Launch of Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025 and Bharat-WIN Portal

Introduction to Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025

In December 2025, Union Minister C.R. Patil, representing the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS), inaugurated the Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025 and the Bharat-water innovation Network (WIN) Portal at Shram Shakti Bhawan in New Delhi. This initiative aims to enhance scientific and technological solutions within India’s water sector.

Significance of the Hackathon

During the launch event, Minister C.R. Patil emphasized the importance of a 'Water Vision @2047'. The goal is to create a secure, inclusive, and technology-driven future for water management across the nation. This movement intends to mobilize collective talent to address pressing water issues.

Key Details of the Hackathon

• What: Launch of Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025 and Bharat-WIN portal
• Launched by: Union Minister C.R. Patil, MoJS
• Location: Shram Shakti Bhawan, New Delhi
• Portal: Bharat-WIN
• Financial Assistance: Rs. 1 lakh grant for Proof-of-Concept (PoC)
• Funding Authority: DoWR, RD&GR (MoJS)
• Project Implementation Agency: NIH, Roorkee

Objectives and Approach

The Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025 aims to encourage participation from various stakeholders, including citizens, researchers, and innovators. It adopts a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society (Jan Bhagidari) approach to ensure a comprehensive response to water challenges.

Focus Areas for Innovation

The hackathon encourages participants to develop innovative solutions in priority areas such as:

• Water resource management
• Wastewater treatment
• Water-use efficiency
• Circular economy
• Climate resilience
• Internet of Things (IoT) and smart water grids
• Precision agriculture

Financial Support for Innovations

The Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation will provide financial assistance in the form of grants for selected innovations. The winners will receive Rs. 1 lakh to develop their Proof-of-Concept (PoC), supporting practical and scalable solutions to grassroots water challenges.

Conclusion

The Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025 and the Bharat-WIN portal represent a significant step towards addressing India's water challenges through innovation and collaboration. By engaging diverse participants, this initiative aims to foster a sustainable water future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025?
Answer: The Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025 is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Jal Shakti to encourage innovative solutions for India's water challenges through a national-level competition.

Q2. Who launched the Bharat-WIN Portal?
Answer: The Bharat-WIN Portal was launched by Union Minister C.R. Patil as part of the Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025 to facilitate water innovation.

Q3. What financial support is provided to hackathon winners?
Answer: Winners of the hackathon will receive a grant of Rs. 1 lakh to develop their Proof-of-Concept (PoC) for innovative water solutions.

Q4. How can participants contribute to the hackathon?
Answer: Participants can contribute by developing solutions in areas such as water resource management, wastewater treatment, and climate resilience, among others.

Q5. What is the significance of 'Water Vision @2047'?
Answer: 'Water Vision @2047' aims to create a sustainable and technology-driven approach to water management in India, promoting innovation and collaboration across sectors.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary goal of the Jal Shakti Hackathon 2025?
A) To enhance agricultural yields
B) To mobilize talent for innovative water solutions
C) To promote tourism in India
D) To reduce water pollution
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Who is the funding authority for the innovations in the Jal Shakti Hackathon?
A) Ministry of Environment
B) DoWR, RD&GR (MoJS)
C) National Institute of Technology
D) Ministry of Home Affairs
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What financial assistance do the hackathon winners receive?
A) Rs. 50,000
B) Rs. 1 lakh
C) Rs. 2 lakh
D) Rs. 5 lakh
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which of the following is a focus area of the hackathon?
A) Renewable energy
B) Water resource management
C) Waste management
D) Urban development
Correct Answer: B