IIT Delhi eDC Partners CyberPeace for eRaksha Hackathon 2026
In an exciting development for the Indian technology landscape, the Entrepreneurship Development Cell (eDC) of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has partnered with CyberPeace, a prominent domestic cybersecurity think tank, to launch the eRaksha Hackathon 2026. This national-level hackathon is set to focus on crucial areas such as cybersecurity, defence AI, and digital safety.
Event Overview
The eRaksha Hackathon 2026 is scheduled to take place from January 16 to January 18, 2026, at IIT Delhi. This event is part of the larger BECon’26, IIT Delhi’s annual entrepreneurship conclave, and serves as a pre-summit event for the AI Impact Summit’26. The hackathon aims to bring together student innovators from across India to create deployable, real-world solutions to pressing digital safety challenges.
Objectives of the Hackathon
The primary objectives of the eRaksha Hackathon 2026 include:
- Fostering innovation and problem-solving in cybersecurity.
- Providing industry-aligned exposure through expert mentorship.
- Encouraging collaborative development of solutions across key domains.
Focus Areas
Participants will work on various critical domains, including:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Threat Detection
- Blockchain Technology
- Secure Software Development
The problem statements for the hackathon will cover advanced topics such as:
- Agentic AI systems
- Deepfake detection
- Internet of Things (IoT) security
- Edge-based security architectures
Participants will be guided by experts from both industry and academia, emphasizing the development of scalable, practical solutions with real-world applications.
Key Problem Statements
The hackathon will center around two critical problem statements:
- Agentic AI for Securing Home IoT Devices through Deception and Autonomous Defence: This challenge will require participants to design intelligent systems capable of detecting, responding to, and mitigating cyber threats within home IoT environments.
- Agentic AI for Deepfake Detection and Authenticity Verification: Teams will be tasked with developing innovative AI-driven solutions to identify manipulated media and ensure the authenticity of digital content.
Event Conclusion and Recognition
The eRaksha Hackathon 2026 will conclude on February 10, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. During this finale, select solutions and key insights will be showcased at the India AI Impact Summit 2026. Participants will have the opportunity to gain national visibility, compete for a cash prize worth Rs 3 lakh, and interact with senior dignitaries from industry, government, and the global expert community.
Statements from Organizers
Professor Lakshmi Narayan Ramasubramanian, In-charge of the Entrepreneurship Development Cell at IIT Delhi, expressed pride in the collaboration with CyberPeace. He stated, “We aim to develop practical, scalable solutions that address defence-related problems and enhance national security. This E-Raksha Hackathon serves as a catalyst for innovation-led cybersecurity solutions, strengthening India’s digital safety ecosystem while inspiring the next generation of leaders to build secure, responsible, and trustworthy digital technologies.”
Maj. Vineet Kumar, Founder of CyberPeace, emphasized the urgency of responsible AI governance, stating, “We are proud to see the commencement of a Hackathon that fosters real-time innovation and awareness on responsible AI, digital trust, and cybersecurity. By engaging diverse stakeholders, including children, educators, senior citizens, and technology leaders, we aim to promote a safe, responsible, and democratic use of AI.”
About the Organizers
The Entrepreneurship Development Cell (eDC) at IIT Delhi is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, problem-solving, and technology-led nation-building. The eDC aims to provide a collaborative ecosystem where ideas can evolve into deployable solutions, nurturing future-ready innovators who can contribute meaningfully to India’s digital economy.
CyberPeace is a think tank focused on addressing the challenges of cybersecurity and promoting digital safety. Through initiatives like the eRaksha Hackathon, CyberPeace seeks to engage various stakeholders to strengthen the digital ecosystem in India.
Conclusion
The eRaksha Hackathon 2026 represents a significant step towards enhancing India’s cybersecurity landscape. By bringing together bright minds and fostering innovation, this event aims to develop solutions that address critical digital safety challenges. It also serves as a platform for young innovators to showcase their talents and contribute to the nation’s digital future.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the latest updates available as of December 30, 2025.
