FICCI–LTTS White Paper calls for unified cybersecurity strategies for urban and critical infrastructure in the digital era
New Delhi, July 24, 2025 – “Urbanization is not just about providing housing; it’s about ensuring ease of living,” emphasized Ms. D Thara, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Government of India, at the FICCI Urban Challenge Summit & Urban Innovations Awards 2025.
Calling for a paradigm shift in how urbanization is understood, Ms. Thara noted that India is set to witness in the next 20 years the same scale of urbanization it saw in the last century. “We must reimagine how we view land use, balance urban development with the conservation of rural and agricultural areas, and systematically densify our cities. A contextualized, customized approach is essential for the urban sector,” she said.
Speaking on the summit’s theme “Innovate, Integrate, Sustain,” she stressed the need to prioritize quality of living, not just financial considerations, while shaping urban policy. She also highlighted ongoing government efforts to rejuvenate historic and business city cores, focusing on revitalizing urban environments while preserving cultural heritage. “High-impact transformational projects can fix legacy infrastructure and revitalize cities, which are the economic engines of the country,” she added.
Urban Development Key to India’s Growth
Dr. O.P. Agarwal, Advisor, FICCI Working Group on Urban Development and Distinguished Fellow, NITI Aayog, underscored the importance of innovation in urban development. “The urban sector is fundamental to India’s future growth and demands innovative approaches,” he said.
Mr. Vipul Roongta, Co-Chair, FICCI Committee on Urban Development & Real Estate and MD & CEO, HDFC Capital Advisors Ltd, stressed that “housing and urban development must progress simultaneously to ensure livability and affordability go hand in hand.”
Mr. J.V.S. Ramakrishna, Co-Chair, FICCI Committee on Urban Development & Real Estate and Global BU Head – Sustainable World, L&T Technology Services Ltd, highlighted the impact of the Smart Cities Mission in enhancing urban infrastructure, public safety, mobility, water supply, and healthcare through smart technologies, sustainable solutions, and community participation.
Cybersecurity for Urban and Critical Infrastructure
During the summit, FICCI and L&T Technology Services (LTTS) released a white paper titled “Protecting Urban & Critical Infrastructure with Threat Intelligence.” The report emphasizes the urgent need for unified action, informed strategies, and innovative technologies to safeguard urban and critical infrastructure in an era of rapid digital transformation.
The 6th edition of the FICCI Urban Innovation Awards was also announced, recognizing groundbreaking solutions that address India’s evolving urban challenges.
Other notable speakers included Mr. Vikas Aggarwal, Partner – Consulting, Government & Public Sector, E&Y LLP; Mr. Jagan Shah, CEO, Infravision Foundation and former Director, National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA); and Ms. Manisha Natarajan, Journalist and Communications Strategist for Real Estate & Sustainable Built Environment.
About FICCI Urban Challenge Summit & Urban Innovation Awards
The FICCI Urban Challenge Summit serves as a platform to drive dialogue on the future of Indian cities, focusing on sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven urban growth. The Urban Innovation Awards celebrate excellence and innovative practices that improve quality of life in cities.
