Hackathon (Hardware and Software) - Nirmith'26

Nirmith 2026 Hackathon, hosted by the IoTronics Club at Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT) Bangalore, is a national-level, execution-focused competition designed for undergraduate students across India. This event challenges participants to build and demonstrate real-world hardware and software solutions within a limited timeframe, emphasizing practical implementation and prototype development under the Nirmith'26 banner.

Who Should Apply This hackathon is open to all undergraduate students (1st to 4th year) across India, from any branch or discipline. Inter-college and inter-specialization teams are encouraged. Teams must consist of 3 to 4 members, fostering collaborative innovation.

Tracks & Themes The hackathon features two dedicated tracks, allowing participants to focus on their area of expertise:

• Hardware Track Themes: Healthcare & Assistive Technology, Environment & Sustainability, Smart Mobility & Transportation, IoT for Smart Cities, and Open Hardware Innovation.
• Software Track Themes: AI/ML Application, Sustainability & Resource Optimization, Healthcare & Wellness, Fintech and Web3, and Open Innovation Software.

Format & Timeline The competition begins with a free online screening round where teams submit a presentation explaining their proposed project, problem statement, and implementation approach. Evaluation is based on clarity, feasibility, and innovation. Shortlisted teams will then advance to the 14-hour on-campus finale at NMIT Bangalore. During the finale, teams will develop working prototypes and prepare a final presentation for a panel of judges. Organizers will provide essential amenities including meals, refreshments, high-speed internet, and workspace.

Prizes A total cash prize pool of ₹1,00,000 is distributed across both tracks, recognizing outstanding innovation and execution:

• Hardware Track: Winner: ₹25,000; Runner Up: ₹15,000; Second Runner Up: ₹10,000.
• Software Track: Winner: ₹25,000; Runner Up: ₹15,000; Second Runner Up: ₹10,000.

Eligibility Open to undergraduate students (1st to 4th year) across India. Teams must have 3–4 members and register for only one track (Hardware or Software). All development must occur during the hackathon, and pre-built projects are not allowed.

How to Apply Round 1 (Online Screening) is entirely free, requiring no registration fee for initial proposal submission. Only teams shortlisted for the on-campus finale will be required to pay a Hospitality & Facilities Fee of ₹400 per team, which covers amenities during the offline event. The registration deadline for Round 1 is April 23, 2026.