Raju Narayana Swamy has called for a shift in cyber security strategy from a reactive to a proactive approach, stressing the growing importance of advanced technologies in tackling emerging threats in the age of artificial intelligence.

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Speaking at Bodhi 2026 held at Rajagiri College in Kochi, the Kerala Principal Secretary said organisations must move beyond conventional defence systems and adopt cutting-edge solutions powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.

Addressing the theme “Cyber Security in the Age of AI”, Swamy highlighted the role of AI-driven, self-learning applications in transforming digital security frameworks. He noted that next-generation firewall systems are becoming increasingly context-aware, capable of analysing both inbound and outbound communications to block malicious activity while allowing legitimate data flow.

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He outlined a three-pronged strategy for strengthening cyber security: enhancing traditional network-level (Layer 3) protections with application-level (Layer 7) solutions, adopting a forward-looking approach to network defence, and investing in future-ready technologies that anticipate evolving threats.

Swamy also touched upon developments in quantum computing, describing it as a fusion of quantum physics and computer science. Referring to physicist Richard Feynman, he noted predictions that invisible, highly advanced computing systems could emerge before 2050.

He pointed out that while governments and industries are investing heavily in quantum technologies, significant technical challenges remain, particularly the issue of “noise” — interference caused by external particles such as photons, which can disrupt quantum systems.

“Quantum computing changes the focus from how humans compute to how the universe computes,” he said.

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The session concluded with a reflection on reality in the context of augmented and virtual reality, quoting Morpheus: “If you are talking about what you can feel, smell, taste and see, then real is simply electrical signals interpreted by your brain.”

The event was presided over by Prof. Fr. Saju.