Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology Launches Indian Web Browser Development Challenge to Foster Indigenous Innovation

The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at driving homegrown technological prowess with the launch of the Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC). The grand inauguration took place at the prestigious India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, marking a significant stride towards bolstering India’s digital sovereignty.

Distinguished figures from the technology realm graced the event, including Sunita Verma, Scientist G & Group Coordinator (R&D in Electronics & Information Technology), Arvind Kumar, Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) at MeitY, and Dr. S. D. Sudarshan, Executive Director of C-DAC Bangalore. These luminaries jointly inaugurated the challenge, ceremoniously unfolding the challenge brochure on the esteemed podium.

Spearheaded collaboratively by MeitY, CCA, and C-DAC Bangalore, the Indian Web Browser Development Challenge is set to inspire and empower tech enthusiasts, innovators, and developers hailing from every corner of the nation. The challenge’s audacious goal is to craft an indigenous web browser that boasts its own trust store, complete with an inbuilt CCA India root certificate. This visionary browser will showcase cutting-edge functionalities and a robust shield of enhanced security and data privacy protection features.

In a resounding commitment to inclusivity, the proposed browser places paramount importance on accessibility and user-friendliness, ensuring seamless support for individuals with diverse abilities. Adding another layer of innovation, the browser aspires to enable digital document signing via a crypto token, fortifying secure transactions and digital interactions.

During the event, Sunita Verma, Scientist G & Group Coordinator (R&D in Electronics & IT), conveyed the resonating message of Alkesh Kumar Sharma, Secretary of MeitY, highlighting how this challenge is a monumental stride towards realizing the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat—a self-reliant India—in the digital realm. The challenge’s significance lies in addressing a critical component of the digital landscape, the web browser, which forms the conduit through which end-users access the vast expanses of the internet.

Verma emphasized that the technological evolution ushered in by Digital India has been pivotal in transforming the nation, empowering its citizens, fueling economic growth, and enhancing overall governance. As India looks ahead, the integration of technology and the promotion of indigenous innovation stand as linchpins in the journey towards a self-reliant and digitally empowered India. She extended an earnest invitation to the creative minds across the nation, beckoning academia, industry, startups, and individuals to actively engage in the challenge and craft an innovative web browser that proudly carries the “Made in India” emblem for global users.

Arvind Kumar, CCA at MeitY, underscored the pivotal role played by CCA in ensuring the trustworthiness and security of digital certificates issued in India. He highlighted the challenge the nation faces in relying on SSL certificates issued by foreign entities. The initiation of developing a browser infused with an inbuilt India Root Certificate is poised to transcend this challenge, propelling India towards internet resilience—a crucial capability to withstand and recover from disruptions and threats that may impact the nation’s internet infrastructure and connectivity.

S. D. Sudarshan, Executive Director of C-DAC Bangalore, intricately laid out the framework of the challenge competition. The event promises inclusivity, welcoming participants from all walks of life to submit their innovative ideas. The competition unfolds in three riveting rounds, commencing with the ideation phase, where 18 entries will be chosen to proceed. The second round will see 8 finalists vying for the ultimate victory, and the crowning moment will reveal the winner, first runner-up, and second runner-up. Throughout this exciting journey, participants will benefit from comprehensive technical mentorship.

The reward is as grand as the challenge itself, with a total prize pool of Rs. 3.41 crore awaiting distribution. The grand champion will receive a magnificent Rs. One crore, along with further support to propel the developed browser to even greater heights.

The launch program resonated across both virtual and physical platforms, attracting the participation of over 200 stakeholders, including representatives from government departments, industry leaders, startups, and academia. An illuminating panel discussion provided an avenue for participants to engage directly with MeitY, CCA, and C-DAC officials, addressing pertinent queries and sharing insights.

The launch event culminated with a fervent call to action, rallying innovative minds nationwide to wholeheartedly participate in the challenge and forge a path towards an indigenously crafted Indian Web Browser—a symbol of technological prowess and sovereignty on the global stage.