BugBash

BugBash 2026 is a high-intensity 24-hour national hackathon organised by Newton School of Technology in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This innovation sprint focuses on problem-solving, debugging, and building impactful tech solutions, with a strong emphasis on AI and practical implementation. It challenges participants not just to build, but to break, fix, and improve systems under pressure.

Who Should Apply Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, both solo participants and teams of up to 4 members. Cross-college teams are allowed, encouraging diverse collaboration.

Tracks / Themes Participants can choose from two distinct tracks:

• Track 1 — Build an AI Agent: Design and develop an autonomous AI system capable of identifying, analyzing, and solving real-world workflow problems independently.
• Track 2 — Build Something Using AI: Create a functional product where AI plays a central role in solving a defined problem or improving an existing system. Official problem statements will be revealed at the start of the hackathon.

Format & Timeline The hackathon runs continuously for 24 hours, commencing at 12:00 PM on April 25th, 2026, and concluding at 1:00 PM on April 26th, 2026. The event includes an opening ceremony and problem statement reveal, three mini-challenges (debugging / rapid build rounds) during the event, a final submission window before Hour 23, and final judging and a closing ceremony at Hour 24.

Prizes A total cash prize pool of ₹65,000 is available, distributed among the top winners. The 1st Prize winner receives ₹40,000, winner certificates, and exclusive goodies. The 2nd Prize winner receives ₹25,000, certificates, and goodies. Runner-ups will receive goodies and certificates. All finalists will receive certificates and may be considered for networking or internship opportunities (subject to availability). Additional awards include Best Debugging Solution, Best Innovation, Best Social Impact, and Mini-Challenge Champion.

Eligibility Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students. Teams can consist of 1 to 4 members (solo participants are allowed). Each participant can be part of only one team. A valid college ID or government ID is mandatory for registration.

How to Apply Registration requires a valid college or government ID and confirmation. Participants are strongly advised to review the official rulebook before the event. The registration deadline is April 24, 2026.