Call for
Project Proposals in Cyber Security
About Organisation
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), functioning under the Government of India, plays a pivotal role in driving the country’s digital and technological landscape. As an independent ministry, MeitY formulates and implements national-level policies and programs to support the consistent growth of the electronics and information technology sectors. Its core mission is to strengthen India’s capabilities in emerging tech domains while promoting innovation, digital governance, and inclusive access to IT services. The ministry’s vision extends to enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure, boosting indigenous research, and encouraging start-ups and enterprises to develop innovative tech-based solutions. MeitY actively engages with academic institutions, research bodies, and industry partners to create a digitally empowered society and knowledge-based economy.
Through initiatives in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software product development, digital inclusion, and electronics manufacturing, MeitY has continuously advanced India’s digital agenda. It also ensures that technological advancements align with national interests, including data privacy, public service delivery, and protection against cyber threats. The Cyber Security Group within MeitY specifically focuses on strengthening cyber infrastructure through cutting-edge research, indigenous product development, and secure digital ecosystems. This aligns with the broader objectives of national security, women’s and children’s safety online, and the resilience of critical sectors to cyber threats.
About the Grant
MeitY’s Cyber Security Group is inviting research proposals under its Grants-in-Aid initiative to promote indigenous technology development across a range of cybersecurity domains. The aim is to encourage innovations that lead to productization and practical solutions in key thrust areas. This grant focuses on developing cyber-secure solutions that address real-world problems, especially in contexts such as safety for women and children in cyberspace, secure hardware and mobile applications, and cybersecurity for critical infrastructure like energy, transportation, banking, and government services.
The proposals are expected to deliver technology-driven solutions such as mobile-based applications for distress handling, hardware and drone forensics, cybersecurity frameworks in artificial intelligence, secure networks in autonomous vehicles, and encryption models in quantum technology. The intention is to develop solutions that can be demonstrated or commercialized within a period of 24 months, achieving a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or above.
Projects will be evaluated for their innovation, scalability, and relevance to national cyber priorities. The supported proposals will be appraised by an expert committee and must show clear deliverables and milestones. This grant is an opportunity for institutions and researchers to contribute to India’s self-reliance in cybersecurity and strengthen digital trust across emerging technological domains.
Who can Apply?
The grant is open to researchers, scientists, engineers, technologists, and faculty members associated with recognized academic and research institutions across India. Eligible applicants must be affiliated with Universities, Academic Institutions, Registered Scientific Societies, R&D institutions, Government Laboratories, or Autonomous R&D organizations approved by competent authorities. Both individual institutions and consortia comprising multiple institutions may apply.
To qualify, applicants must propose research and development projects that fall within the defined thrust areas of MeitY’s Cyber Security Group. The proposals should lead to the development of innovative, indigenous technology that can be demonstrated or commercialized within a 24-month timeframe. Projects should aim to achieve a minimum Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or higher.
The proposed work should include clear objectives, defined deliverables, structured timelines, and measurable outcomes. Collaborative proposals under a consortium model must clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each participating institution.
Only institutions with the required infrastructure and expertise to carry out the proposed R&D will be considered. Proposals must also align with MeitY’s cybersecurity priorities and demonstrate potential for creating sustainable, scalable, and secure technological solutions that contribute to national digital resilience.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit their proposals using MeitY’s prescribed proforma. The completed proposal, duly forwarded by the Head of Institution, must be sent as a soft copy via email by the Chief Investigator to the designated address with the subject line “Proposal for Research in Cyber Security.” Proposals will be reviewed by an expert group for feasibility and evaluated on both technical and financial grounds before final approval.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 15th September 2025. Proposals received after this date or without the proper forwarding and subject line will not be considered for evaluation.
Last Date to Apply
The final date to submit proposals is 15th September 2025, and only applications received by email with the correct formatting and forwarding will be shortlisted for evaluation.
Grant Amount
The exact grant amount will be determined based on project scope, feasibility, and expert evaluation, with financial support allocated by MeitY as per the recommendations of the Cyber Security Working Group.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
