BIO Packathon Guidelines

1. ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS

Any individual or entity is eligible to participate in the hackathon either individually or in a team to showcase solutions aligned with the objectives of the hackathon, including the following:

1. Faculties, students and research scholars of academic institutions
2. Start-ups
3. Research institutions and laboratories
4. Industry
5. NGOs, societies and trusts

Note: Teams are encouraged to be multidisciplinary, combining expertise in materials science, packaging engineering, environmental science, and product design.

2. REGISTRATION AND APPLICATION SUBMISSION

Applicants can register through the registration portal and submit the solution as per Solution Submission Template.

3. EVALUATION OF THE APPLICATIONS

3.1 Evaluation Criteria

Solutions will be assessed based on:

• Compliance with plastic-free requirement
• Biodegradability performance
• Packaging functionality and product safety
• Innovation and originality
• Scalability, affordability, and industry adoption potential
• Evidences submitted

3.2 Shortlisting of the Applications

Based on the evaluation and recommendation by Screening Panels, participants will be shortlisted to make a presentation for final round assessment, either via video conferencing or in person (with prior intimation only), to the Assessment Board. The winning solutions of the hackathon will be recognized and awarded attractive prizes.

4. REWARDS

Certificate of participation shall be awarded to all participants shortlisted for making a presentation before the Assessment Board. Three participants selected by the Assessment Board after final round assessment shall be rewarded as follows:

Prize	Amount
1st Prize	Rs 10,00,000/-
2nd Prize	Rs 7,00,000/-
3rd Prize	Rs 5,00,000/-

Selected winning solutions may be considered for further support, including technical guidance, incubation assistance, and opportunities for pilot trials in collaboration with industry.