Uttar Pradesh IT Minister Launches CYASTRA, a Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security

Varanasi, October 29, 2025 - Uttar Pradesh IT and Electronics Minister, Sunil Kumar Sharma, inaugurated the Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security (CYASTRA) at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth (MGKVP), Varanasi. This initiative aims to empower Uttar Pradesh's youth with advanced cyber security skills and make the state self-reliant in digital security.

Key Highlights:

- Digital Empowerment: CYASTRA is part of the state's Digital Empowerment Mission, providing youth with cutting-edge cyber security training and employable skills.
- State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: The centre features two advanced training labs, a high-performance computing server, and open-source cyber security tools.
- Global Collaboration: CYASTRA has partnered with national and international institutions like NASSCOM and EC-Council to ensure global standards in training and skill development.
- Practical Training: The centre will offer hands-on training in digital forensics, threat intelligence, network defence, and governance-risk-compliance (GRC).

Minister's Statement:

- "Developing cyber security skills is our priority. Our goal is to digitally empower every youth in Uttar Pradesh and enable them to combat cyber threats."

Vice Chancellor's Remarks:

- "Under Minister Sharma's visionary leadership, Uttar Pradesh is writing a new chapter in technical innovation and cyber education."

The event was attended by MGKVP Vice Chancellor, Prof. A.K. Tyagi, ICSS President, Dr. R.S. Nehra, and other dignitaries.