The RISC-V based Product Development Hackathon is not just an event—it's a journey from knowledge to application for innovation. Aimed to enlighten young India, this platform is crucial in navigating the intricate path from hardware design to the final product. Emphasizing the global need, yet with a deep-rooted Indian spirit, we underscore the essence of localisation for a sustainable future in electronics. This isn't merely about competition—it's about realizing the dream of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat”. More than a hackathon, it's a beacon for budding startups and student entrepreneurs, heralding a self-sufficient tomorrow.

The RISC-V based Product Development Hackathon is a distinctive event focused on the design and creation of products using the indigenous "VSDSquadron" RISC-V boards. Participants are challenged to harness the minimal features of the VSDSquadron boards, specifically the GPIOs and UART, to devise innovative applications tailored primarily for the realms of toys and IoT. A pivotal aspect of this hackathon is the emphasis on end-user simplicity: participants are encouraged to conceive uncomplicated yet impactful applications, with a particular inclination (but not limited to) towards sensor-based toys for children. In recognition of outstanding innovation, the top 10 contenders will be rewarded with prizes. Further amplifying the stakes, the leading three products will be introduced to the market by VSD and its associates, with the triumphant teams playing an integral role in the launch.

• To conceptualize, design, and develop innovative toys geared towards the educational and IoT-based toy market, ensuring functionality, affordability, and market-readiness.
• Utilize the indigenous "VSDSquadron" RISC-V boards for innovative design.
• Emphasize applications for sensor-based toys for children, and IoT.
• Ensure end-user simplicity in the applications developed.
• Reward the top 10 innovative designs.
• Launch the top three products in collaboration with VSD and its partners by the end of the hackathon.

The RISC-V based Product Development Hackathon is exclusively tailored for the bright minds of India. If you are a student currently enrolled in an educational institution in India, you are welcome to seize this unique opportunity. However, there's a specific criterion to bear in mind: participation is structured around teamwork. Every team must comprise of two members, fostering collaboration and mutual growth. So, gather your ideas, find a like-minded partner, and register to embark on this inventive journey. Remember, two heads are often better than one, and this event champions the essence of collective brainstorming and creation.

1. Target Market: Focus your product design specifically on the educational toys segment and IoT-based toys. The intent is to combine learning with interactive technology.
2. Available Interfaces: Your design should strictly employ the GPIOs and UART interfaces provided by the VSDSquadron board. These are the primary modes of communication and interaction for your product.
3. Budget Constraints: While innovation is key, cost-effectiveness is paramount. The total cost for the Bill of Materials (BOM) for your product, apart from the VSDSquadron board, should not surpass Rs.1500 or $20. It's a challenge to ensure that quality and innovation are balanced with affordability. FYI – BOM will be re-imbursed by VSD
4. Evaluation Criteria: The journey from an idea to a product is multifaceted. Finalists will be chosen not just based on the technical operation of their product but also on its market readiness, right up to the packaging. Every aspect, from functionality to presentation, will be scrutinized.

1. Exclusive Use of VSDSquadron: All participants must use only the VSDSquadron board for product development. No other boards or platforms are permitted.
2. Team Composition: Teams must comprise of exactly two members. Single-member teams or teams with more than two members will not be eligible.
3. Original Work: All submitted projects must be original work developed specifically for this hackathon. Reusing old projects or copying from other sources is strictly prohibited and will lead to disqualification.
4. Deadline Adherence: All project submissions must be made within the stipulated time frame announced at the beginning of the hackathon. Late submissions will not be considered.
5. Respect and Integrity: Participants are expected to maintain a professional and respectful demeanor throughout the event. Any form of harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior will result in immediate expulsion.
6. Confidentiality: Any proprietary information shared during the hackathon, if any, should be kept confidential. Misuse or disclosure can lead to disqualification and further legal actions.
7. Judging Criteria: Projects will be judged based on innovation, usability, adherence to the problem statement, and completeness from technical operation to packaging.
8. Intellectual Property: While participants retain rights to their ideas, the organizers reserve the right to publicize and share the winning projects. Participants may be required to sign an agreement related to IP before the commencement of the hackathon.
9. Usage of External Tools and Libraries: While external software tools and libraries can be used, they must be open-source and publicly available. Any tools or libraries used should be duly credited.
10. Decision Finality: Decisions made by the judging panel are final and binding. Any attempts to influence or dispute the judges' decisions will not be entertained.
11. Amendments: The organizers reserve the right to modify the rules and regulations at any point without prior notice to ensure the fair and smooth operation of the hackathon.