison website hacking case has brought to the fore front a renewed sensitization of a new kind of legal liability. The online dating website for married persons was hacked and subscriber details were made available. Consequently, legal actions have already been filed in the US for damages for the failure to put in place adequate security to protect the confidentiality of consumers’ data. Increasingly, companies now need to be prepared that they could potentially be sued for cyber security breaches and hence need to incorporate proactive cyber security legal compliances as an integral part of their day-to-day business operations. When one specifically examines the Indian context, it is clear that India does not have a dedicated law on cyber security. Indian cyber law is grounded in the Information Technology Act, 2000, which is a jack of all trades and master of none. Its amendments in 2008 incorporated various cosmetic amendments including giving a definition to the cyber security. The definition of cyber security inserted by virtue of the Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008 is broad enough to mean protecting information, equipment, devices, computer, computer resource, communication device and information stored therein from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification or destruction. Some provisions pertaining to breach of cyber security were added in the Information Technology Act, 2000 but they have not been invoked frequently or efficiently. Indian cyber law has also come up with the concept of intermediaries. All private and governmental service providers providing services on the network or dealing with third-party data are classified as intermediaries. Intermediaries under Indian cyber law are mandated to exercise due diligence while discharging their obligations under the law. Consequently, some parameters of due diligence were incorporated. In case, if an intermediary is dealing, handling sensitive personal data, additional compliances have been stipulated. Intermediaries are mandated to implement and maintain reasonable security practices and procedures while they deal, handle or process third party data. ISO 27001 standard has been recognised as one such methodology of reasonable security practices and procedures. However, when one looks at the complete set of duties and obligations stipulated for intermediaries, one will quickly realize that intermediaries have not been straddled with the responsibility for ensuring protection and preservation of cyber security. It will be a great step forward if the intermediaries are also handed the responsibility to protect and preserve cyber security. This becomes all the more important as cyber security is as strong as its weakest link and therefore the service providers need to be given the mandatory responsibility to contribute towards protection of cyber security. World over, intermediaries are now increasingly being straddled with these kind of responsibilities. Further, it is very unfair to expect that the Government would protect networks of the intermediaries when they are dealing, handling or processing third-party data. As such, the Indian law needs to take a stride forward. India needs to come up with a dedicated law on cyber security and needs to specifically address the various complex, complicated yet interconnected issues concerning cyber security ecosystems whether it is encryption, protection of critical information infrastructure, surveillance, monitoring, online liberty, privacy or any other aspect. The announcement of the Digital India program has been met with tremendous enthusiasm. For the success of the governmental programs like Digital India and Make in India, it becomes imperative that more focus needs to put on cyber security and the compliances of connected regulations by all stakeholders. As time passes by, India has to start inculcating the culture of cyber security as a way of life. We need to ensure that education concerning cyber security and cyber law needs to start at a very early age as an integral part of the school curriculum. In this regard, appropriate reforms in the education curriculum needs to be put in place. Cyber security today is presenting large amount of challenges and as such legal frameworks need to have appropriate flexibility so as to meet with the emerging challenges of the evolving paradigm of cyber security as time passes by.
