Indian Army Cyber Quest 2026 Registration Open Until August 20: Competition Format, Eligibility, Tracks and Key Dates

The Territorial Army, in collaboration with the CyberPeace Foundation, has opened registrations for the Indian Army Terrier Cyber Quest 2026 (TCQ 3.0), a national-level cybersecurity and defence technology competition aimed at strengthening India's cyber resilience. Students, cybersecurity professionals, ethical hackers, researchers, innovators and technology enthusiasts can register online until August 20, 2026 through the official competition portal. The initiative seeks innovative solutions in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and digital defence while providing participants with an opportunity to engage with India's defence ecosystem.

The competition features three specialised tracks—Bug Hunting, AI Kavach and the National Creators Challenge. Participants will first compete in an online qualifying round, after which shortlisted teams will advance to a 36-hour in-person Grand Finale in New Delhi, where they will solve defence-specific cyber challenges in a simulated national infrastructure environment.

Indian Army Terrier Cyber Quest 2026 Highlights

Competition Tracks

Participants can register under one of the following tracks:

1. Bug Hunting

This track focuses on identifying and reporting security vulnerabilities in simulated systems. Participants will demonstrate offensive and defensive cybersecurity skills by discovering vulnerabilities and documenting exploits.

2. AI Kavach

The AI Kavach track encourages participants to develop artificial intelligence-driven cybersecurity solutions that can strengthen digital defence capabilities and address emerging cyber threats.

3. National Creators Challenge

Designed for content creators, students and digital communicators, this category focuses on innovative awareness campaigns related to cybersecurity, cyber hygiene and national digital resilience.

Competition Format

The competition will be conducted in multiple stages:

Stage 1: Online Qualifier

• Online Capture-the-Flag (CTF) challenge.

• Initial shortlisting based on performance.

• Evaluation of technical skills and problem-solving ability.

Stage 2: Grand Finale

Shortlisted teams will participate in a 36-hour live competition in New Delhi.

During the finale, participants will:

• Identify vulnerabilities.

• Document exploits.

• Develop defence-oriented solutions.

• Work in a simulated national infrastructure environment.

• Present their findings before an expert evaluation panel.

Eligibility

The competition is open to:

• Students.

• Cybersecurity professionals.

• Ethical hackers.

• Researchers.

• Artificial intelligence professionals.

• Armed Forces personnel (for applicable tracks).

• Innovators and technology enthusiasts.

Participants must satisfy the eligibility requirements applicable to their chosen competition track.

Team Size

Depending on the selected track:

• Bug Hunting: Maximum 3 members.

• AI Kavach: Maximum 3 members.

• Creators Challenge: Maximum 4 members.

Important Dates

Selection Process

The competition follows a multi-stage selection process:

• Online registration.

• Preliminary screening.

• Online CTF qualifier.

• Shortlisting of top-performing teams.

• Grand Finale in New Delhi.

• Final evaluation by an expert jury.

The top shortlisted teams will compete in the national finale.

Evaluation Criteria

Submissions during the Grand Finale will be assessed on:

• Severity of identified vulnerabilities.

• Originality of the solution.

• Technical methodology.

• Complexity of the approach.

• Documentation quality.

• Overall performance during the competition.

Rewards and Benefits

Selected participants may receive:

• Attractive cash prizes.

• Medallions and certificates.

• National-level recognition.

• Interaction with senior Indian Army and government officials.

• Exposure to India's defence innovation ecosystem.

• Opportunity to visit premier defence establishments.

How to Register

Interested candidates can register by following these steps:

1. Visit the official Terrier Cyber Quest portal.

2. Choose the preferred competition track.

3. Complete the online registration form.

4. Add team details (where applicable).

5. Submit the application before August 20, 2026.

6. Wait for further instructions regarding the online qualifier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last date to register for Indian Army Terrier Cyber Quest 2026?

The last date for online registration is August 20, 2026.

Who can participate?

Students, cybersecurity professionals, ethical hackers, AI professionals, researchers, innovators and eligible Armed Forces personnel can participate, subject to the rules of their selected track.

How is the competition conducted?

Participants first compete in an online Capture-the-Flag (CTF) qualifier, followed by a 36-hour in-person Grand Finale in New Delhi for shortlisted teams.

What are the competition tracks?

The competition includes Bug Hunting, AI Kavach and the National Creators Challenge.

Where will the Grand Finale be held?

The Grand Finale is scheduled to take place in New Delhi from October 6 to October 8, 2026.

Final Update

The Indian Army Terrier Cyber Quest 2026 provides a unique platform for India's cybersecurity and technology community to contribute innovative solutions to national defence challenges. With registrations open until August 20, 2026, interested students, professionals and researchers should complete their applications promptly and prepare for the online qualifier. Those advancing to the final stage will have the opportunity to compete in a 36-hour national cyber challenge, interact with defence experts and showcase their skills before senior military and government officials.