Patna: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Patna organised its first-ever awareness programme on cyber hygiene, cyber security, and digital personal data protection on Friday. The programme, held at the AIIMS Patna Auditorium, aimed to educate doctors, students, officers, and staff about safe digital practices and the importance of protecting sensitive information. It also focused on compliance with the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, which governs how personal data should be handled.
The event began with a welcome address from Executive Director Prof. (Brig.) Dr. Raju Agarwal, who highlighted the growing importance of cyber security in hospitals and clinics. With more patient records and healthcare services going digital, he said, everyone in the medical community must be aware of how to keep data safe. The programme was attended by Medical Superintendent Anup Kumar, Dean (Academics) Prof. (Dr.) Poonam Bhadani, Deputy Director (Administration) Nilotpal Bal, faculty members, students, and staff.
During the programme, the leaders stressed that cyber security is a shared responsibility. They said following cyber hygiene practices is essential to prevent cyber attacks and protect patient information. “Every staff member, from doctors to administrative officers, plays a role in ensuring data safety,” said the speakers. They also pointed out that cyber security is not just about computers or IT systems; it affects clinical, academic, and administrative work as well.
Technical sessions were led by Dr. Pallam Gopi Chand, Deputy Faculty In-charge IT, who introduced the experts. Mr. Alvin Antony from Govern AI, New Delhi, spoke about the DPDP Act and what healthcare professionals need to do to stay compliant. Mr. Saket Jha, Scientist ‘C’ at CDAC Patna, discussed cyber threats and how institutions can build resilience in the digital age. The sessions provided practical advice and strategies to prevent cyber attacks and protect sensitive data.
The programme ended with a vote of thanks from Dr. Abhyuday Kumar, IT Faculty In-charge. AIIMS Patna said it will continue to promote cyber security awareness and create a safer digital environment for everyone in the hospital. The initiative is a step towards ensuring that patient data remains secure while healthcare services continue to grow digitally.
