Important for:

UPSC, Haryana HCS, Punjab PCS
Prelims: Cloud computing, data sovereignty, cybersecurity
Mains: GS Paper 3 — Economy, Science & Technology, Internal Security

Why in News?

The government is considering mandating the use of ‘Made in India’ cloud systems in critical sectors to reduce reliance on foreign providers and ensure data security.

What is Cloud Computing?

➤ Storage and processing of data over the internet instead of local systems

Examples:

• Data storage
• Software services
• Online platforms

What is the Concern?

Issue:

• A foreign cloud provider can:
  → Block access to services

Risk:

• Disruption in:
  • Telecom
  • Energy
  • Financial services

→ Example:

• Microsoft blocking services to a company triggered concerns

What is Data Sovereignty?

➤ Data should be:

• Stored
• Processed

within national jurisdiction

Importance:

• National security
• Privacy protection
• Strategic autonomy

Government’s Plan

• Promote:
  → Indian cloud service providers
• Reduce:
  → Dependence on foreign tech companies
• Strengthen:
  → Digital infrastructure control

Key Challenges

• Indian providers not yet globally competitive
• Infrastructure limitations
• Cost and scalability issues

Global Context

• Countries increasingly focusing on:
  → Digital sovereignty
• Trend:
  • Data localisation
  • Cybersecurity regulations

India-Specific Significance

• Critical sectors depend heavily on digital systems
• Need for:
  • Secure data infrastructure
  • Indigenous technology

Key Insight for UPSC

→ This issue connects:

• Economy
• Technology
• National security

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1. Cloud computing refers to:

A. Physical storage
B. Internet-based data storage
C. Paper storage
D. Manual systems

✅ Answer: B

Q2. Data sovereignty means:

A. Free data sharing
B. Data controlled by foreign companies
C. Data under national jurisdiction
D. No data storage

✅ Answer: C

Q3. Which sector is critical for data security?

1. Banking
2. Telecom
3. Energy

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: D

Q4. Cybersecurity is related to:

A. Agriculture
B. Digital protection
C. Climate
D. Trade

✅ Answer: B

Q5. Data localisation helps in:

A. Export
B. National security
C. Tourism
D. Agriculture

✅ Answer: B

CBL Mains Practice Question

“Digital sovereignty is becoming a key component of national security.”
Discuss in the context of India’s push for indigenous cloud systems.

FAQs

1. What is cloud computing?

It is storing and processing data over the internet.

2. Why is India promoting local cloud systems?

To ensure data security and reduce foreign dependence.

3. What is data sovereignty?

Control of data within national boundaries.

4. What are the risks of foreign cloud providers?

Service disruption and security threats.

5. Which GS paper covers this topic?

GS Paper 3 — Economy & Technology.