New Delhi: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a nationwide call for research project proposals in key thrust areas of cybersecurity, with an emphasis on indigenous technology development and innovation. The Cyber Security Group under MeitY will offer Grants-in-Aid to researchers and institutions working in the domain, with an aim to transform novel ideas into scalable solutions and products.
The initiative targets productization and pilot-scale deployment within a defined timeline, specifically encouraging proposals that can reach Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 or higher within 24 months.
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Thrust Areas: From Women and Children’s Safety to Quantum-Ready Systems
The call outlines multiple priority domains for proposal submissions, including both emerging and critical sectors:
- Cyber Security for Women and Children:
Development of mobile and app-based technological solutions to tackle distress, abuse, and malicious online behavior, ensuring digital safety. - Hardware and Drone Security:
Focus on space and UAV (drone) forensics and protection systems to mitigate unauthorized access or tampering. - Cyber Security in Critical Infrastructure:
Covers energy, transportation, banking, finance, telecom, defence, government services, and includes VPN detection and deanonymisation. - Encryption and Cryptography:
Projects on quantum cyber-ready systems and advanced encryption protocols. - Cybersecurity in Artificial Intelligence:
Addressing security within AI systems and through AI for detecting and preventing threats. - Vehicle and Autonomous Vehicle Security:
Solutions for sensor assurance, network protection, and vehicular forensics.
Who Can Apply: Academia, R&D Labs, and Consortia
The program is open to:
Researchers, scientists, technologists, and faculty members from
- Universities & academic institutions
- Government R&D labs
- Registered scientific societies & autonomous bodies
Proposals may be submitted by individual institutions or through a consortium model with clearly defined milestones, timelines, and institutional roles.
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Proposal Requirements: Outcome-Oriented with User Support
Applicants must ensure their proposals include:
- Well-defined objectives and quantifiable deliverables
- A specific time frame for completion
- Preferably a user agency or industry partner offering in-kind or financial support
Evaluation and Selection Process
An Expert Working Group on Cyber Security will assess proposals for technical feasibility and financial viability. Selected projects will be recommended for funding based on alignment with MeitY’s national priority areas.
- Emphasis will be placed on new technology development, prototype creation, and early-stage commercialization potential.
- Preference will be given to solutions ready for pilot trials, field deployment, or commercialization within two years.
Submission Deadline and Process
- Last date: 15th September 2025
- Submission format: Soft copy only
- Email: gauravg@gov.in
- Subject line: “Proposal for Research in Cyber Security”
- Proforma Link: MeitY Proposal Format
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further communication.