Surathkal: The National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal, successfully hosted the 7th edition of the Smart India Hackathon (SIH) 2024 – Software Edition Grand Finale on December 11-12. As one of 51 nodal centres, NITK was part of this global open innovation event that engaged students to solve real-world challenges.
Central and Local Inauguration
The event was inaugurated with a central ceremony by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who lauded the youth’s pivotal role in achieving a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). A local inauguration followed, graced by Shri Krishna Raja, CEO of Vidita Solutions. During the ceremonies, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, interacted with participants, describing SIH as a way for youth to “extract the Amrit of solutions” for national progress.
Focus Areas and Participation
NITK Surathkal addressed six problem statements from the Ministry of Coal and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The competition saw 33 teams with 230 participants, including over 80 women. Out of 250+ national problem statements, topics like AI for anti-doping efforts and quantifying carbon footprints for coal mines were addressed.
Winners and Awards
The event concluded with six teams receiving ₹1 lakh each for their innovative solutions, totaling ₹6 lakh in prizes. Below are the winning solutions:
Ministry of Coal:
- Carbon Footprint Quantification for Mines:
Joint winners: JAIN College of Engineering, Hubballi & JMIT, Radaur - Safety and Productivity Management:
Joint winners: Sardar Patel Institute, Mumbai & CV Raman University, Bhubaneswar - S&T Project Monitoring App:
No winners specified.
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports:
- Tech for Anti-Doping Education:
Winner: Sai Ram Institute of Technology, Chennai - AI in Anti-Doping Investigations:
Winner: A.P. Shah Institute, Thane - Gamified Anti-Doping Awareness:
Joint winners: GD Goenka University, Haryana & JSPM’s Rajarshi Shahu College, Pune
Valedictory Ceremony
The finale included a valedictory ceremony, featuring Prof. B. Venkatesa Perumal and Prof. G. R. M. Reddy as NITK SPOCs, representatives from AICTE, and key officials. Prizes were distributed, recognizing the innovative solutions developed during the 36-hour Hackathon.
Conclusion
NITK Surathkal’s successful hosting of SIH 2024 highlights its commitment to fostering innovation among young minds, contributing to India’s mission of technological and sustainable advancement.