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Apeejay Stya University, Gurugram team wins second prize at Bioeconomy Hackathon 2026
Som Sarth and Ruchika Kaushik present an innovative solution to convert rice straw into nanocellulose-based capsules.
Students Som Sarth and Ruchika Kaushik, representing Team Alpha, from Apeejay Stya University, Gurugram secured the second prize at the Bioeconomy Hackathon 2026, organised by the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal. The event was held at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi bringing recognition to the University for its students’ innovative approach to addressing an environmental challenge through sustainable technology.
The team presented an idea centred on transforming rice straw, an agricultural residue often burnt after harvesting, into nanocellulose-based capsules. By exploring the potential of crop waste as a valuable resource, the project proposed an alternative approach to managing rice straw while creating opportunities for its productive utilisation.
The proposed solution involved a two-stage process. In the first stage, cellulose nanocrystals and nanofibres were to be extracted from rice straw. These extracted materials would then be used in the second stage to develop stable, UV-protected and water-dispersible formulations. The concept demonstrated how agricultural waste could serve as a raw material for developing value-added products through nanocellulose-based technology.
The idea addressed the environmental concerns associated with stubble burning, a practice that contributes to air pollution and poses challenges for sustainable agricultural waste management. Instead of treating rice straw as waste requiring disposal, Team Alpha’s approach focused on converting it into a useful resource. The proposed process also highlighted the possibility of generating additional value from crop residues, offering a potential benefit for farmers.
The project reflected the team’s effort to connect scientific innovation with a pressing environmental concern. By combining the principles of resource recovery and material development, the students presented a solution that placed sustainability at the centre of its approach. The use of nanocellulose-based formulations also underscored the potential of agricultural by-products in developing innovative applications.
In recognition of their idea, Som Sarth and Ruchika Kaushik received the second prize, along with a cash award of ₹10,000 and certificates. Their achievement at the national-level hackathon marked an encouraging milestone for the University and brought appreciation to their efforts in exploring practical, sustainability-oriented solutions.
The accomplishment highlights the role of young innovators in addressing environmental challenges through research-driven thinking and creative problem-solving. It also reinforces the importance of platforms such as the Bioeconomy Hackathon in encouraging students to develop ideas that connect scientific knowledge with real-world needs.
