India’s journey on becoming one of the fastest growing economies in the world has been supported by its focus on the manufacturing sector and the government’s recent push for localization with the ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.

India’s manufacturing sector is embracing digital transformation. At the heart of this transformation is the concept of Industry 4.0, acting as a driving force behind the rise of smart factories and digital manufacturing in India. This approach strategically integrates advanced technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and data analytics into manufacturing processes. By building intelligent systems where machines, devices, and human operators work together seamlessly within the factory environment, Industry 4.0 enables greater automation, boosts operational efficiency, and optimizes production outcomes.

As digital systems take centre stage, cybersecurity and resiliency becomes essential to protect critical manufacturing processes. Robust measures are needed to safeguard against threats that could disrupt production and to ensure secure, resilient operations as the sector advances. According to an IDC Ransomware study, 76 per cent of respondents from the manufacturing sector indicated that they were hit by a successful ransomware attack post-pandemic in the year 2022 making it one of the top three sectors most susceptible to ransomware attacks both in India and worldwide.

Urgent need for cyber resiliency in India’s manufacturing sector

In the current landscape, the question is no longer “if” a cyber incident will occur, but “when.” However, companies are yet to show the long-term investments needed to build critical cyber resiliency infrastructure. It is important to note that a single ransomware attack can encrypt production data and shut down operations leading to financial losses and supply chain disruption while also damaging reputation of the manufacturer. Sensitive data, including proprietary designs and customer information, may be compromised resulting in potential legal liabilities and regulatory penalties.

Given the numerous challenges manufacturers face, it is essential to develop a resilient cybersecurity approach that will allows then to recover effectively after an attack and continue operations.

• Establish an incident response plan (IRP): It is imperative to have a well-defined incident response plan along with a designated owner. This individual will ensure that the response is comprehensive and can withstand potential attacks. Additionally, the IRP should encompass all potential threats, detailing procedures for detection, containment, eradication, recovery and post-incident analysis. This comprehensive approach will help organizations respond effectively to various types of cyber incidents including data breaches and ransomware attacks.
• Protect against data exfiltration: Organizations must ensure implementation of solutions and security measures such as Data Loss Prevention (DLP) tools to safeguard against data exfiltration. Further, regular assessments to identify sensitive personal and intellectual property systems will help prevent unauthorized data export by malicious actors. Security efforts can be prioritized effectively when the understanding of what data needs protection emerges.
• Implement a cyber recovery solution: A cyber recovery solution, along with a detailed recovery runbook for critical applications and processes, is vital. This document serves as a guide for the recovery team, ensuring all necessary actions are taken promptly. Additionally, including a few hours of recovery retainer can provide the extra hands needed to expedite system restoration in the event of an incident.

Focusing on skills and talent

Skills and talent are often overlooked when building capabilities to battle cyber attacks. According to Kyndryl Readiness Report 2024, only 25per cent business leaders in India are investing in talent, positioning it in the lowest rung amongst other 15 countries surveyed globally.Developing skills and talent is of utmost priority specifically in India where small and medium enterprises make the backbone of the manufacturing sector. Regular training programs, tailored to the local workforce and conducted in regional languages can empower employees to recognize threats and respond effectively.

Collaboration for a secure future

With India witnessing the boom in manufacturing today, it is critical that technologists, organizations and government come together to promote cyber security awareness with the help of public-private partnerships. Additionally, offering incentives for critical technology adoption can also help accelerate the process of making India’s manufacturing sector cyber resilient.

Embracing these strategies will help mitigate risks and strengthen the overall integrity of India’s manufacturing sector, ensuring its continued contribution to the nation’s economic growth. As we look towards 2047, a resilient manufacturing industry will be essential for achieving sustainable progress and thriving in an increasingly interconnected world.

The author of this article is Harish Soni, Resiliency and Security Practice Leader at Kyndryl India

Note: This article is a part of ETCIO’s Brand Connect Initiative with Kyndryl India.