Zoho Triumphs in India’s Web Browser Challenge, Paving the Way for Digital Independence

Zoho Corporation has won the Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC), an initiative by MeitY to create a secure, homegrown web browser aligned with India’s Data Protection Act. The challenge received 434 team registrations, with Team PING and Team Ajna securing second and third places, respectively. Jio Vishwakarma earned a special mention for its cross-platform design. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted this as a major step toward India’s digital self-reliance.

The browser will support Windows, iOS, and Android, featuring a CCA Root certificate trust store, built-in digital signing, parental controls, Web3 compatibility, and multilingual support. The government aims to boost India’s product-driven tech industry, shifting from a service-based economy. Vaishnaw urged startups to develop globally competitive products, reducing reliance on foreign technologies. The initiative reinforces India’s vision of becoming a ‘Product Nation’, encouraging local innovation.

Zoho Triumphs in India’s Web Browser Challenge, Paving the Way for Digital Independence

India is advancing toward digital independence with the successful completion of the Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC), a government-led initiative to develop a secure, homegrown web browser. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the competition aimed to create a browser that complies with India’s data protection laws, ensuring user privacy and regulatory adherence.

On March 20, 2025, Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the winners at an event celebrating innovation and technical excellence. He praised the participants for their creativity and highlighted the competition as a pivotal step in India’s journey toward technological self-reliance. “This initiative reflects our commitment to building a digital ecosystem rooted in security and homegrown innovation,” Vaishnaw stated.

Winners and Participation

The challenge received an overwhelming response, with 434 teams registering from across the country. After rigorous evaluation across three stages—Ideation, Prototype, and Productization—eight finalists presented their browsers to a panel of experts. The top awards went to:

• Zoho Corporation – First place, winning ₹1 crore for their robust and user-friendly browser.
• Team PING – Second place, receiving ₹75 lakh for their advanced security features.
• Team Ajna – Third place, awarded ₹50 lakh for their emphasis on accessibility.
• Jio Vishwakarma – Special recognition for their cross-platform compatibility across devices and operating systems.

Vaishnaw also noted that many participants came from smaller towns, highlighting the depth of India’s technological talent beyond major metropolitan areas.

Why an Indian Web Browser Matters

A homegrown browser is crucial for protecting national data sovereignty. By ensuring that user data remains within India’s borders, the browser will comply with the Data Protection Act and reduce dependence on foreign platforms that may not adhere to local regulations. Designed for Windows, iOS, and Android, the browser will prioritize security and inclusivity with features such as:

• Integration of India’s official digital security certificate (CCA Root) for secure connections.
• Built-in digital signing tools to enhance trust in online transactions.
• Parental controls for safer browsing experiences for children.
• Support for Web3 technologies, preparing users for the future of decentralized internet.
• Compatibility with all Indian languages, ensuring accessibility for a diverse population.

India’s Shift to a Product-Driven Tech Economy

The IWBDC aligns with the government’s broader vision of transforming India into a global technology leader through product innovation. For years, India’s IT sector has been synonymous with service-based outsourcing. However, initiatives like this challenge aim to shift the focus toward developing world-class products that can compete internationally. Vaishnaw encouraged startups and businesses to prioritize scalable solutions, emphasizing that India’s young and talented workforce has the potential to drive this transformation.

Looking Ahead

The development of an Indian web browser marks a major milestone in the nation’s push for technological self-sufficiency. It not only strengthens data security but also empowers local developers to create solutions for both domestic and global audiences. By fostering homegrown talent and encouraging product-centric innovation, India is on track to become a “Product Nation”, reducing reliance on foreign technology and making its mark on the global tech landscape.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to digital empowerment, ensuring that India’s technological progress is inclusive, secure, and aligned with its future aspirations.