Key Facts and Data Points

  • Agency: Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT‑In) – designated under Section 70B of the IT Act, 2000.
  • Collaboration: SatCom Industry Association (SIA‑India).
  • Release Date: 27 February 2026.
  • Scope: Advisory framework for all stakeholders – government agencies, satellite service providers, ground‑station operators, vendors, and private space enterprises.
  • Core Provisions:
  • Threat Assessment: Signal jamming, spoofing, unauthorized command uplink, ground‑station compromise, firmware manipulation.
  • Segment‑wise Security Controls: Authentication, encryption, access‑control, intrusion‑detection across space segment, ground infrastructure, communication links, user terminals.
  • Incident Response: Detection, response, reporting in line with CERT‑In directions.
  • Governance: Mandatory appointment of a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for SatCom operators.
  • Supply‑Chain Security: Risk assessment, equipment certification, vendor vetting.
  • Alignment with Global Standards: ITU, CCSDS, NIST, SPACE‑Shield, TREKS, SPARTA.

Background and Context

  • India's space programme has expanded rapidly with commercial launches, satellite constellations, and private participation.
  • Cyber‑threats to space assets can disrupt critical services such as communication, navigation, weather forecasting, and defence.
  • Internationally, nations are formulating space cyber‑security doctrines; India’s framework seeks to keep pace with these developments.

Significance for India / Governance / Policy

  • Strategic Autonomy: Protects sovereign space infrastructure, essential for national security and economic growth.
  • Resilience Building: Promotes a secure‑by‑design approach, reducing vulnerability of mission‑critical systems.
  • Regulatory Oversight: Enhances the role of CERT‑In as the nodal agency for cyber‑incidents in the space domain.
  • Private Sector Enablement: Provides clear guidelines for emerging private space players, fostering confidence and investment.
  • International Credibility: Alignment with global standards positions India as a responsible space actor.

Related Constitutional / Legal Provisions

  • Information Technology Act, 2000 – Section 70B: Empowers the government to designate a national agency (CERT‑In) for cyber incident response.
  • Space Activities Act (draft): Anticipated to incorporate cyber‑security obligations for licence holders.
  • Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) Policies: Oversee implementation of cyber‑security frameworks across sectors.

References