SANS & DSCI Release India’s First Cyber Skilling Study

New Delhi [India], December 4: The SANS Institute, the world’s most trusted provider of cybersecurity training, in collaboration with the Data Security Council of India (DSCI), has announced the launch of India’s first comprehensive study on the nation’s cybersecurity skilling landscape. This landmark research will evaluate the evolving talent ecosystem, identify critical workforce gaps, and outline a strategic roadmap for strengthening India’s cyber readiness.

As India undergoes a rapid digital transformation and technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced automation redefine cyber risk, industry stakeholders have emphasized the urgent need for specialized and scalable cyber talent. The newly launched study aims to provide a data-driven understanding of India’s current skill capabilities and future workforce requirements.

Identifying Skilling Gaps and Industry Priorities

The study will assess how effectively existing academic programs, upskilling initiatives, and professional training frameworks align with real-world cybersecurity demands. Beyond foundational security competencies, the initiative will highlight gaps in high-priority and specialized roles, including product engineering, threat intelligence, malware analysis, digital forensics, and incident response—domains that are often underserved by traditional training models.

The research will also examine the impact of emerging regulations such as the Digital Personal Data Protection Act and India’s rising cyber threat exposure, including cyberattacks, ransomware incidents, and financial fraud. As the sophistication of threats increases, organizations require deeper specialization and advanced analytical capabilities across their cybersecurity teams.

“India’s position as a global technology and cybersecurity leader depends on the strength of its cyber talent,” said Vinayak Godse, CEO of DSCI. “This study, developed with SANS, is the first step in understanding where we stand and what is needed to future-proof our workforce. It is not just about increasing the number of professionals—it's about enhancing the quality, specialization, and real-world readiness of their skills.”

Atul Kumar, Director at DSCI, added, “There remains a significant disconnect between academic output and the needs of the cybersecurity industry. This study will offer actionable insights to guide education, policy, and workforce development, helping India build a more responsive and future-ready skilling ecosystem.”

SANS Brings Global Expertise to India’s Cyber Future

Recognized globally for advanced cybersecurity training and technical certifications, SANS Institute brings its decades of expertise, industry data, and proven training methodologies to the initiative. The final study will be shared with government bodies, academic institutions, and industry leaders in early 2026 and will serve as a strategic framework for future workforce development.

Despite India’s emergence as a global hub for cybersecurity services—housing Security Operations Centres (SOCs), R&D labs, and product engineering units—the gap between supply and demand for specialized cybersecurity talent continues to widen.

“The cybersecurity landscape is evolving faster than traditional education models can adapt,” said Suresh Mustapha, Managing Director, SANS Institute – Asia Pacific. “Through this landmark study with DSCI, we aim to drive strategic skilling interventions that equip India’s cyber professionals to meet today’s complex threat environment.”

Arindam Roy, Country Director – South Asia at SANS, noted, “Our focus is to ensure India is prepared for the cyber threats of tomorrow. This initiative reflects our commitment to strengthening the nation’s digital resilience.”

About SANS Institute

Founded in 1989, the SANS Institute is the world’s leading provider of cybersecurity training, offering more than 85 courses delivered by renowned instructors. In India alone, over 6,000 courses and 3,000 certifications have been completed. Its affiliate, GIAC, offers more than 50 advanced certifications, while the SANS Technology Institute provides accredited cybersecurity degree programs. SANS also operates the Internet Storm Centre, the Internet’s early warning system.

About DSCI

The Data Security Council of India (DSCI), a NASSCOM® initiative, is a leading industry body committed to advancing data protection, cybersecurity policy, and capacity building across India.