Digital Fraud, Cybercrime, and Deepfake: President Droupadi Murmu Highlights Major Security Challenges

President Droupadi Murmu, in her address to the joint session of Parliament on Friday, underscored the escalating risks posed by digital fraud, cybercrime, and deepfake technology. She emphasized the urgent need to strengthen national cybersecurity measures to protect social, financial, and national security interests.

Recognizing the evolving nature of cyber threats, President Murmu reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing digital security frameworks. She acknowledged that as India progresses in the digital space, it also faces significant vulnerabilities, necessitating proactive measures against cyber threats.

India’s Rise as a Global Digital Power

India AI Mission and Digital Advancements

President Droupadi Murmu reaffirmed India’s ambition to emerge as a global leader in digital innovation, emphasizing the launch of the India AI Mission. This initiative aims to foster advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), positioning India as a key player in cutting-edge technology and strengthening its digital economy.

She noted, “Today, India is making its presence felt as a major global player in the field of digital technology. Developed nations are also impressed with the success of India’s UPI transaction system.”

UPI’s Global Recognition

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has become a benchmark in digital financial transactions, with several nations looking to adopt India's payment model. The system’s efficiency, security, and real-time processing capabilities have set a global standard, making it one of the most successful digital payment systems worldwide.

Digital Technology for Social Justice and Inclusion

President Murmu highlighted how the government has effectively leveraged digital technology to drive social justice, financial inclusion, and transparency. She pointed out how digital platforms have facilitated:

• Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) for welfare schemes

• Improved access to financial services in rural areas

• Increased efficiency in governance and public service delivery

Economic Growth and Policy Reforms in Focus

Accelerating Economic Growth and Stability

In her address, President Murmu reaffirmed the government’s focus on implementing transformative policies to drive economic growth, enhance financial stability, and improve governance. She emphasized the role of fiscal discipline and structural reforms in ensuring sustained economic progress.

PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi: Boosting Rural Livelihoods

Highlighting the government’s pro-farmer initiatives, President Murmu mentioned the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, which has disbursed ₹41,000 crore to millions of farmers across the country. This direct financial assistance is aimed at:

• Ensuring agricultural stability

• Boosting rural incomes

• Supporting farmers’ livelihoods

Key Policy Reforms: One Nation, One Election & Waqf Bill

‘One Nation, One Election’ Initiative

The president also discussed the 'One Nation, One Election' reform, which proposes to synchronize elections across India. This initiative aims to:

• Reduce administrative costs

• Enhance governance efficiency

• Ensure political stability

The move has been a subject of intense debate, with proponents arguing that it will streamline the electoral process and ensure uninterrupted policy implementation.

Waqf Bill: Enhancing Transparency in Religious Endowments

President Murmu also spoke about the Waqf Bill, a legislative proposal aimed at bringing greater transparency and efficiency in the management of Waqf properties. The bill seeks to:

• Improve governance of religious endowments

• Prevent misuse of Waqf assets

• Ensure better financial accountability

Conclusion: Strengthening India’s Digital and Economic Future

President Droupadi Murmu’s address highlighted the dual nature of digital progress—offering immense opportunities while also posing significant security threats. With cybercrime, deepfake technology, and digital fraud on the rise, she emphasized the need for stronger cybersecurity frameworks.

At the same time, India continues its journey toward becoming a global digital powerhouse, leveraging AI, UPI, and transformative policies like One Nation, One Election and the Waqf Bill. The government’s focus remains on economic stability, technological innovation, and social inclusion, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of global progress and digital security.