India Risk Review 2018
Security needs collaboration at individual, organizational, industrial, national and global levels. Networking and knowledge sharing are the key drivers for mitigating challenges in today’s complex security environment. India dealt with the economic implications of big-ticket items like demonetization and GST. Even as violence level of Maoist and Northeast insurgencies showed a downward trend, Jammu & Kashmir remained on the boil. Along with the unrest in the border states of the country, civil disturbances in the Indian heartland have continued to occur with various special interest groups agitating to get their demands met – prominent among them being the farmers and identity-based groups. Meanwhile, cyber security continued to be an area of concern during 2017 as in the previous years, with cyber-attacks like ‘WannaCry’ occurring frequently. The year gone by was tumultuous, and a defining one for India from the economic and security perspective. The twin macroeconomic initiatives, in the form of remonetisation and introduction of GST brought about a major upheaval in the cash dependant Indian economy, whose overall impact would be felt in the ensuing years. GST, despite some infirmities, gave a boost to the federal structure and would be a unifying factor by acting as a catalyst for seamless interstate trade. The GST council will become a powerful forum for economic equity. The Indian economy buoyed by reforms and upgradation of the ease of doing business index would grow significantly in the next few years. The Political The political scenario continued to get increasingly polarised with caste and communal politics making a comeback. Slow job growth in the hinterland continues to pose risks of social unrest; fanned by political rhetorics, and would need careful monitoring. The internal security scenario showed improvement and this trend would continue. The Rohingya refugee crisis has been handled satisfactorily by the government, else it would have posed some long-term security risks. Overall, 2018 would usher in improved economic dynamics and a reasonably stable security scenario. – Lt. Gen. Sudhir Sharma (Retd.) PVSM, AVSM, YSM, VSM Chairman, MitKat As we move into 2018, security professionals world-wide will face dynamic and more evolving security threats. With other traditional security threats, terrorism and geopolitical stress will remain areas of concern, along with non-traditional threats in both the physical and cyber realms. Civil unrest, agitations and protests by parties and groups will continue to disrupt business activities, especially in the major cities. Natural hazards such as floods, cyclones and other extreme weather events will pose an increasing threat to the security and business continuity. Keeping in view the ever-changing dynamic security environment in India, it is important to constantly monitor the external threats. Overall business climate in India in 2018 India has adopted a variety of economic reform measures during 2017; most notably the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the demonetization drive that have impacted Indian businesses across the economic spectrum. In October 2017 the International Monetary Fund (IMF) slashed India’s growth forecast by 0.5 percentage points to 6.7 percent in 2017. It has also lowered the growth projection for 2018 to 7.4 per cent from its earlier estimate in April and June of 7.7 per cent. The IMF forecast is in line with a number of recent projections that have scaled down India’s growth prospects for the fiscal due to disruptions from demonetization and GST, despite the government’s strong defense of the moves. GDP growth hit a three-year low of 5.7 per cent in the first quarter of the fiscal. However, the IMF is more optimistic about medium- term growth prospects for India through gains from the new indirect tax levy. India jumped 30 spots in the rankings to 100th place out of 190 countries in the recent World Bank Doing Business report. The Central Government also plans to release a state wise ease of doing business ranking by February 2018 in order to encourage competition and increase transparency. Another vote of confidence in the Indian economy has been the upgrading of India’s sovereign rating by Moody’s to Baa2 (Investment Grade – Stable Outlook), the first such upgrade after 13 years. The rationale behind this upgrade is a strong acknowledgment and endorsement of structural-reforms in the past three years, which are slowly but surely fructifying. The deep rooted and far sighted reforms like financial inclusion (getting the poorest access to the formal banking system), and direct benefit transfer of subsidies (and thereby minimizing pilferage), have significantly led to strengthening of economy. PSU bank recapitalization, aimed at reducing the problem of NPAs in the banking system, is another positive step. Bold foreign direct investment reforms have taken place in 21 sectors along with significant reforms in defence, railways, construction, insurance, pension, civil aviation and pharmaceuticals sectors. Top Business Risks in 2018 Public protests/ strikes Public protests have resulted in serious disruptions during 2017 as most of the protests were spearheaded by farmer unions, labour unions, textile workers and bank employees. The textile industry has suffered a loss of an estimated INR 40,000 crore due to the protest against GST since July 1. The protest by bank employees all over India also led to losses of billions of rupees and this was also reflected in the stock markets over the next few days. Protests against infrastructure projects and land acquisition have also had a significant impact and will continue to do so in 2018 owing to the larger time frame of these projects. The blockade and protests against the Vizhinjam transshipment port led by local fishermen resulted in large losses and delays. Natural disasters Major metropolitan cities continue to remain underprepared to handle severe flooding resulting from the annual monsoons, which usually run from June to September. Many parts of Mumbai, Delhi and Gurgaon, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata are submerged due to waterlogging, resulting in severe disruption to businesses. Extreme flooding brought Mumbai to a standstill in July 2017. India on average suffers an economic loss of US$7 billion each year because of floods, according to the United Nations. In Assam over 5,300 hectares of agricultural…
SSSDC Performed Knowledge Partner
Security Sector Skill Development Council (SSSDC) made valuable contributions to the 12th Security Skills and Leadership Summit, held under the aegis of the Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI) and the Association of Private Detectives and Investigators (APDI) during 16-17 December 2017 at Le-Meridian, New Delhi, as their Knowledge Partner.& During the Summit the Council conducted a discussion on the much-awaited job role of the fireman. This job is in its final stage of being accorded approval by the National Skill Development Agency, the apex body of approving vocational job roles for the skilling ecosystem. The discussion was orchestrated by the COO of SSSDC and the participants included experts in the field of firefighting mechanisms. The highlight of the event was the update presented by the CEO of SSSDC on the achievements of the Council since the last Leadership Summit, and that culminated in the unveiling of the inaugural edition of its annual magazine ‘Kaleidoscope.’Another memorable highlight of the two-day event was the participation of 15 tribal girls undergoing security course in the Maoist infected area of Jharkhand. As is the norm, the outstanding performance of the staff of the Council, as well as the training providers and assessment bodies were suitably recognized and awarded. They received their respective awards from the Hon’ble Minister of Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, and the erstwhile Maharaja of Sirohi, His Excellency Raghubir Singh respectively.
