Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)  launches the second edition of its flagship Cyber Security Grand Challenge i.e. CSGC 2.0 by Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY. CSGC 2.0 is being implemented by the Data Security Council of India (DSCI). This time it boats a grand prize money of INR 6.85 crore from INR  3.2 crores compared to its first edition, making it one of the most attractive and rewarding cybersecurity challenges in the nation.

The initiative aims to bolster the nation's cybersecurity competencies and capability building in key areas paving the way for a more secure digital future. 

The 6 areas

As part of the Grand Challenge, participants are tasked with developing solutions addressing six key problem areas: 

1. API security 
2. Data security
3. Wearable device security and privacy
4. Clone and fake app mitigation 
5. AI for threat detection and incident response
6. Securing next-generation biometric systems

The Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) of the product being developed as part of the challenge will rest with the respective startup. 

Reab about the latest workshop organized by MeitY on Cybersecurity at: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Organises 'Cyber Security Workshop’ to Strengthen the State Government Departments

Stages in CSGC 2.0

The challenge consists of several stages that the startups have to cross. Throughout the challenge, startups will be provided with technical and business mentorship, helping them mature into successful ventures. This time the challenge consists of 4 stages:

1. Idea
2. Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
3. Final Product Stage
4. Go-to-Market Stage 

Innovative Cybersecurity solutions 

Launching the Grand Challenge 2.0, Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, said, “The Cyber Security Grand Challenge 2.0 is a major government-backed initiative with a significant amount of prize money of INR 6.85 crores and a focus on recognizing startups offering innovative cybersecurity solutions. The problem statements are current and in sync with the latest cybersecurity threat landscape. This initiative will provide mentorship, capability-building, and market access, aligning with the goals of Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Viksit Bharat. I hope the participants and winners will lead change and bring out homegrown innovative security solutions to empower India’s digital journey”.

To know more about India's position in Cybersecurity, read Indian Business Leaders Top The Charts with a Readiness of 35% in Combating Cybersecurity Threats