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In a landmark initiative to combat the escalating threat of cybercrime, the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTR) in Chandigarh’s Sector 26 launched the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic on April 30, 2025. This state-of-the-art facility, established in collaboration with the Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC) and supported by Zscaler’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, aims to empower students, educators, law enforcement, and the community with the tools and knowledge to navigate the digital world securely.
Founded in 1967 under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, NITTR Chandigarh has long been a beacon of technical education, initially focused on enhancing polytechnic education across northern India. Over the decades, it has evolved into a premier institution offering programs in engineering, technology, rural development, and educational management, with robust national and international collaborations. The launch of the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic marks a new chapter in its legacy, building on the success of a similar initiative at Panjab University on March 4, 2025, which garnered widespread acclaim.
Zscaler, a global leader in cloud security founded in 2007 by Jay Chaudhry, plays a pivotal role in this initiative. With offices in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Mohali, and Pune, and seven data centers in India, Zscaler’s Zero Trust Exchange platform protects millions worldwide. Through its Social Impact Program, Zscaler bridges the digital divide by promoting cyber education and creating technology career opportunities for underserved communities. “Our partnership with NITTR and ISAC reflects our commitment to fostering a secure, equitable digital future,” said Karishma Bhuyan, Zscaler’s CSR Lead, at the launch.
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by the Zscaler ThreatLabz Phishing Report 2025, which identifies India as the most targeted country in the Asia Pacific for AI-powered cyberattacks. From phishing scams to identity theft and QR code frauds, cybercriminals are exploiting vulnerabilities at an alarming rate. Superintendent of Police (Chandigarh Cyber Cell) Smt. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, who graced the launch, highlighted local trends: “Scammers are now targeting expectant fathers with fake semen donation schemes, using malicious QR codes to siphon funds.” She emphasized Chandigarh Police’s efforts through cyber vans and the Cyber Swachhta Mission to educate vulnerable groups, particularly senior citizens, who are disproportionately affected, as revealed by a recent survey with NCC cadets.
The CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic offers a comprehensive suite of services to address these challenges. Awareness sessions educate participants on spotting phishing, identity theft, and online fraud, while hands-on training in ISAC’s Cyberange Cybersecurity Labs simulates real-world threats. The clinic also provides access to 26 ISAC-certified cybersecurity programs and advanced platforms like Breach Point Bug Bounty, EthixFirst Professional Ethics Rating, and the National Security Database. “This clinic is a game-changer, equipping individuals with both theoretical and practical skills,” said Associate Professor Shano Solanki, a key coordinator.
ISAC, a leading non-profit organization, drives the clinic’s technical backbone. Collaborating with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Defence, AICTE, CERT-In, and IIT Gandhinagar, ISAC promotes cybersecurity education, ethics, and research. Its platforms provide practical solutions, from bug bounty programs to ethical frameworks, ensuring participants are prepared for real-world challenges. Group Captain P. Anand Naidu of ISAC noted, “Our collaboration with NITTR and Zscaler strengthens India’s cybersecurity infrastructure, fostering resilience across sectors.”
Open Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, the clinic welcomes cybercrime victims and anyone seeking guidance. It also strengthens law enforcement capabilities through specialised training in cybercrime investigation. For immediate assistance, download the free ISAC CopConnect App to instantly connect with Cybercrime Intervention Officers and receive the help you need. With global cybercrime projected to cost $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, according to Cyber Crime Magazine, and a demand for 3.5 million cybersecurity professionals, the clinic positions Chandigarh as a leader in digital safety.
This collaborative effort between NITTR, ISAC, and Zscaler is a milestone in fostering a secure digital future. By empowering communities with cutting-edge expertise, the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic is paving the way for a more resilient India, ready to tackle the challenges of the digital age.