Catalyzing Progress and Vision of the Security Industry
UBM India has successfully concluded its 11th edition of the three-day International Fire & Security Exhibition and Conference (IFSEC) India Expo 2017 held during 6-8 December in New Delhi. The show brought together internationally business experts, and the key government officials on one common platform to discuss global best practices and concepts such as smart cities, and to seek solutions for challenges in the security and fire domain. It also provided informative demos and a wealth of opportunities for the visitors to network, and learn about cutting-edge technologies,industry trends, challenges, market insights and discover the best solutions to keep their business and clients secured. The inaugural ceremony of IFSEC India 2017 took place in the presence of key dignitaries such as Gopal K Pillai, Chairman, Data Security Council of India & Former Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India; Shiv Charan Yadav, President, Asian Professional Security Association (APSA); Anil Dhawan, Co-Chair, ASSOCHAM Homeland Security; Commander Deepak Uppal, Director, Price water house Coopers (PwC); Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India; and Pankaj Jain, Group Director, UBM India, amidst an august industry gathering. This year, the expo saw participation from countries such as UK, USA,China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Australia, Canada, Singapore, Lithuania, South Africa, Russia and Turkey etc., from the commercial security domain, and displayed over 300 brands. The Expo was supported by Asian Professional Security Association (APSA), American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS), Electronic Security Association of India (ESAI), Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI) and Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC), along with Assocham as Strategic Partner and PwC as the Knowledge Partner. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India said, “The flourishing economy and rapid growth in sectors such as airports, construction, energy,ports, telecom, railways, road and retail,coupled with the influx of multinational companies have been the primary driving force for creating demand for the security industry. The government of India has also made its intention clear to revamp the country’s ailing infrastructure by announcing new airports, ports, and by building 100 smart cities across the nation. While implementing these schemes, it is necessary that the aspects of ‘safety’ and ‘security’ which are of prime concerns in urban areas are also incorporated.” PwC, the knowledge partner of IFSEC India launched a white paper on ‘Maximizing the benefits of a command and control Centre (CCC)’ that primarily talks about today’s key challenges of command and control Centre (CCC) utilization for the concept of operations, and co-locating various command centres for integrated operations. With the increasing focus on Homeland security in India, IFSEC India 2017 conducted a one day conference with the theme ‘Secure Nation and Safer Environment’ alongside the exhibition where relevant insights gained in the global security market were discussed. IFSEC India also convened their 2nd edition of IFSEC India Awards. The electronic security industry in India is proliferating and the awards were crafted to felicitate the minds behind the security of various industry verticals like BFSI, retail and manufacturing, energy, healthcare, PSUs, IT & ITES, and infrastructure in the limelight. The awards recognized the excellence and innovations of CSOs and security officers who continuously work behind the scenes to ensure robust security. With the need for robust and updated security technologies to gain momentum with each passing day, UBM India through IFSEC India 2017 showcased the latest know how in the industry and deciphered relevant insights gained in the global security market. It provided an opportunity to its exhibitors and visitors to discover the best solutions to keep their business and clients secure amongst a showcase of innovative products – Yogesh Mudras Managing Director, UBM India It is the ardent need for policy makers to get more serious about adopting technologies in homeland security due to the growing threats from terrorists and other extremist organisations – G. K. Pillai Chairman, DSCI & Former Home Secretary,Government of India UBM India has maintained its leadership in security industry yet again with its 11th edition ofIFSEC India 2017. The expo exhibited wide range of innovative security products and solutions, convened a one day conference on Homeland Security and Smart Cities in association with ASSOCHAM, and conducted an award ceremony for end users representing Government, Public sector and Private sectors. It is a true platform for security professionals to interact and develop knowledge – Anil Dhawan Co-Chairman, Homeland Security Committee, ASSOCHAM & Managing Director, DB Secure Solution Private Limited IFSEC provides an opportunity for the surveillance and system integrator industries to come together to exchange ideas, showcase the latest technologies and discuss industry issues and trends. As a leader in storage solutions for surveillance systems, Western Digital considers IFSEC to be an important event in our marketing calendar – Khwaja Saifuddin Sr. Sales Director, South Asia, ME & Africa, Western Digital
Security Skill and Leadership Summit 2017
The Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI) and Association of Private Detectives and Investigators, India convened their 12th Annual Conference – Security Skills & Leadership Summit 2017 – during 16 and 17 December 2017 at the Le-Meridian, New Delhi. The conference was opened by Gen. V K Singh (Retd.), the Minister of State for External Affairs, GoI, who asked private security agencies to upgrade their skills and adopt modern technologies to make India a safer place. The conference was at-tended by security professionals from all over India. “Our security environment is changing fast; our streets may not be as Therefore, it is important for the private security agencies to wake up to the growing challenges related to public safety and security,” Gen. Singh said, “The sphere of private security agencies has increased many times and so have the challenges. The industry needs to look into the challenges of providing better trained and better equipped manpower.” CAPSI Chairperson, Kunwar Vikram Singh has written a comprehensive letter to Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, and sought his intervention in resolving long standing issues of the private security sector which have been hurting its growth,particularly those related to the unfair imposition of GST which is putting unfavorable financial burden on agencies,and the imposition of new draconian rule under which agency owners would be held guilty and penalized for the crimes committed by their guards. “Private security sector currently employs 70 lakh private security guards and supervisors working in 22,000 private security agencies. It is one of the largest private sector employers in India. The sector is growing at the annual rate of 22% and it is one of the largest corporate tax contributor as on date, but unfortunately it is yet in a neglected stature,” Kunwar Vikram Singh is said to have quoted in his letter to the Prime Minister. “We have urged the Prime Minister to pro-actively consider our demands and save the sector which could prove crucial for the success of Skill India and also in generating jobs,” he apprised the delegates, “The Prime Minister has asked the Union Home Ministry to look into our concerns on urgent basis.” “We further demanded that GST should be made applicable on reverse charge basis for the security agencies whereby service takers would be made liable to pay the tax, not the service providers. We work on 3-months credit and our payments are often delayed, nonetheless, we make the payment of salaries to our personnel in time. It is unaffordable for us to make an upfront payment of additional 18% GST. The GST regime is a setback and is badly hurting us. Many agencies have already been made to close their business due to this undesirable burden.If this continues, our sector will die in distress and lakhs of people will be renderd jobless,” Kunwar Vikram Singh added. The forum discussed the urgent need to amend the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act 2005, in consultation with the security agencies. A recent provision to penalize the employers for the crime committed by their guard is draconian and needs to be withdrawn immediately. Owners cannot be held accountable for the negligence of their guards or supervisors. The forum discussed the urgent need to amend the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act 2005, in consultation with the security agencies. A recent provision to penalize the employers for the crime committed by their guard is draconian and needs to be withdrawn immediately. Owners cannot be held accountable for the negligence of their guards or supervisors. “This is a highly objectionable rule which will lead to chaos, we demand its immediate withdrawal,” Mr. Singh continued. CAPSI also demands for a fair tender process by the government/ PSUs who often clear the tender of some private companies at 0% or nominal rates. This is not feasible and would promote corrupt and unethical business model. “We need a fair tender process by the government or public sector undertakings (PSUs) which is necessary to promote competition,” he added, “Any anti-competitive practice leads to cartelization and obstructs the sector’s growth.” NSDC has recently derecognized 200 training centers run by the security agencies across India in an abrupt manner, including those in semi-urban and rural areas. Their sudden closure and arbitrary change in policy have rendered many youth jobless. “This is against the spirit of Skill India,” CAPSI Chairman stated in astonishment, “On the contrary, today we need more centers in rural and semi-urban areas to improve job opportunities for the rural youth. Also, the certificates issued by these training centers and NSDC should be recognized by the state bodies which is surprisingly not the case at present.” The Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram addressed the valedictory ceremony and admired the private security sector for playing a significant role in creating employment opportunities for the tribal people. “Lakhs of tribal people are working today as security guards in metro cities, and IT hubs of Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune. Government is considering formulating a special policy whereby these tribals can be benefited from the Modi Government’s Skill India initiative, and which will improve their employability. It will also help in tackling the problem of Naxalism,” Mr. Oram said, “There are 136 tribal dominated districts where we plan to focus under Skill India programme.Private security is one such sector where our tribal people can get good employment opportunities. Tribals are the most honest and hardworking people and they are real asset for the country. We will take help from CAPSI to ensure more and more tribals can get good employment opportunities and help them join the national main stream.” As government cannot meet all the requirements of security, we are becoming more dependent on private security, particularly to private individuals and organizations. The private agencies should take on this…
Private Security Industry Conclave (PSIC) 2017
