New Delhi, Dec 23: NIIT Foundation, a Delhi-based not-for-profit organisation, has unveiled the Cyber Suraksha Plus initiative, an advanced phase of its national cybersecurity skilling and awareness program Cyber Suraksha initiative. The five-time World Chess Champion and Padma Vibhushan awardee Viswanathan Anand, has been announced as the Ambassador of cybersecurity awareness initiatives of NIIT Foundation.
The collaboration aims to amplify public awareness on cybersecurity and responsible digital behaviour through storytelling, mentorship, and public campaigns that connect strategic thinking in chess with cyber vigilance in everyday life. Through this association, NIIT Foundation seeks to empower millions of learners, especially youth and vulnerable groups, to adopt safe digital practices and explore careers in cybersecurity.
“Cybersecurity is not just a technical skill but a civic responsibility. Through Grandmaster Anand’s association, NIIT Foundation hopes to bring this message closer to every household, encouraging people to think ahead, anticipate risks, and safeguard their digital presence with the same strategy and discipline that defines his game,” said Sapna Moudgil, CEO, NIIT Foundation.
Speaking on the occasion, Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, said, “Chess teaches us that foresight, preparation, and vigilance are key to avoiding traps, and the same applies to the digital world. I’m delighted to join NIIT Foundation in empowering people with the knowledge and confidence to stay secure online. Together, we can help India think strategically and act safely in its digital journey.”
The Cyber Suraksha Plus initiative, launched earlier this year, builds on the success of the original Cyber Suraksha program, which has already trained over 10 lakh learners across India. The new phase aims to train 27 lakh more by 2028, advancing from awareness to specialized career tracks in AI-driven security, system protection, and ransomware defence.
With Grandmaster Anand as its ambassador, NIIT Foundation hopes to make cybersecurity learning engaging and relatable, inspiring citizens to develop not only digital skills but also digital wisdom, thinking several moves ahead in an interconnected world.
About NIIT Foundation:
NIIT Foundation (NF) is a not-for-profit education society (NGO) set up by the promoters of NIIT in 2004. Its mission is to positively impact the underprivileged of the country through educational initiatives and skill development programs. NIIT Foundation, an Education NGO has a mandate to reach the unreached uncared and unattended to ensure inclusive development of India.
The intent of NF is to better understand the education and employability issues at the grassroots level. The organization builds corporate and NGO partnerships for sustainable development.
NIIT Foundation has set up skill development and vocational training centers in urban and rural areas that offer placement support to all eligible students. NIIT Foundation has been delivering projects ranging from customized CSR activities, school programs, college collaborations, community initiatives, career and skill development courses, digital literacy and financial literacy programs and more. NIIT Foundation educational programs also focus on enabling girls’ access to education and a career. All the programs are interactive and are designed to reach out to beneficiaries ranging from the age group of 6-60 years. In addition, NIIT Foundation supports other NGOs by providing training support and builds their capacity. Through its efforts, NIIT Foundation is striving towards closing the digital divide.