5G Innovation Hackathon 2025

Why in News?

On March 17, the Union Department of Telecommunications (DoT) announced the 5G Innovation Hackathon 2025.

Key Points:

• Objective: To accelerate the development of innovative 5G-powered solutions to address societal and industrial challenges.
• Participants: Organised for students, startups and professionals.
• Facilities: Mentorship, funding and access to over 100 5G use case labs.
• Key focus areas:
  • AI-powered network maintenance
  • IoT-enabled solutions
  • 5G broadcasting
  • Smart health
  • Agriculture
  • Industrial automation
  • Non-terrestrial networks
  • D2M (Direct-to-Mobile)
  • V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything)
  • Quantum communications
• Participants will have to submit their proposals, which will be evaluated in various stages.
• The best ideas will be provided financial support, access to 5G labs, and mentorship.
• Winners will receive cash prizes.

Prizes and Recognition:

• 1st Place: INR 5,00,000
• 2nd Place: INR 3,00,000
• 3rd Place: INR 1,50,000
• Additionally:
  • In addition, a special prize of INR 50,000 will be awarded for the best idea and most innovative prototype.
  • 10 labs will receive certificates for “Best 5G Use Case”.
  • One emerging institute will receive special recognition for “Best Idea Submission”.

Key Dates:

• Proposal Submission Deadline: 15 March – 15 April 2025
• Announcement of Winners: 1 October 2025