SHILLONG:
The International Water Conclave 2024 began today in Shillong, marking the commencement of a two-day event that will run until February 10. As part of the conclave, a hackathon was organised to brainstorm innovative solutions for addressing water-related challenges, particularly in hilly regions.
Dignitaries including Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, cabinet ministers Ampareen Lyngdoh, AL Hek, Comingone Ymbon, and other esteemed guests graced the event. They awarded the winners of the hackathon during the ceremony held today.
The hackathon, held on the sidelines of the International Water Conclave 2024 conference, aimed to explore ideas with the potential to offer techno-social and managerial/start-up solutions. Key areas of focus included water management, conservation, rejuvenation, recycling, pollution/contamination, and community engagement.
In the individual category, Team Spirit clinched the 1st place, followed by Snehalt24 in 2nd place and Dani.ce21 in 3rd place. In the institutional category, Jerrasawamynathan secured the 1st place, followed by Meghalaya Institute of Governance in 2nd place and GreenUmtung in 3rd place.
Prizes were distributed as follows: Individual entries received Rs 1,00,000 for the 1st prize, Rs 75,000 for the 2nd prize, and Rs 50,000 for the 3rd prize. Institutional entries were awarded Rs 2,00,000 for the 1st prize, Rs 1,50,000 for the 2nd prize, and Rs 1,00,000 for the 3rd prize.
Moreover, the top 10 entries across both categories will have the opportunity to pitch their innovations to a panel of experts. They will also receive a Joint Certificate of Appreciation from the Indian Institute of Management Shillong and the International Water Conference, Shillong.