Hackathon to Encourage Innovation in Coal Sector

August 15, 2023

The Ministry of Coal organized a Hackathon through CMPDI to boost innovation in the coal and lignite sector, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative. The event aimed to engage startups, research organizations, and academic institutions to address five key problem statements: payload monitoring of loading equipment, dust suppression optimization, 5G application for coal industry, crack propagation detection, and efficient coal grade monitoring.
The event gained significant traction with 34 proposals received on the problem statements. The selection process involves online presentations judged by subject experts from various prestigious institutions. Top three proposals per problem statement will be honored at an event in CMPDI, Ranchi. This initiative underscores the Ministry’s dedication to fostering startup culture and technological innovation, highlighting the sector’s potential for growth through collaboration and advancement.

Why did the Ministry of Coal organize the Hackathon, and what was its purpose?

The Ministry of Coal initiated the Hackathon to encourage innovation in the coal and lignite sector as part of the “Make in India” campaign. It aimed to engage startups, research organizations, and academic institutions to develop solutions for pressing challenges faced by the industry.

What were the specific problem statements presented to participants?

Participants were tasked with addressing five key challenges: payload monitoring of loading equipment, optimization of dust suppression in opencast mines, 5G application and use cases for coal industry, technology to detect the effect of blasting on crack propagation, and an efficient coal grade monitoring system.

How did the Ministry ensure wide participation in the Hackathon?

The Ministry facilitated broad participation by setting up a microsite for the event on various official websites and organizing awareness programs at prominent academic and research institutions. This strategy yielded an overwhelming response from scientists, researchers, faculty, and students.

What is the evaluation process for the proposals?

Submitted proposals will undergo evaluation by distinguished judges, including experts from institutions like IIT Kharagpur, IIT-ISM Dhanbad, IIT-BHU Varanasi, IIIT Ranchi, SCCL Kothagudem, CMPDI, CCL, NCL, and CIL. Online presentations will be held, and the top three proposals for each problem statement will be selected.

What is the significance of selecting top proposals for each problem statement?

The selection process aims to identify the most innovative and viable solutions to the challenges faced by the coal sector. Recognizing these proposals encourages further development and implementation of practical solutions that can enhance industry operations.

How does this initiative align with the “Make in India” campaign?

By promoting innovation and solutions developed within India, this Hackathon aligns perfectly with the “Make in India” initiative’s goals of fostering domestic manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and technological advancements across sectors.

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