Kalol, Gandhinagar – December 2025:The Smart India Hackathon (SIH) 2025 Grand Finale was conducted with great enthusiasm and national fervour at Swaminarayan University, Kalol on 8–9 December 2025. The inaugural ceremony, held at Medical Hall on the morning of 8 December at 8:00 am, marked a vibrant beginning to the prestigious 36-hour non-stop coding marathon.
The ceremony was inaugurated with the traditional lamp-lighting by Param Pujya Swami Dr. Premswaroopdasji, President of Swaminarayan University; Swami Bhaktavatsal Swamiji, Vice President; Swami Bhaktinandandasji; the university’s revered saints; Dr. Rupesh Vasani, Vice-Chancellor; Registrar; Deans; senior faculty; and eminent industry experts. The event also witnessed the presence of nodal officers Mr. Shyam Sundar Sanathan, Mr. Manish Patil, and Ms. Preeti Vyas.
Selected student teams from across the country, along with their mentors and judges, participated in large numbers. In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the national relevance of SIH, the importance of innovation-driven education and the need to foster a strong problem-solving culture in higher education institutions.
Guest speakers inspired participants to pursue innovation, technological excellence, and startup-oriented thinking, emphasizing their role in nation-building. The university’s meticulous planning, world-class facilities and seamless coordination were highly appreciated by dignitaries and participants alike.
Following the inaugural session, all teams proceeded to domain orientation and problem definition briefings, officially beginning the 36-hour hackathon.
A total of 20 teams from multiple states participated, including 38 female and 82 male students. Over 36 hours, participants showcased exceptional creativity, coding expertise and solution-oriented thinking while working on problem statements provided by government departments and industry bodies.
Industry mentors and technical experts continuously guided teams, and on the final day, the best-performing teams were honoured after an extensive evaluation process.
“Zero-Waste Hackathon” – A Step Towards Sustainable Innovation
In line with its commitment to environmental responsibility, Swaminarayan University also hosted a “Zero-Waste Hackathon” to promote green innovation and sustainable living. Students from various departments presented interdisciplinary projects on eco-friendly product design, smart dustbins, recycling-upcycling mechanisms, waste segregation systems, green event management, and campus-level sustainability models.
Participants received guidance from environmental specialists, industry mentors and faculty members, enabling them to develop holistic, socially responsible and technology-driven solutions. The initiative strongly reinforced values of environmental consciousness, social responsibility, innovation, research orientation and holistic development among students.
Outstanding projects were felicitated, and the university pledged full support to help convert promising ideas into startups or campus-impact models.
A Landmark Achievement for Swaminarayan University
The Smart India Hackathon Finale at Swaminarayan University proved to be a significant milestone for the institution. With an exemplary display of academic strength, technical infrastructure and organisational excellence, the university successfully hosted one of India’s largest national innovation events.
Throughout the 36-hour event, teams worked intensely in an “innovation-first atmosphere”, supported by high-speed connectivity, advanced laboratory facilities, secure workspaces, continuous technical support, and round-the-clock hospitality.
On the final day, teams demonstrated their prototypes, product demos and presentations before expert juries. Judges praised the students’ creativity, technical depth and impactful problem-solving approaches. Winning teams received certificates, recognition and national-level appreciation.
Strengthening India’s Innovation Ecosystem
The hackathon not only enriched students’ technological capabilities but also strengthened essential skills such as teamwork, analytical thinking, product development and real-world implementation. These experiences prepare them for future careers in startups, research, and emerging technology sectors.
With this successful national event, Swaminarayan University has added yet another golden chapter to its academic legacy, establishing itself as a strong contributor to India’s innovation and education ecosystem.
