ABSTRACT

This dissertation explores the connection between supply chain disruption, privacy, and data security in India’s e-commerce sector, highlighting the challenges presented by cyber threats and data breaches. It evaluates existing data protection practices, assesses the impact of cyber incidents on supply chain resilience, and offers suggestions for mitigation strategies using secondary data from government regulations and industry publications, as well as case studies on Paytm Mall and Big Basket. The findings reveal serious weaknesses brought about by the unequal implementation of regulatory frameworks like the Digital India project and the CERT-In recommendations, which have an impact on operational stability and consumer trust. The suggestions’ primary objectives are to increase cyber security awareness, promote public-private partnerships for adaptable data protection measures, and strengthen the enforcement of cyber security regulations to ensure supply chains continue uninterrupted. This research supports supply chain strategies and cyber risk management in e-commerce by providing workable solutions to protect India’s digital market, sustain development, and maintain competitive advantage in the face of evolving cyber threats.

Keywords: Cyber security, supply chain disruption, Data breaches, Cyber-attacks.

CHAPTER ONE – INTRODUCTION 

1.0 Background to the study

Disruptions in the e-commerce supply chain in India, caused by unexpected events create major challenges because the industry depends on intricate digital systems and worldwide networks(Patel, 2023). These disruptions can rapidly affect the entire supply chain, encompassing procurement, inventory management, logistics, payment processing, and last-mile delivery. Supplier delays may result in inventory shortages, causing order postponements that can significantly diminish customer satisfaction. Logistical obstacles like as transportation delays or clogged ports in India can result in delayed delivery, adversely impacting customer relationships and potentially damaging the entire reputation of enterprises in the e-commerce sector.(Zhang et al., 2020).

Cybersecurity threats present considerable challenges, especially for e-commerce platforms and banking systems, particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks like DDoS attacks (Badotra and Sundas, 2021). These can mess up operations and put sensitive customer data at risk, leading to financial losses and damage to reputation over time. Since consumer trust is important in today’s competitive market, security breaches can seriously turn customers away, which affects sales and market share(Saeed, 2023). Because companies in India may have to use expedited shipping or other suppliers to satisfy client demands, these disruptions can raise operating expenses and make inventory control and financial stability more difficult. While a lack of stock can result in stockouts and lower sales, businesses may keep larger inventories to minimise disruptions, tying up money and raising storage expenses(Jauhar et al., 2023). The e-commerce industry in India confronts difficulties because of the country’s varied topography, varying degrees of infrastructure, and quickly changing legislative environmentrequire an integrated strategy that can be informed by literature review and comparative analysis (Singh 2019).

Supply chain problems are made worse by logistical obstacles including poor road infrastructure and few last-mile delivery choices, which raise costs and make delivery schedules more difficult. Considering the logistical challenges unique to India, methodologies that integrate real-time tracking technology and strategic planning, as discussed by Sahu, Pani, and Santos (2022), are relevant for enhancing operational efficiencies. Businesses need to stay flexible by investing in technology for improved visibility and real-time tracking, as well as revising their plans in reaction to new requirements. Making cybersecurity in India a top priority is crucial to defending against the growing threat of cyberattacks. Theoretical discussions regarding cybersecurity management are essential for safeguarding consumer data and preserving trust (Khan, 2019). A comprehensive strategy is needed to manage e-commerce supply chain interruptions in India, which involves anticipating cybersecurity threats, making sure supplier and logistical networks are strong, and controlling customer expectations. The example and theoretical study offer frameworks for resilience and flexibility (Chawla and Kumar, 2021). Businesses must foresee disturbances, create strategic plans for mitigating them, and remain flexible to overcome obstacles (Sudan and Taggar, 2021). Maintaining long-term growth, earning the trust of clients, and gaining a competitive edge in the ever-changing e-commerce industry in India all depend on proactive management.