Data Sprint 2026 – Machine Learning Hackathon

Data Sprint 2026 is an online Machine Learning hackathon designed to provide students with an opportunity to test their analytical thinking, data science knowledge, and practical machine learning skills in a competitive environment. Participants will work on real-world datasets and apply their understanding of data analysis, visualization, and machine learning techniques to solve practical problems. The hackathon encourages participants to follow a complete machine learning workflow, from understanding raw data to building predictive models. This event is organized by the Data Science Club to promote innovation and learning in the field of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Students from NIST University, Berhampur and Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology, Delhi are actively involved in organizing and supporting this hackathon, making it a collaborative initiative aimed at encouraging practical learning and innovation in Machine Learning. Eligibility: Open to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year students only Open to students interested in Data Science and Machine Learning Participants should have basic knowledge of Python and data analysis Individual participation only (no teams allowed) Inter-college participation is allowed Competition Format: The hackathon will consist of two rounds. Round 1 – Quiz Round Number of Questions: 15 MCQs Duration: 30 Minutes This round will test participants on fundamental concepts including: Python Basics Data Science Fundamentals Basic Machine Learning Concepts Logical and Analytical Thinking Participants with the highest scores will qualify for the next round. Round 2 – Machine Learning Challenge This is the hands-on Machine Learning round where participants will solve real-world ML problems using the provided datasets. The problem statements and datasets will be released at the start of the round on Unstop or in the official WhatsApp group. Participants are strongly advised to join the WhatsApp group to receive important announcements, dataset links, and updates. Join the official WhatsApp group:Click Here Participants may need to apply Machine Learning or Deep Learning techniques depending on the dataset (including image datasets). Evaluation will be based on the overall workflow, approach, model performance, and understanding of Machine Learning concepts. Rules: Participants must compete individually Any form of plagiarism or copying will lead to disqualification Participants must submit their solutions within the given time limit All participants must follow the guidelines provided during the competition The decision of the organizing team and judges will be final Rewards: Total Prize Pool: ₹120,000 Top 6 Winners will receive 1-Year Infinity Plan Subscription from HackerRank (worth ₹20,000 each) Additional Rewards Top performers will also receive exclusive HackerRank merchandise