India practices a 'multi-alignment' approach in its cyber diplomacy. How does this posture strengthen India's internal security while maintaining strategic autonomy? (Answer in 150 words)

Multi-alignment approach in Indian cyber diplomacy showcases its maximising security and minimising antagonism in hyper-connected world order. Multi-alignment cyber-diplomacy: 1. Maximum engagement with major powers - US, UK, China - within regulating cross-border data flows. 2. Strategic autonomy to restrict risky & dangerous flows (eg Ban on Chinese TikTok). 3. Strengthening Intelligence network:- Cyber coordination Centre. 4. Ensuring Accountability of digital service provides:- IT Rules 2021 on safe harbour norms for due-diligence.

5. Data-storage red lines eg. In UK Freetrads agreement - agreements on internal data-storage. Challenges in this posture: 1. Diffused cyber attacks:- eg West-Union Bank SWIFT cyber-attack in 2011. 2. Chinese Dependency on chinese supply chains for electronic products. 3. limited cyber engagement with powers like US, UK, Japan. 4. Poor cyber-security infrastructure & outdated laws (IT Ad 2008). Measures required: 1. Strengthening legal framework. 2. Global collaboration for post-sovereign governance OECD. 3. Cyber Infrastructure strengthening (Rajesh Rai committee). Cyber space is emerging as new threat of 21st century. It must be guarded with intelligence, innovation & integrity.