The state of OT security in India
India’s industrial sector is undergoing rapid digital transformation. Operational Technology (OT) systems, once isolated, are now deeply integrated with enterprise networks, unlocking unprecedented efficiency but also simultaneously expanding the cyber attack surface.
The Deloitte India‑DSCI joint study highlights that while awareness of OT threats is growing, preparedness remains fragmented. Legacy infrastructure, IT‑OT silos and skill shortages are creating systemic vulnerabilities.
Why OT security matters now
Organisations are increasingly recognising the urgency of protecting operational technology; yet the reality on the ground is far more complex. Threat actors are evolving faster than defences, exploiting legacy protocols, insecure remote access paths and supply chain dependencies to infiltrate industrial networks. Technical inertia, decades old PLCs and HMIs built for reliability rather than security, combined with entrenched IT-OT silos, amplify the risk and leave critical systems exposed. More than 45 percent of OT security budgets are currently devoted to tools, such as network segmentation and OT aware firewalls, reflecting a technology first approach while governance frameworks and cultural readiness lag.
Roadmap to OT resilience
Securing OT environments requires immediate, actionable steps and a forward looking strategy. Organisations must start by addressing foundational gaps, such as visibility, access control and network segmentation, while preparing for evolving threats through governance, supply chain assurance and cultural readiness. Beyond quick wins, future ready priorities, such as Zero Trust, legacy modernisation and workforce capability, will define resilience in the cyber physical era.
Explore our report
Discover how OT security can empower businesses to integrate resilience into transformation, enhance operational trust and lead confidently in the cyber‑physical era. Learn how Deloitte India can help you on your OT security journey.
