700 school teams enter contest to find tech solutions for state’s garbage issues

Panaji: Close to 700 teams from schools across Goa have registered to compete in a challenge, being held for students of the coding and robotics programme in schools, to find solutions to the state’s garbage issues.

The ‘ATAL Nirnay-Goa Codes 2026’ competition is being held for students from Classes VI to IX. The first phase of selection was held in Feb with statewide orientation sessions for heads of institutions.


“The competition is structured as a 28-day challenge. The focus is not merely on conducting activities, but on nurturing lasting environmental values and habits. The competition integrates eco-awareness, robotics, innovation, and community participation,” said Vijay Borges, the project director of the special cell created at the directorate of technical education for the implementation of CM-CARES (Coding and Robotics Education in Schools Scheme).

He said five events will be held as part of the competition—the Smart Waste Solution Challenge (Eco-Tech Advancement), Garbage Awareness Campaign-From Home to Community, Clean Goa Action Drive, Digital Awareness Campaign, and Study and Documentation.

“As part of these, students identify real waste management issues, develop innovative models and prototypes, conduct awareness campaigns, engage with local communities, and document measurable environmental impact,” Borges said.

The competition is organised by the PMU and the Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC).

The winning teams at the state-level will receive Rs 50,000 as the first prize, Rs 40,000 as second prize, and Rs 30,000 as third prize. Consolation prizes of Rs 10,000 each will also be given to recognise special efforts.

In addition, taluka-level winners will receive Rs 8,000 and Rs 6,000 respectively.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Holi wishes, messages and quotes !