MeitY Launches ‘Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0’

 

 

The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) in association with DSCI has launched ‘Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0‘ with a combined prize money of Rs 6.85 Cr. Registrations have opened with last date February 14, 2025, for innovative solutions in API Security, Data Protection, Wearable Privacy, Clone App Mitigation, AI Threat Detection, and Biometric Security. The initiative focuses on strengthening the nation’s cybersecurity competencies and capability building in key areas paving the way for a more secure digital future. 

“This initiative will provide mentorship, capability-building and market access, aligning with the goals of Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat,” said S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY.

The MeitY has unveiled the Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0, a national-level initiative aimed at propelling innovation in cybersecurity solutions and nurturing India's startup ecosystem. This program underscores MeitY's commitment to strengthening India's digital infrastructure by empowering innovators and fostering collaborations that address emerging cybersecurity threats.

As part of its ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation’s growing digital ecosystem, the MeitY Cyber Security Initiative aims to provide a robust platform for startups, developers, and researchers to showcase and implement next-generation cybersecurity solutions. With the rapid adoption of digital technologies, this initiative reflects MeitY’s proactive approach to addressing vulnerabilities and reinforcing cybersecurity frameworks.

The Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0 is a continuation of MeitY's legacy of fostering innovation through competitive platforms. The initiative is designed to encourage participants to develop cutting-edge solutions addressing critical cybersecurity concerns, including data privacy, ransomware mitigation, secure cloud operations, and the protection of Internet of Things (IoT) networks. The challenge aligns with the Cyber Security Innovation Challenge 2025, reinforcing India’s ambition to become a global leader in cybersecurity technology.

MeitY Startup Challenge

A key highlight of this initiative is the MeitY Startup Challenge, which focuses on nurturing the country’s startup ecosystem by offering resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities. Participants will gain access to MeitY-supported incubators, expert guidance, and the opportunity to deploy their solutions in real-world environments. This emphasis on startups aligns with the government’s vision of promoting entrepreneurship and creating a self-reliant India under the Digital India initiative.

The grand challenge will invite participation from academic institutions, research organizations, and tech startups to collaborate on developing innovative cybersecurity solutions. By leveraging these diverse talents, MeitY aims to foster an ecosystem where collaboration and competition drive impactful advancements. This challenge is more than a competition—it is a call to action for India’s tech innovators to play a critical role in shaping a secure and robust digital future.