Kozhikode to host ZSI hackathon on traditional biodiversity knowledge

To commemorate a milestone of 111 years of scientific excellence, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) will organise a 111-hour continuous National Hackathon. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between indigenous knowledge systems and modern technology to address critical challenges in global biodiversity conservation.

Officials said the event would serve as a collaborative platform where tradition meets cutting-edge science. ZSI has invited a diverse cohort of innovators including students, researchers, technologists, and indigenous knowledge holders to co-create sustainable solutions for the natural world.

The hackathon encourages participation from various fields to work together on diverse projects such as mobile and web applications for conservation tracking, AI algorithms and prototypes based on traditional knowledge, GIS-based mapping and digital knowledge repositories, and community-driven policy frameworks and conservation proposals.

As part of the national initiative, the Western Ghat Regional Centre (WGRC) in Kozhikode will host a specialised leg of the hackathon on May 25, 2026. The regional event will focus on the theme “Traditional Biodiversity Knowledge in Kerala/Karnataka”.

Exceptional innovations stand a chance to win prizes of up to ₹1 lakh. The grand finale of the competition will be held at the ZSI headquarters in Kolkata. The competition is open to teams of up to three members, and there are no age restrictions for applicants. The deadline for submitting applications is May 20. Interested participants can register through the official portal, www.hackathon.zsi.org.in. For inquiries or further information, please contact the organising team at 9447470439.