PM Encourages Smart India Hackathon Finalists at IIT Kharagpur
Kolkata, December 9, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered an inspiring message to the finalists of the Smart India Hackathon (SIH) 2025 Hardware, urging them to contribute to the nation’s progress through innovative and technology-driven solutions. The event, which is being held at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, serves as a platform for young innovators to showcase their talents and ideas.
Prime Minister’s Message
In a video message streamed to participants on a large screen, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of bold thinking and purposeful work. He stated, “You think boldly, work with a purpose and contribute to India’s progress through technology-driven solutions.” This encouragement is aimed at motivating the youth to leverage their skills and creativity for the betterment of society.
Union Minister’s Interaction
Following the Prime Minister’s address, Union Minister of State for Education, Sukanta Majumdar, engaged in a live interaction with the SIH finalists. During this session, he highlighted the significance of fostering a spirit of innovation, particularly as IIT Kharagpur celebrates its 75th anniversary of excellence in education, nation-building, and technological advancement.
Majumdar encouraged the students to think ambitiously and refine their prototypes, reinforcing the culture of innovation that the SIH promotes on a national scale. He acknowledged the critical role of young innovators in shaping India’s technological future and praised the dedication of the teams working diligently at IIT Kharagpur.
Opportunities for Finalists
The Smart India Hackathon provides a unique opportunity for finalists to present their projects directly to stakeholders. Participants shared insights into the real-world problems they are addressing for various ministries and departments. The discussions included the long journeys they undertook, team experiences, and the inspirations that motivated them to tackle their chosen problem statements.
Key Highlights from the Event
- Encouragement from Leaders: The presence of high-profile leaders like Prime Minister Modi and Minister Sukanta Majumdar underlines the importance of the hackathon in fostering innovation.
- Celebration of 75 Years: IIT Kharagpur’s 75th anniversary adds significance to this year’s event, marking a legacy of excellence in education and technology.
- Real-World Impact: Finalists are not just competing; they are addressing pressing issues faced by society, showcasing the practical applications of their projects.
Significance of the Smart India Hackathon
The Smart India Hackathon is an initiative launched by the Government of India to encourage students to develop innovative solutions to various problems faced by the country. It aims to harness the creativity and technical skills of young minds, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and contribute to national development.
Over the years, the hackathon has grown in scale and scope, attracting thousands of participants from across the nation. It serves as a bridge between academia and industry, fostering collaboration and encouraging students to think critically and creatively.
Future of Innovation in India
The encouragement from the Prime Minister and the Minister reflects a broader commitment to nurturing a culture of innovation in India. As the country moves towards becoming a global leader in technology and innovation, initiatives like the Smart India Hackathon play a crucial role in shaping the future.
Young innovators are seen as key players in this transformation, and their contributions can significantly impact various sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, and more. By empowering students to think outside the box and develop practical solutions, India can harness its demographic dividend effectively.
Conclusion
The Smart India Hackathon 2025 at IIT Kharagpur stands as a testament to the potential of young innovators in driving change and progress. With the support of leaders like Prime Minister Modi and Minister Sukanta Majumdar, the future looks promising for the participants and for India as a whole. As these young minds continue to innovate and create, they are not just shaping their own futures but also contributing to the advancement of the nation.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates and events surrounding the Smart India Hackathon 2025 as of December 9, 2025.
