As funding slows and economic uncertainty grows, Indian startups are finding smart ways to cut expenses. One major focus is reducing cloud storage costs, a critical part of any tech business.
Startups Slash Cloud Costs by Renegotiating Deals
Many startups are renegotiating contracts with top cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. Some companies have successfully reduced their cloud expenses by 20% to 30%, while fast-growing platforms like Meesho and Dealshare have managed to cut costs by as much as 50%.
This intense competition has sparked a pricing war among the biggest cloud players. Startups are often approached by AWS rivals, offering lower prices to attract them. Some founders are even using competitive quotes from Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure to negotiate better deals with their primary provider, AWS.
For many startups, cutting cloud costs is essential to managing cash flow and staying lean in a challenging market.
Cybersecurity Talent Shortage and the 5G Effect
While startups focus on cost-saving, there’s another pressing challenge — the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals. The Data Security Council of India predicts that India will need nearly one million cybersecurity experts by 2025.
The demand for cloud security skills is also booming, expected to grow by 115% between 2020 and 2025. This translates to around 20,000 new job openings in cloud security alone.
The rollout of 5G networks brings additional security risks, making it even more critical for businesses and telecom operators to invest in robust security teams.
However, the availability of skilled cybersecurity professionals in India remains limited. As industry experts warn:
"India’s digital growth is outpacing its cybersecurity workforce, leaving businesses exposed. Closing this talent gap is vital for a secure future."
Upskilling for a Secure Future
Telecom giants like Bharti Airtel are taking steps to address this shortage. They offer free training programs such as CCNA and CCNP certifications to help employees build their security skills.
Reskilling and upskilling are key strategies to ensure businesses can handle future security threats, especially with the increasing complexity of 5G networks and cloud environments.
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Conclusion: Smart Cost-Cutting and Security Go Hand in Hand
Indian startups are proving that it’s possible to reduce cloud costs while preparing for a secure digital future. Through smart negotiations with service providers and investments in cybersecurity talent, businesses can stay resilient in today’s competitive environment.
Even if we do not talk about 5G (specifically), the security talent in general in the country is very sparse at the moment. We need to get more (security) professionals in the system.