GCTF FOR CYBERSECURITY THREAT (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – IR)

Context: Recently, the first in-person GCTF program in India, co-hosted by the US ambassador to India, was attended by representatives from the US, India, and Taiwan in New Delhi.

Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF)

• About: GCTF is a platform to utilize Taiwan's strengths and expertise to address global issues of mutual concerns.
• Establishment:  In 2015
• Multilateral Cooperation: The GCTF actively supports capacity building in Indo-Pacific nations through training programs for officials and experts, contributing to the enhancement of Taiwan's multilateral cooperation.
• Global Participation: More than 7,000 government officials, experts, and civil society representatives from 126 countries have actively participated in GCTF workshops, fostering a diverse and inclusive platform for collaboration.
• Expansion of Partnerships: Japan joined as a full partner in 2019, cohosting all GCTF workshops.
• Australian Full Partnership: In 2021, Australia announced its full partnership with the GCTF, further strengthening the collaborative efforts and initiatives undertaken by the forum.
• Joint Committee Meetings: The full partners, currently comprising Taiwan, the United States, Japan, and Australia, convene GCTF Joint Committee meetings.

 
Defence Cyber Agency (DCyA)

• About: DCyA is a tri-service command of the Indian military. 
• Headquarters: New Delhi, the agency is tasked with handling and defeating cyber security threats.
• The DCyA draws personnel from all three branches of the Indian military. 
• The DCyA head is a two-star rank officer who reports to the CDS through the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS).