Indian Government launches “Swadeshi Microprocessor Challenge”

The Indian Government is keen on developing a self-reliant country and is taking several steps to bring the innovative minds of India to light. On that note, Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad has launched a new initiative “Swadeshi Microprocessor Challenge” to give a boost to the startup ecosystem.

The challenge involves generating a hardware prototype using the microprocessor. This provides a great platform for students, innovators, and startups to show their talents and get funding in return. The challenge is initiated to not only create a self-reliant country but also to eradicate the various threats in fields like cybersecurity, licensing and to stop depending on imports.

The registration began on August 18 and the duration of the challenge is 10 months. The government will offer financial assistance in developing the hardware and will also help them incubate a startup. Prize money of Rs 1 crore will be awarded for 100 semifinalists. The top 10 teams will get Rs 2.3 Crore of seed fund and incubation support.

“Above all, participants will get an opportunity to translate their innovations around swadeshi processors, showcase them at a higher viewership platform and facilitate them to scale from ideation to marketplace, thereby standing a chance to contribute to the overall mission of AtmaNirbharta of the government,” the statement said.