PM Modi praises youth talent and innovation at Smart India Hackathon

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with young innovators at the Smart India Hackathon 2024. He stated that the future would be shaped by knowledge and innovation, and the youth represent India's hope and potential in transforming changing circumstances.

In Short

• PM Modi praises Smart India Hackathon innovations' impact
• The 7th edition empowers students for real-world solutions
• PM Modi emphasises hackathons' national significance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the significant impact of innovations developed through various editions of the Smart India Hackathon, describing them as highly beneficial for people across the country.

Speaking via video conference to participants of the Smart India Hackathon 2024 on Wednesday, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of these technological solutions in tackling real-world challenges.

The 7th edition of the Smart India Hackathon continues to empower students to tackle real-world challenges through innovative solutions. As a flagship initiative of the Union Ministry of Education, the Smart India Hackathon has established itself as a dynamic platform where young innovators collaborate with government and industry partners to address critical issues with creative and impactful solutions.

This year, a record 250+ problem statements were submitted by 54 ministries, state governments, PSUs, and industries. The institute-level participation witnessed a 150% increase, with over 86,000 teams competing. Approximately 49,000 teams progressed to the national round, making this edition the largest hackathon yet.

During the hour-long interaction, PM Modi engaged with participants, inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers to continue addressing critical issues through innovation.

PM Modi reflected on his involvement in previous hackathons, noting that he has always been impressed with the outcomes. "You have only emboldened my belief," he remarked, highlighting how solutions from past editions are actively utilised across various Ministries. Expressing a keen interest in learning more about the participants, he commenced the interaction with enthusiasm.

Further, Modi underscored the significance of hackathons conducted over the past seven years, noting that the solutions developed through these events are making a meaningful impact on the nation. He pointed out that these initiatives have successfully tackled numerous critical challenges.

He also spoke about the recently approved One Nation One Subscription scheme, describing it as a groundbreaking initiative to empower young innovators. This scheme will provide access to subscriptions of reputed journals, ensuring that no young Indian is deprived of vital knowledge and information.

Further, PM Narendra Modi referred to the 2020 National Education Policy (NEP), noting its potential to cultivate a scientific mindset among students. He stressed the need for out-of-the-box thinking to meet India's evolving aspirations and urged innovation to become a habit across all sectors.

Speaking about the ongoing hackathon, he underlined the importance of both the process and the product, asserting that an innovative approach is crucial for overcoming challenges and driving progress.