Delhi: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has awarded Team Ajna as the Second Runner-Up in the prestigious Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC), an initiative by the MeitY aimed at fostering indigenous innovation in web browsing technology. The challenge was launched under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative to develop a secure and robust web browser tailored to India’s digital landscape.
Among 434 registered teams across the nation, the 2023 Startup, Ajna, stood out for its extraordinary technical talent and ingenuity, winning a cash award of ₹50 lakhs. The prize money was awarded in recognition of the startup’s outstanding contribution towards India’s digital independence and secure browsing ecosystem.
Bharat Web Navigator is the world’s first and only browser with built-in support for non-custodial Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI). The main feature of their browser enables users to manage their digital identities securely and independently.
Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the winners at a ceremony in New Delhi, congratulating the efforts of startups toward India’s future. Speaking on the occasion during the award ceremony, he reiterated the vision of the government in transforming India from being a “service nation” to a “product nation” with local digital solutions. Ajna’s foresighted browser, designed with improved security, privacy compliance, and multi-platform capabilities, supports the vision and reinforces India’s push toward digital sovereignty.
Expressing his excitement, Mr. Vinay Singh, the Founder of Ajna Inc., stated, “This recognition reaffirms our vision towards creating a safe, India-first internet experience. We are happy to help the country become digitally self-sufficient and look forward to further refining our product for mass adoption.”
Speaking on the importance of an Indigenous browser, Vinay highlighted, “International browsers often overlook requests from Indian authorities to ban certain sites. In response to this, developing our own Indian-made browser would not only ensure better alignment with local laws and guidelines but also guarantee support from Indian authorities. Furthermore, in any situation, if global tech giants, like Google block Indian users from accessing their services, having a self-reliant, locally developed browser would make us independent and resilient in the digital space.”
Bharat Web Navigator has onboard high-level security features, seamless compatibility on various platforms (iOS, Windows, and Android). Additionally, the browser provides a dedicated trust store with CCA India Root certification for enhanced security, along with Parental controls and child-friendly browsing to ensure safe internet usage.
