The 3rd edition of the Nagaland Innovation Expo (NIE) 2026 was held on March 31 at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma (KSCJ), Nagaland, organized by the Research Scholars’ Forum, KSCJ, under the theme ‘Empowering Science, Technology and Digital Innovation.’
A press release by the Organizing Committee, Nagaland Innovation Expo 2026, stated that the event was sponsored by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Department of Information Technology and Communication, and the Department of Higher Education, Government of Nagaland.
The participants ranged from school-level students to a remarkable individual aged over 90 years, reflecting a truly diverse and inclusive platform for innovation.
The expo was graced by the special guest, Temjen Imna Along, minister of tourism and higher education, government of Nagaland, who emphasized the importance of science, innovation, and dedicated research among the youth.
Er. Sabou Yashu, director of information technology and communication, highlighted the evolving stage of innovation in the state and encouraged collaborative and sustainable technological development.
Dr. Medongoi Rhakho, Joint Director, Directorate of Higher Education, inspired the gathering with the message, ‘Thinking is Capital.’
The event successfully showcased innovative, real-world solutions developed by participants across categories. The projects were evaluated by an expert panel comprising Er. Yanpvuo Kikon (founder and director, Kikonik Tech Pvt. Ltd.), Dr. Samadangla Ao (associate professor, Department of Botany, KSCJ), and Er. Kikrukhrielie Khezhie (director, Nagabots Tech Ventures Pvt. Ltd.), based on presentation, originality, technical soundness, practical applicability, and social and environmental impact.
In Category I, ‘AI Farm-Connect, Nagaland’ secured first place with a cash prize of Rs 15,000. In the Category II, ‘Autonomous AI Drone for Bird Intrusion Prevention’ won first prize of Rs 30,000, followed by “Seed Priming” (Rs 20,000) and “Integrated Mobile for Forest Ecological Studies and Greenhouse” (Rs 10,000).
Special awards, sponsored by different departments of Kohima Science College, were also presented: Digital Architect Award (Dept. of Computer Science) to “MathVision”, Technical Prototype Award (Dept. of Physics) to “Kohima Connect”, Nature’s Guard Award (Dept. of Zoology) to “Herbal and Remedies”, Solution Finder Award (Dept. of Chemistry) to “Multipurpose Plucking Tool”, and Bright Venture Award (Dept. of Anthropology) to “Integrated Mobile for Forest Ecological Studies and Greenhouse”.
The expo received an enthusiastic response from attendees and successfully reinforced the importance of fostering a culture of innovation, inspiring students and researchers to develop impactful solutions for society.
