The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) today unveiled the second edition of its Cyber Security Grand Challenge (CSGC 2.0), launched by S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY. Implemented by the Data Security Council of India (DSCI), this initiative aims to bolster India’s cybersecurity capabilities and build resilience against emerging digital threats.
With a significant increase in prize money from INR 3.2 crores in its first edition to INR 6.85 crores, the Cyber Security Grand Challenge has positioned itself as one of the most lucrative cybersecurity contests in the country.
Key Features of CSGC 2.0
The challenge focuses on six critical problem areas:
- API Security
- Data Security
- Wearable Device Security and Privacy
- Clone and Fake App Mitigation
- AI for Threat Detection and Incident Response
- Securing Next-Generation Biometric Systems
A unique highlight of CSGC 2.0 is the ownership of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for solutions, which will remain with the startups participating in the challenge. This aligns with MeitY’s vision of fostering innovation while empowering entrepreneurs with complete control over their creations.
Challenge Structure and Rewards
The competition unfolds across four stages: Idea Stage, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), Final Product Stage, and the newly introduced Go-to-Market Stage.
- Idea Stage: 36 startups will be recognized, with each receiving INR 5 lakh.
- MVP Stage: 18 startups will be awarded INR 10 lakh each.
- Final Product Stage: Winners of the six problem areas will receive INR 25 lakh each.
- Go-to-Market Stage: The top-performing startups will compete for the grand prizes, including INR 1 crore for the Platinum Winner, INR 50 lakh for the Gold Winner, and INR 25 lakh for the Silver Winner.
Participants will receive mentorship at every stage, encompassing technical and business guidance to aid in their growth and success.
Launching the initiative, S. Krishnan stated, ‘The Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0 is a cornerstone for recognizing startups offering innovative solutions. With current problem statements aligned to the latest cybersecurity threat landscape, this initiative supports the goals of Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Viksit Bharat.’
Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, MeitY, emphasized the need for innovation, saying, ‘Emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing demand enhanced cybersecurity capabilities. This challenge serves as a platform to ideate and innovate cutting-edge solutions.’
DSCI CEO Vinayak Godse acknowledged MeitY’s commitment, saying, ‘The increased prize pool and government support encourage the development of transformative cybersecurity solutions.’
Registrations Open Now
Innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs are invited to participate in CSGC 2.0. Registrations and details are available at https://innovateindia.mygov.in/cyber-security-grand-challenge/.
With its comprehensive structure and focus on mentorship, CSGC 2.0 is poised to catalyze innovation and solidify India’s position in global cybersecurity.
