On May 22, 2025, the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, announced a Nationwide Hackathon on CCTV Solutions for Law Enforcement. Organized in collaboration with the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and CyberPeace Foundation, this initiative aims to foster indigenous, secure, and scalable CCTV solutions tailored to the needs of Indian Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs).
Driving a Cyber-Secure Bharat
Vision of the Modi Government
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the Union Government is committed to creating a cyber-secure Bharat. The hackathon is a significant step toward achieving this goal by encouraging innovators, start-ups, and research institutions to develop cutting-edge surveillance technologies that enhance national security and public safety.
Role of BPR&D in Innovation
Pioneering Technological Advancements
The BPR&D plays a pivotal role in this initiative, leveraging its technical expertise to foster home-grown technological solutions. By focusing on the specific operational needs of Indian LEAs, the hackathon aims to develop solutions that are not only innovative but also cost-effective and scalable.
Key Focus Areas of the Hackathon
Addressing Critical Challenges
The hackathon, which kicked off with a curtain-raiser event on May 9, 2025, released four problem statements to guide participants. These focus areas include:
- Development of secure and indigenous CCTV hardware and systems.
- Integration of Artificial Intelligence and smart video analytics.
- Strengthening cyber security across CCTV networks.
- Designing affordable and efficient surveillance solutions.
These focus areas aim to address critical challenges in modern policing, ensuring transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency.
Grand Finale and Awards
Recognizing Innovation
The Grand Finale of the hackathon is scheduled for the last week of June 2025. The top three entries will receive cash prizes, with the first, second, and third places awarded Rs. 5 Lakh, Rs. 3 Lakh, and Rs. 1 Lakh, respectively. Additionally, five consolation prizes will be given to entries showcasing exceptional promise and creativity.
Below is a summary of the hackathon details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Announcement Date | May 22, 2025 |
| Curtain Raiser Event | May 9, 2025 |
| Grand Finale | Last week of June 2025 |
| Organizers | BPR&D, NCRB, CyberPeace Foundation |
| Prize Structure | 1st: Rs. 5 Lakh, 2nd: Rs. 3 Lakh, 3rd: Rs. 1 Lakh, 5 Consolation Prizes |
| Focus Areas | Secure CCTV hardware, AI integration, cybersecurity, affordable solutions |
Impact on Policing
Transforming Law Enforcement
The winning solutions from the hackathon are expected to play a transformative role in modernizing policing in India. By integrating advanced technologies like AI and smart analytics, these solutions will enhance transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in law enforcement operations, contributing to a safer and more secure society.
Key Highlights
- National Hackathon on CCTV Solutions announced on May 22, 2025, by BPR&D, NCRB, and CyberPeace Foundation.
- Aims to develop indigenous, secure, and scalable CCTV solutions for Indian LEAs.
- Curtain-raiser event held on May 9, 2025.
- Grand Finale scheduled for the last week of June 2025 with cash prizes for top entries.
- Focus areas include AI integration, cybersecurity, and affordable surveillance solutions.
- Aligns with the vision of a cyber-secure Bharat under PM Modi and Shri Amit Shah.