Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology Launches Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology Launches Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0. The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), in association with the Data Security Council of India (DSCI), has officially launched the second edition of the Cyber Security Grand Challenge (CSGC 2.0). With a combined prize pool of ₹6.85 crore, this initiative aims to bolster India’s cybersecurity capabilities by fostering innovation in key areas like API Security, Data Protection, Wearable Privacy, AI Threat Detection, and Biometric Security.
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology Launches Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0
Registration Details
The registration for CSGC 2.0 is open from January 15 to February 14, 2025. We encourage innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs to participate by submitting their solutions to tackle some of the most pressing cybersecurity challenges.
More details and registration information can be found at: Cyber Security Grand Challenge.
Key Focus Areas of CSGC 2.0
The six critical problem statement areas of the Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0 are:
- API Security
- Data Protection
- Wearable Privacy
- Clone App Mitigation
- AI Threat Detection and Incident Response
- Biometric Security
Each of these areas requires innovative solutions that address current cybersecurity challenges. The initiative not only promotes technological advancements but also encourages the development of homegrown, secure digital solutions aligned with national goals like Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Viksit Bharat.
Increased Prize Pool and Stages
One of the highlights of CSGC 2.0 is its substantial increase in total prize money, which has risen to ₹6.85 crore from ₹3.2 crore in the first edition. The challenge will run through multiple stages, providing participants with continuous support at each level.
Stages of CSGC 2.0:
- Idea Stage: At this stage, 36 startups will be recognized, with each receiving ₹5 lakh.
- Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Stage: 18 startups will move to this stage, each receiving ₹10 lakh.
- Final Product Stage: At this stage, winners for each of the six problem statements will be declared, with each receiving ₹25 lakh.
- Go-to-Market Stage: The ultimate stage where the Platinum Winner will receive ₹1 crore, and Gold and Silver Winners will receive ₹50 lakh and ₹25 lakh respectively.
Unique Feature: IPR Ownership
A distinctive aspect of CSGC 2.0 is the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) ownership. Startups retain ownership of the products they develop under this challenge, providing them with long-term benefits for their innovations.
Mentorship and Capability Building
The initiative focuses on not only encouraging innovation but also building the capabilities of startups. Participants will receive technical and business mentorship to help them evolve into successful ventures. This ensures that the solutions developed are market-ready and capable of addressing real-world cybersecurity threats.
Also Read – Establishment of the National Turmeric Board
Conclusion
The Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0 is a pivotal step towards enhancing India’s cybersecurity infrastructure. By providing significant financial incentives and robust mentorship, the initiative seeks to empower startups and entrepreneurs to develop innovative cybersecurity solutions. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, challenges like these are essential for safeguarding India’s digital future.
