G. Kishan Reddy Launches Critical Minerals Hackathon 2026 to Boost Mineral Technology Solutions

New Delhi, Aug 26 (KNN) Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy has launched the Critical Minerals Innovation Hackathon 2026 (CMiH 2026) to encourage students, researchers, start-ups and innovators to develop technology-based solutions for India's critical minerals sector.

The hackathon, aimed at supporting the objectives of the National Critical Mineral Mission, will focus on two challenges: developing mineral prospectivity maps using open data and creating a smart R&D and patent tracking system for critical minerals.

The event will be organised by JNARDDC, Nagpur, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Mines. Participants can submit their ideas until September 20, 2026.

Two winning teams will be selected for each problem statement, with first and second prizes of Rs1.50 lakh and Rs1 lakh, respectively. The winners will be announced during India Mining Week 2026, scheduled from November 15 to 17.

The initiative aims to promote innovation in critical mineral exploration, research and technology intelligence while strengthening India's mineral security and technological self-reliance.

(KNN Bureau)