The Ministry of Electronics & 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), as announced in a press release by the Ministry on Wednesday.

The initiative aims to enhance India’s cybersecurity capabilities, addressing critical areas for a more secure digital future. The total prize pool has been significantly increased to Rs. 6.85 crores, up from Rs. 3.2 crores in the first edition.

CSGC 2.0 invites innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs to tackle six major cybersecurity challenges: API Security, Data Security, Wearable Device Security, Fake App Mitigation, AI for Threat Detection, and Biometric Systems Security.

A unique feature of this challenge is that the intellectual property rights (IPR) for solutions developed will remain with the respective startups.

The competition is structured into four stages, viz. Idea, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), Final Product, and Go-to-Market. Winners in each of the six problem areas will receive Rs. 25 lakh each at the Final Stage. The overall Platinum Winner will be awarded Rs.1 crore, while Gold and Silver Winners will receive Rs.50 lakh and Rs.25 lakh, respectively.

MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan emphasized that the initiative aligns with Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, encouraging home-grown cybersecurity innovations.