24-hour national hackathon ‘SNOWHACKIPEC 2026’ inaugurated at Indraprastha Engineering College

Ghaziabad: Indraprastha Engineering College (IPEC) on Saturday inaugurated the 24-hour national-level hackathon SNOWHACKIPEC 2026, aimed at promoting technological innovation, creativity and problem-solving among engineering students. The scale of participation underlined the event’s national reach, with over 2,000 students registering from across the country. After a rigorous screening process, 85 teams comprising nearly 300 participants were shortlisted for the final round.

The hackathon has attracted students not only from local engineering institutions but also from IITs and other premier technical institutes, significantly raising the competitive benchmark. To encourage innovation and healthy competition, a cash prize of ₹50,000 has been announced for the top three teams. The college has ensured free registration, along with round-the-clock food and accommodation facilities for all participants during the 24-hour event.

Innovative projects developed during the hackathon are being evaluated by a distinguished jury comprising chief executive officers and senior human resource professionals from leading multinational companies. Projects are being assessed on parameters including practical feasibility, originality, technical excellence and potential impact on industry and society.

Addressing the gathering, Punit Agrawal, Vice Chairman, IPEC, said innovation and technological competence are indispensable in today’s competitive landscape. He emphasised that active participation and experiential learning are more valuable than merely winning or losing. Prof. (Dr) Anil Kumar Solanki, Director, IPEC, lauded the efforts of mentors and participants, noting that hackathons help students develop essential skills such as teamwork, time management and problem-solving.

Event coordinators Prof. S.P. Singh and Dr Arvind Tiwari said SNOWHACKIPEC 2026 aims to foster innovation while exposing students to real-world industry challenges. The inaugural ceremony was attended by deans, heads of departments and faculty members.