Delhi and the Delhi NCR region are fast becoming vibrant hubs for hackathons — offering students opportunities to innovate, learn, network, and launch careers in technology. Whether you’re into cybersecurity, AI, cloud computing, or full-stack hacking, there are several notable events and competitions that student builders should know about in 2026.

Here’s a deep dive into the best hackathons happening in and around Delhi this year — plus tips on how to make the most of them.

🔥 1. eRaksha Hackathon 2026 — National AI & Cybersecurity Challenge

One of the most exciting tech events of the year is the eRaksha Hackathon 2026, hosted at IIT Delhi in partnership with cybersecurity think-tank CyberPeace.

🛡️ What to expect:

• 36-hour competitive sprint focused on real-world cybersecurity challenges

• Problem statements include AI-powered IoT defence, deepfake detection, and digital safety solutions

• Industry mentors help participant teams build practical, deployable tech

• National-level visibility and networking with experts and researchers

This event is ideal for students who want hands-on experience with cybersecurity, ethical hacking, AI defences, and real system threats.

💡 2. HackFest 2.0 — Google Developer Group New Delhi Hackathon

Organized by GDG Cloud New Delhi in collaboration with tech partners, HackFest 2.0 is a fast-paced innovation event centered around cloud and AI technologies.

🔍 Key highlights:

• Two-day hackathon focusing on Agentic AI, Google Cloud, and full-stack builds

• Mentorship from experienced industry engineers

• Opportunity to prototype solutions and get feedback from top judges

• Great for students and early-career builders alike

Whether you’re passionate about cloud development or want to level up your AI skillset, this event offers valuable hands-on experience in a competitive yet supportive environment.

📍 3. HackIndia Collaboration with NIT Delhi

While not a Delhi-exclusive hackathon on its own, the HackIndia partnership with NIT Delhi brings one of India’s largest hackathon pilots to the heart of the capital region.

🔎 What makes this important:

• Access for Delhi student communities to HackIndia’s nationwide innovation platform

• Mentorship and curated problem statements across multiple tech domains

• A chance to network with students and mentors from across India

• Leads toward national finals and deeper industry connections

If you’re looking for ongoing engagement with one of India’s largest hackathon ecosystems, this partnership is worth tracking.

💻 4. University & College-Level Hackathons in Delhi

In addition to the high-profile events above, several university and college hackathons offer regular opportunities to build skills and compete:

• SpaceCon Hackathon (NSIT) — part of integrated tech fest activities for students in Delhi.

• Web3 & AI bootcamps / regional contests — often embedded in fests or event calendars at institutions like Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology and others.

Even when not on major national platforms, these events often include mentorship, cash prizes, and certificates — especially valuable for early-stage student builders.

🧠 Why Participate in Delhi Hackathons?

Participating in hackathons in Delhi offers unique advantages:

🎓 1. Learn from Experts

Events like eRaksha and HackFest bring mentors from both industry and academia — a chance to understand real engineering challenges under time pressure.

🌐 2. Build Real Projects

Most hackathons today emphasize deployable solutions rather than just demo day presentations — which is huge for your portfolio and internship applications.

🤝 3. Network Locally & Nationally

Delhi’s central location and proximity to tech firms, startups, and research institutions means you can network with professionals, venture partners, and recruiters.

🚀 4. Showcase Your Ideas on Big Platforms

Multiple hackathons are connected with major tech events — like the India AI Impact Summit — giving your innovation a global audience.

📌 How to Maximize Your Hackathon Journey

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned hacker, make sure to:

• Start early: Form your team and ideate before the hackathon day.

• Focus on impact: Judges prioritize solutions that solve real problems.

• Seek feedback: Mentors are one of the most valuable parts of hackathons.

• Leverage platforms like Where U Elevate — they help amplify hackathon visibility so you don’t miss deadlines and know where your skills fit best.

Platforms such as Where U Elevate help connect student communities with the right events, ensuring that promising builders in Delhi get access to meaningful tech challenges and opportunities for growth.

📅 Final Thoughts

Delhi’s hackathon scene in 2026 is both dynamic and student-centric. From cutting-edge cybersecurity challenges at IIT Delhi’s eRaksha Hackathon to community-driven developer sprints like HackFest 2.0 and partnerships that bring national hackathon ecosystems closer to local campuses — the opportunities are rich.

If you’re a student in Delhi looking to build tech skills, expand your network, and elevate your career trajectory — these hackathons are your launchpads.

Ready to hack? 🚀