Solan: To celebrate its 110th anniversary, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) organized a 110-hour hackathon on biodiversity and climate change. Hosted by its High Altitude Regional Centre in Solan, the event focused on the theme “Trans-Himalayan Biodiversity.”
The hackathon officially began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. The Chief Guest was Dr. J. M. Julka, Professor and Director (Planning) at Shoolini University. He was joined by Guest of Honor Dr. H. S. Banyal, Associate Professor and Head at H.P. University, Shimla. Dr. Avtar Kaur Sidhu, Officer-in-Charge at ZSI Solan, also took part, along with other notable scientists and guests from various institutions.
Dr. Sidhu opened the event by warmly welcoming participants, dignitaries, and the jury. Her remarks set the tone for the collaborative and forward-thinking spirit of the gathering. A total of 14 teams joined the hackathon. Each team had up to three members from different regions, including Ladakh, Kargil, Rajouri, Delhi, Kolkata, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. The participants included faculty members, experienced researchers, and motivated students from various academic fields.
In addition to the competing teams, the event saw the attendance of over 150 people. These included professors, research scholars, and students from Himachal Pradesh University, Shoolini University, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, and Eternal University. Technical sessions allowed each team to share their ideas and findings. They had 30 minutes each to present their work, using visuals and audio aids. This ensured every team had an equal opportunity to showcase their efforts.
The topics covered were wide-ranging but focused sharply on biodiversity conservation and climate challenges in the Trans-Himalayan region. These presentations reflected innovative thinking and critical research aimed at solving real-world environmental issues. The event highlighted the need for science-driven action in fragile ecosystems and promoted collaboration among institutions working for a sustainable future.
