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India trains more ethical hackers than anywhere else. It just can't give them a reason to stay

Aug 23, 2026 · 14m

Summary

This episode explores India’s cybersecurity paradox, where a surplus of ethical hackers contrasts with a severe shortage of retained professionals. It highlights how young researchers like Nisarka Adhikari expose critical flaws in government systems, yet face limited career prospects domestically. The discussion covers new initiatives like IIT Kanpur’s cybersecurity degree and the structural issues driving talent to Global Capability Centers. Ultimately, it argues that India must reform its employment models to keep this vital workforce.

Topics discussed

Nisarka Adhikari's CBSE hack and India's cybersecurity talent paradox IIT Kanpur's new cybersecurity degree and government recruitment Indian hackers dominate global bounties but are ignored domestically GCCs drain talent; government offers low pay or short contracts Government shifts from prevention to resilience against AI threats Title inflation in consulting and the failure of outsourced audits Banks building internal capabilities vs state's temporary work model
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