The Design for Bharat Innovation Challenge 2026, organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, and conducted by the School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi, brought together young designers from across the country to address real-world challenges through design-led innovation.

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay coordinated the Maharashtra state-level process, which saw strong participation from colleges across the state. Twenty projects were shortlisted, with three entries—two from IIT Bombay—advancing to the national round. At the national level, Mr. Ken Benedict, M.Des student from the IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay, secured a place among the Top 5 entries nationwide.

A post-selection exhibition at IIT Bombay showcased projects addressing rural and urban issues ranging from agriculture, water systems, health, and education to last-mile urban mobility—demonstrating how design grounded in local realities enables technology to be applied with relevance, sensitivity, and inclusive intent.