The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in partnership with the Data Security Council of India (DSCI), has launched the second edition of the Cyber Security Grand Challenge (CSGC 2.0) with a prize fund of ₹6.85 crores. The challenge, now open for registrations until February 14, 2025, aims to encourage innovative solutions in areas like API security, data protection, wearable privacy, clone app mitigation, AI threat detection, and biometric security.
Key Features and Stages of CSGC 2.0
CSGC 2.0 invites startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs to address critical cybersecurity challenges. Participants will maintain intellectual property rights over their solutions. The competition includes four stages: Idea, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), Final Product, and Go-to-Market. Startups can win prizes at each stage, with ₹5 lakh awarded at the Idea Stage, ₹10 lakh at MVP, and ₹25 lakh at the Final Product Stage for each problem area. At the Go-to-Market Stage, the Platinum Winner will receive ₹1 crore, with Gold and Silver winners earning ₹50 lakh and ₹25 lakh, respectively.
Supporting India’s Digital Goals
The initiative aligns with MeitY’s broader vision of a secure digital future, fostering innovation in line with the goals of Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Viksit Bharat. Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, emphasized the importance of this initiative in helping startups develop cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions to safeguard India’s digital landscape.
