NPCI IDRBT cybersecurity collaboration to enhance cybersecurity in India’s digital payment systems. Includes training, certification, and access to the “सचेत” threat intelligence platform.
Joint MoU Aims at Fortifying the Digital Payment Ecosystem
On June 17, 2025, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Their objective is to enhance cyber‑security and resilience within India’s rapidly growing digital payment ecosystem—specifically for platforms such as UPI and other digital financial infrastructures
Focus on Training & Capacity Building
The collaboration prioritizes comprehensive training for technology and cybersecurity professionals working with banks and payment systems. Jointly, NPCI and IDRBT will roll out specialized programs covering cyber‑security, data protection, system resilience, and threat detection . This initiative is crucial to raising awareness, improving skills, and reducing human‑error vulnerabilities in the digital payments space.
NPCI‑Certified Payment Security Certification
A standout feature of the collaboration is the launch of an NPCI‑certified payment security certification program. Tailored to evolving industry demands and regulatory expectations, this certification will empower professionals to stay current with emerging cyber threats and best security practices
Access to “सचेत” Threat Intelligence Platform
Under the MoU, IDRBT will provide its “सचेत” (IBCART 3.0) cyber threat intelligence services to NPCI and its ecosystem partners. This platform offers real‑time, contextualized cyber‑threat data and alerts, enabling proactive defenses and quicker incident response across the network
Leadership Perspective: People & Preparedness
NPCI MD & CEO Dilip Asbe emphasized that enhancing cyber resilience goes beyond technology—it hinges on people and preparedness through training, certifications, and shared intelligence Dr. Deepak Kumar, Director of IDRBT, added that the strategic partnership will cultivate cybersecurity awareness and foster proactive defence mechanisms—strengthening the whole ecosystem
Why This News Is Important
Securing the Backbone of India’s Digital Economy
India’s digital payments landscape—led by systems like UPI—has seen exponential growth. As transactions scale, the risk landscape grows too. Strengthening cyber‑security ensures trust in the system, enabling individuals, businesses, and government services to operate securely.
Capacity Building Meets Regulatory Readiness
By offering certified training programs, this collaboration addresses the skills gap in cybersecurity—a major concern for regulators and financial institutions. Professionals equipped with certifications will ensure compliance with RBI mandates and industry regulations.
Proactive Threat Intelligence
“Weak links” in cyber-security often include delayed threat detection. With the “सचेत” intelligence platform, stakeholders receive near real-time threat insights. This enhances prevention and swift response capabilities, helping mitigate attacks before severe damage occurs.
National Security & Financial Stability
Digital payments are integral to India’s economic strategy. A cyber breach in this domain can disrupt financial stability and invite national-level risks. The NPCI–IDRBT alliance thus plays a pivotal role in securing the nation’s financial backbone and its broader digital transformation journey.
Historical Context
NPCI: Architect of India’s Digital Payments
Established in December 2008 by the Reserve Bank of India and Indian Banks’ Association, NPCI revolutionized payment systems with innovations like UPI, RuPay, AePS, and Bharat BillPay As UPI gained mass adoption, cybersecurity became paramount to sustain user confidence.
IDRBT: Banking Technology Research Pioneer
Founded in 1996, the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT) in Hyderabad has long partnered with banks and regulators to advance secure and scalable financial technologies—evident from its launch of the National Financial Switch in 2004
Shift to Cyber‑Security: From Reaction to Prevention
Earlier, digital payment security was largely reactive to incidents. Recent high‑profile breaches have accelerated a shift toward proactive strategies—emphasizing capacity building, certifications, and threat intelligence—to prevent future incidents and bolster resilience.
Key Takeaways from NPCI–IDRBT MoU
| S. No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | NPCI and IDRBT signed an MoU on June 12, 2025, to enhance cybersecurity in India’s digital payment ecosystem |
| 2 | The partnership focuses on specialized training in cybersecurity, data privacy, and system resilience for banking professionals . |
| 3 | NPCI will launch a certified payment security program aimed at addressing emerging threats and regulatory requirements . |
| 4 | IDRBT’s “सचेत” (IBCART 3.0) threat intelligence platform will be accessible to NPCI and its partners for real-time threat monitoring . |
| 5 | By combining technology, skilled professionals, and threat intelligence, the initiative aims to build stronger cyber-resilient defences across India’s digital payments infrastructure . |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the primary aim of the MoU signed between NPCI and IDRBT?
The primary aim is to enhance cyber security and resilience in India’s digital payment systems through training, certification, and access to threat intelligence platforms.
2. What is the “सचेत” platform and why is it important?
“सचेत” (IBCART 3.0) is a cyber threat intelligence platform developed by IDRBT. It provides real-time alerts and intelligence to prevent cyber threats and enhance the security posture of payment systems.
3. Who will benefit from the payment security certification offered under this MoU?
Banking professionals, cybersecurity experts, and payment system stakeholders will benefit from this certification to upgrade their skills and meet industry standards.
4. Why is cybersecurity crucial for digital payments in India?
With the growing adoption of platforms like UPI, ensuring the security of transactions and data is essential to maintain public trust and prevent financial crimes.
5. What roles do NPCI and IDRBT play in India’s financial ecosystem?
NPCI is the body behind key digital payment platforms like UPI and RuPay, while IDRBT serves as a research and development institute for banking technology and cybersecurity.
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