FICCI organised their fifth edition of PSIC on November 10, 2017 in New Delhi. PSIC is FICCI’s annual programme which aims to bring together experts from the Government, Industry, Controlling Authorities, user agencies, and other stakeholders to discuss and debate various policy and regulatory issues concerning the private security industry. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, delivered the key note address during a Special Interactive Session and released FICCI-PwC Report on Private Security Industry. Manjari Jaruhar, Chair, FICCI Committee on Private Security Industry and Former Special DG, CISF, said that the minimum qualification for becoming a constable in the police force was 12+, but the private security industry was providing employment opportunities to the youth at the grass root level, even to those who had completed only 7th or 8th standard. In his theme presentation, Rituraj Sinha, Co-Chair, FICCI Committee on Private Security Industry and Group COO, SIS India Ltd., said that the private security industry was estimated to be INR 40,000 crore in terms of revenue with per annum growth of 18-20 per cent. Session on Policy issues pertaining to Enforcement of (PSAR) Act, 2005 was chaired by Vivek Bhardwaj, Joint Secretary (Police Modernisation), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. He addressed issues related to licences, verification, multiple regulations faced by the controlling authorities and also the PSAs pertaining to enforcement of PSARA. Chairing ‘Minimum standards/ guidelines for cash logistics companies,’ O. P. Mishra, Additional Secretary – Home, Govt. of NCT of Delhi mentioned that the Draft SOPs for secured cash handling & transportation has been modified by MHA and that will be coming out soon. He indicated that it is important that the training certificate issued to the security guard by one state should be recognized by all other states. The session further underlined that the standards once notified will act as a common guideline for all the operators dealing in cash business. Maj. Mandeep S. Garewal, Managing Director & Principal Consultant, Force Tech Security, as the chair of the panel on foreign investment gave a historical background on FDI scenario pertaining to the private security industry. The panel presented mixed views on the subject. The conference was attended by more than 120 delegates. There is a huge gap between private security industry and skill development ministry that needs to be attended. The private sector should consider and encourage Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) where private security workforce would be skilled, upskilled, and provided certification without any financial implication – Dharmendra Pradhan Minister of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India The sector offered great employment opportunities as every year 3-5 lac new jobs are being created here. Besides, the categorization of private security workers as skilled and highly skilled workforce has benefitted the industry – Rituraj Sinha Co-Chair, FICCI Committee on Private Security & Group COO,SIS India Ltd. There is a need to make skilling robust for private security sector as it is lagging behind. The government should authorize more institutes to skill and upgrade manpower in the private security sector – Manjari Jaruhar Chair, FICCI Committee on Private Security & Former Special DG, CISF
SSSDC to Train Retiring Soldiers
SSSDC dons the mantle to prepare retiring soldiers for a second career after they retire, for the job roles of Security Supervisor, Private Security Officer and CCTV Supervisor. National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has signed MoUs with the Army and the Navy to skill the retiring personnel in domain training. The soldiers and sailors are already experienced in platform skills for they have been imparting military training to their subordinates throughout their Army/ Navy service. SSSDC takes the responsibility to train them to comfortably adapt to the practices of the private security sector. Army personnel in great numbers have opted to associate with the Security Sector as trainers and assessors. With the announcement of the Government of various skilling schemes, the skilling mechanism in the country has expanded exponentially, thus providing tremendous opportunities for the employment of trainers and assessors. The industry is very keen to absorb such well-disciplined and honest workforce. A new focus on rehabilitating the soldiers on superannuation has been given impetus. It is well known that an Infantry Soldier often retires very early, at an average full of life age of 40 years, where one is left with a fair amount of energetic age to live. At this age, one can work in full swing, and can efficiently earn a decent livelihood by supplementing their pension. SSSDC is working with 19 regimental centers and have trained 13000 personnel till date. We at SSSDC are proud to attain the opportunity to train the retired Army and Navy personnel who are already proficient in platform skill. It is a matter of our great pleasure and satisfaction to help and enable them re-establish their second inning of life in a respectable way. I feel SSSDC is the best benefitted entity in this transaction – Kunwar Vikram Singh Chairman, SSSDC SSSDC through its training partner Force 10 Protection Services (P) Ltd is imparting training to the retired Navy personnel under the scheme of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Force 10 have two training centers approved from NSDC as per the international standards. They have trained about 700 personnel till now. Director General Resettlement conducts various courses for the retiring personnel of the Armed Forces in order to facilitate them pursuing a second career. The courses designed for retiring NCO/ JCO/ Officers in the security domain vary from the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) levels, ranging from five to six. The courses are conducted by the nominated training centers. For the current financial year, DGR has allocated 1500 vacancies in various job roles of Level 5 for the security domain. SSSDC lays great importance to the prestigious DGR Project and would exert its optimum to ensure that the project is executed in a flawless manner.
