IN A step towards combating cybercrime, the Maharashtra government 11 October inaugurated the Cybercrime Investigation Capacity Centre located at Mahape in Navi Mumbai.

While the project was approved in 2016 by the then Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, it was put on the backburner for several years. Eventually the project was revived in 2022 and approved by the state cabinet last year at the cost of Rs 837 crore.

The project was inaugurated by Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis in the presence of state DGP Rashmi Shukla. Speaking on the occasion Fadnavis said, “With cyber threats becoming more advanced, it is imperative that we stay ahead with proactive and innovative solutions. We have got some of the best technologies available across the world that will help us tackle cyber-crime.”

The five-storeyed headquarters located at Millenium Business Park in Mahape, Navi Mumbai will serve as the centre for cyber crime related issues across the state.

An official said that the new centre has facilities like Technology-Assisted Intelligence (TAI) laboratory, where AI and machine learning tools will aid investigations in crimes like crypto scams, a Security Operations Centre (SOC) equipped to handle large-scale security breaches and respond effectively to threats targeting individuals, businesses, and a Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) tasked with coordinating rapid responses to cyber incidents. He also added a Command Centre with a 24×7 operational helpline will also be available.

DyCM Fadnavis said that they were also starting a new cyber helpline— 14407, that will become operational from October 15.

DIG Sanjay Shintre said, “The Cybercrime HQ is designed to act as a critical resource for the state’s police forces, financial institutions, and citizens, ensuring that Maharashtra remains resilient in the face of growing cyber threats.”