Human Vigilance Becomes Key to Corporate Security

ADV. (DR.) PRASHANT MALI
PRESIDENT - CYBER LAW CONSULTING (ADVOCATES & ATTORNEYS)

As Indian enterprises advance their digital transformation journeys, CIOs and CTOs are becoming strategic business enablers rather than just tech support leaders. The adoption of technologies like Generative AI (GenAI), hybrid cloud, 5G, edge computing, IoT, blockchain, and sustainable tech is accelerating. AI-powered cyber threats are on the rise, making cybersecurity a top priority. In response, businesses are embracing Zero Trust models, AI-led threat detection, and automation for faster, smarter protection.

CIOs are now expected to understand business strategy and collaborate closely with CEOs, while CTOs steer future tech direction and innovation. CISOs lead the charge on cybersecurity, and a rising new role — the Data Protection Officer (DPO) — is emerging as crucial for ensuring compliance with privacy laws like India’s DPDP Act.
Security awareness is also evolving. Organizations are moving from passive training to interactive simulations and real-life examples, fostering a culture of shared responsibility. Leadership engagement and continuous communication are reinforcing this security-first mindset.

Although the DPO role can legally overlap with others in India, it's generally advised to keep it independent to avoid conflicts of interest. The future of tech leadership in India hinges on collaboration among these specialized roles to drive growth, ensure resilience, and navigate the complex digital landscape responsibly.