India practices a 'multi-alignment' approach in its cyber diplomacy. How does this posture strengthen India's internal security while maintaining strategic autonomy?

A 'multi-alignment' approach in cyber diplomacy maskes us to pursue rational interest without being dragged into any particular bloc. Strengthening national security: 1) Focus on data sovereignty. Egs DPDP Act 2) knowledge transfer on cyber security systems through MOUs. Egs MOU with the U.S. 3) Trade in cyber security systems - egs cyber security system purchase from Israel. 4) Broad consensus building on cyber security cyberwarfare etc. Egs role in SCO. Maintain strategic autonomy: 1) Action in rational interest -> pulled out of RCEP over data sovereign concerns. 2) Strict requirement for MVOs operating in India -> egs no safe harbour upon now compliant. 3) Issue - based alliance, names then commitment to a bloc. 4) Commitment to rules- based, safer encrypted cyber space.

Maintain strategic autonomy: 1) Action in national interest -> pulled out of RCEP over date sovereign concerns. 2) Strict requirement for MVOs operating in India -> egs no safe harbour upon now compliant. 3) Issue - based alliance, names then commitment to a bloc. 4) Commitment to rules- based, safer encrypted cyber space. Hence, India has managed its cyber diplomacy to ensure safety and autonomy.

— ISHAN BHATNAGAR · AIR 5