AI innovation takes centre stage at Technovanza hackathon at Mumbai's VJTI

The first prize was awarded to Devansh Raulo from DJ Sanghvi College of Engineering. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The m-Indicator AI Hackathon 2026 was hosted on February 28 and March 1 at Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI) in Mumbai as part of its annual technical festival, Technovanza.

The hackathon witnessed an overwhelming response, receiving over 1000 applications from across the country. After a rigorous screening process, 90 participants comprising both students and working professionals were selected to compete in this intensive innovation challenge.

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Participants engaged in a 24-hour non-stop coding marathon, developing AI-driven solutions addressing real-world problems across diverse sectors.

A wide range of innovative projects were showcased, including:

AI-based transport planning systems

Citizen missile alert system

Cybersecurity solutions

AI tools for generating business leads from Google Business listings

Housing society cost estimators (painting and flooring)

PragnaPath: A cognitive-adaptive EdTech AI system that personalises learning styles

e-waste management platforms

Missing person detection systems

Cybercrime prevention tools

Disaster management training modules for children

AI-based Forest Rights Act management

Job scam detection systems

Construction safety monitoring using AI-powered drones

Automated legal draft preparation

Voice pattern analysis for medical wellness

Product warranty management systems

Audio guides for Divyang (persons with disabilities).

Transport innovation wins top honours; Rs 1 lakh distributed among winners

The first prize was awarded to Devansh Raulo from DJ Sanghvi College of Engineering, Vile Parle, for his innovation in the transport sector.

The event was evaluated by Sachin Teke, founder of m-Indicator; VJTI Professor Mahesh Shirole, and Naval Patel, founder of Mobigic.

A total cash prize of Rs 1 lakh was distributed among the winners. The hackathon highlighted the power of AI-driven innovation and provided a platform for young minds and professionals to develop impactful solutions for societal challenges.