The Critical Minerals Innovation Hackathon 2026 (CMiH 2026) is a national-level hackathon organised by the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, in collaboration with the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium
Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC). The competition invites innovators, researchers, students, and startups to develop solutions addressing challenges in the critical minerals sector — a strategic area for India's energy transition, defence, and high-tech manufacturing. Who Should Apply The hackathon is open to students, researchers, early-stage startups, and individual innovators across India. Teams can be formed from academic institutions, research labs, or industry. The challenge is designed to attract multidisciplinary participation, including from materials science, mining engineering, chemical engineering, electronics, and environmental science. Format & Timeline The hackathon runs from August 26 to September 20, 2026, with the registration deadline on September 20, 2026. The event is conducted in a virtual format, allowing participants from across the country to submit their innovative solutions. The competition follows a structured evaluation process, with submissions judged on innovation, technical feasibility, scalability, and impact. Prizes The total prize pool is ₹2,50,000, awarded to the winning teams. Additional recognition and opportunities for mentorship or collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and JNARDDC may be provided to top performers. Eligibility Open to Indian nationals and teams based in India. No specific team size or age restrictions have been mentioned, but participants are encouraged to form multidisciplinary teams to address the complex challenges. About the Organiser JNARDDC is a premier research and development centre under the Ministry of Mines, Government of India. It focuses on aluminium research, development, and design, and plays a key role in promoting innovation in the minerals and metals sector. The Ministry of Mines is responsible for the exploration, mining, and processing of minerals in India, and this hackathon is part of its efforts to foster indigenous innovation in critical minerals. How to Apply Interested participants can register through the official competition page on Internshala. The registration deadline is September 20, 2026. Ensure that your team's solution aligns with the hackathon's themes and submit your entry before the deadline.
Eligibility
Open to Indian nationals and teams based in India. No specific team size or age restrictions mentioned.
