The HACK $DAY PONDY-EDITION 1 is a global deep-tech hackathon happening at SMVEC, Pondicherry, from December 28-30. This 3-day event featured 6 tracks, including AI/ML & Generative AI, Cybersecurity, Game Development, Blockchain/Web3, IoT, and an Open Track. Participants had the opportunity to build, innovate, and compete for exciting prizes totaling up to 1.2 Lakhs INR, with the chance to showcase their skills on a global platform. Teams of 2-5 members registered for the hackathon.

Code, Create, Conquer: Inside the Thrilling Hackathon at SMVEC
A Graceful Commencement

The ceremony began with a serene invocation song performed by the talented students of SMVEC, setting a respectful tone. This was followed by the SMV Trust Song, instilling pride and unity among attendees.

The traditional lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest and dignitaries symbolized the dispelling of darkness and the ushering in of knowledge.
Welcome address

The formal proceedings commenced with a welcome speech by Dr. R. Raju, Professor and Head of the Department of Information Technology. He was extended a warm welcome to all attendees, highlighting the significance of the event and the institution’s ongoing endeavors in the realm of information technology. His address underscored the collaborative spirit and the pursuit of knowledge that define the college’s academic environment.
Falicitation Address:

Shri. D. Rajarajan, Treasurer of the SMVEC Trust, delivered the Felicitation Address, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and executing tasks with precision and uniqueness. He encouraged students to embrace change positively as they advance in their careers.
The Hack Begins: 48 Hours of Code and Creativity







From dusk till dawn, the SMVEC campus buzzed with the energy of caffeine-fueled minds racing against time. Mentors roamed the floor, offering guidance, feedback, and encouragement. Whether it was debugging a stubborn piece of code or refining a user interface, every minute counted.
Students used an array of tools and technologies


from machine learning and cloud platforms to web development frameworks and IoT kits. The variety of approaches to similar problems highlighted the diversity in thinking and the richness of ideas among participants.

First time in Puducherry, The 48-Hour International Hackathon, hosted by the Department of Information Technology, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Engineering College, in association with Ox.Day.
Winners and Takeaways



Three top teams walked away with cash prizes, goodies, and internship offers from sponsor companies. But beyond the tangible rewards, every participant gained something invaluable—experience, exposure, and the confidence to build and innovate
With 500+ participants from across the nation, the hackathon was a powerhouse of innovation, creativity, and collaboration. Teams worked tirelessly to craft cutting-edge solutions to real-world challenges.
Conclusion

The SMVEC Hackathon was not just a competition—it was a celebration of passion, perseverance, and potential. As students gear up for the next edition, one thing is clear: innovation is alive and thriving at SMVEC, and the future of tech has never looked brighter.