The School of Computer Science and Engineering (SoCSE), Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), successfully organized the Raksha AI Hackathon, a technology-driven event focused on developing innovative solutions in the domain of national defence and security. The hackathon comprised three rounds, culminating in today’s grand finale where 10 shortlisted teams from various departments, presented their final working models and projects. The students showcased innovative solutions addressing key national defence focus areas including OSINT-based incident analysis and reporting, device-level geospatial analytics using commercial location data, IFF for aerial feeds using computer vision, offline TRN visualization based on AR/VR, and automation of technical evaluation and analysis platforms.
The event was organized under the inspiration and visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Pragati Kumar, whose continuous encouragement and support motivated the department to conduct such a high-impact academic initiative. The hackathon was inaugurated by Prof. Balbir Singh, Dean Academic Affairs; Prof. K. R. Jha, Dean Engineering; and Dr. Sunanda, Head, SoCSE, who appreciated the efforts of students and organizers in promoting innovation aligned with national priorities. Dr. Sunanda’s constant support, guidance, and proactive involvement played a significant role in ensuring smooth arrangements and the successful execution of the event.
The event briefing was delivered by the Convener, Dr. Naveen Kumar Gondhi, who outlined the objectives, structure, and evaluation process of the hackathon. Prof. Ajay Kaul and Dr. Sakshi served as Co-Conveners and were present throughout the event, contributing to its smooth execution. Mr. Abhigya Mahajan, Assistant Professor, SoCSE, served as the Organizing Secretary and ensured effective coordination of all academic and logistical arrangements.
The teams were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges comprising Dr. Bharat Bhushan Jindal, Associate Professor, SOCE; Dr. Shashi Bhushan Kotwal, Associate Professor, SOECE; Dr. Sanjay Sharma, Associate Professor, SOME; and Dr. Ankush Raina, Assistant Professor, SOME. After a rigorous evaluation process, the winners of the hackathon were Sourabh, Ravish, Vivek, Deepak, Shivali, Anushika, and Himanshu, whose projects demonstrated exceptional innovation and technical excellence.
The successful execution of the event was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the volunteers including Tavneet, Simran, Gautam, Shubham, Mukti, Maneesh, Naresh, Snavi, Dakshita, Swati, Priyal, Yash, Kartikey, and Sachin, who actively contributed to planning, coordination, and on-ground management.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation not only from SoCSE faculty, staff, and students but also from faculty members and students of various other departments who attended in large numbers to encourage the participants. The Raksha AI Hackathon reaffirmed SMVDU’s commitment to fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technology-driven solutions for national development and security.