The International Conference on Cyberlaw, Cybercrime & Cybersecurity
India hosted the International Conference on Cyberlaw, Cybercrime & Cybersecurity – a congregation of some of the best minds on cyberspace issues across the world during 16 & 17 November 2017 in New Delhi. The Conference was organized by Cyberlaws.Net & Pavan Duggal Associates, Advocates. The Conference was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, Justice Dipak Misra. He stressed upon the need for concentrating on emerging legal, policy and regulatory issues concerning cyberspace, and the need for all stakeholders including lawmakers and judiciary to be more aware about the nuances of emerging cyber technologies. He highlighted the growing necessity for the judiciary to be up-todate with the latest trends concerning cyberspace as the said issues would be coming before them for adjudication in the coming times. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the conference, Steven Wilson, Head, EUROPOL Cybercrime Centre highlighted the practical dangers that cyber criminals are posing to states and other stakeholders across the world, and how there is a need for coordinated international approach to deal with emerging challenges concerning cybercrimes and the darknet. He specifically pointed out the misuse of Internet of Things by cyber criminals, and also the increased use of the Darknet and increasing cyber security breaches are the new realities of today. The Conference Director Pavan Duggal, Advocate, Supreme Court of India and an internationally renowned expert and authority on Cyberlaw and Cybersecurity welcomed the delegates and highlighted the very rapidly evolving yet changing landscape concerning Cyberlaw in the digital ecosystem, and the need for lawmakers and all stakeholders to deal with the legal and policy issues concerning cyberspace in a more effective, holistic and pragmatic manner. He further highlighted the need for nations to come up with dedicated cyber security legislations to deal with increased breaches of cyber security as also emphasized the need for more international work to be done on attribution of cyber acts. He pointed out the significance of cyber sovereignty and how different nations are adopting different approaches to protect and preserve their cyber security. The Conference had dozens of distinct sessions with more than 150 speakers across the world. Some of the prominent speakers at the conference included Ajay Prakash Sawhney, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India; Alfredo M. Ronchi, General Secretary of the European Commission- MEDICI Framework; Aruna Sundararajan, Secretary, Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India; Dr. Ajay Kumar, Additional Secretary, Department of Electronics & Information Technology, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India; Dr. Gulshan Rai, Chief Information Security Officer, Prime Minister’s Office, Gov- ernment of India; Dr. Vikram Singh, IPS, Former Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh Police; Stuti Narain Kacker, Chairperson, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), and so on. Hon’ble Mr. Justice Kurian Joseph, Judge Supreme Court of India chaired the extremely interesting session on Cybercrime, which came up with interesting recommendations on how to tackle with the emerging challenges of cybercrime in today’s scenario. The Conference further came up with the Outcome Document which highlighted various specific outcomes of the Conference including steps that need to be taken by the international and national stakeholders in order to further address legal, policy and regulatory issues concerning cyberspace. The Valedictory Session of the Conference was addressed by Hon’ble Justice Madan B. Lokur, Judge, Supreme Court of India, and Hon’ble Justice Ms. Gita Mittal, Acting Chief Justice of Delhi High Court.