On May 18, 2025, Union Minister for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, hailed IIT Ropar for its pioneering efforts in promoting Agri-Startups in Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns during the Pragati Founder Forum in New Delhi. Highlighting the rise of India’s startup ecosystem, he noted, “Nearly 50% of India’s startups are now emerging from smaller towns,” crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s StandUp India, StartUp India initiative for democratizing entrepreneurship across the nation.
Breaking the IT Myth with Agri-Innovation
Dr. Jitendra Singh debunked the notion that startups are limited to IT ventures, emphasizing the transformative potential of traditional sectors like agriculture when coupled with innovation. He praised IIT Ropar, established in 2008, for fostering Agri-Startups that are driving grassroots innovation. The minister highlighted the Purple Revolution—lavender cultivation originating in Jammu & Kashmir and now thriving in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand—as a success story, with over 3,000 startups benefiting from government support and market linkages to perfumeries in Mumbai.
India’s Startup Boom and Economic Vision
The minister underscored the role of startups as enablers in propelling India from the Fragile Five to a top-five global economy by 2047. India’s rise from 81st to 39th in the Global Innovation Index reflects the impact of science and technology startups, Agri-innovation, and deep tech. Dr. Singh also announced that 70% of resources for the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF) will come from non-government sectors, fostering public-private synergy.
Key Initiatives Launched
During the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh launched several initiatives to bolster India’s startup ecosystem: - SPRINT – Haryana and Telangana Editions: Regional deep-tech innovation programs to support early-stage startups. - PRAGATI Report: A strategic blueprint for inclusive innovation and public-private partnerships. - Farming on the Edge Thematic Report: An in-depth study of challenges faced by small and marginal farmers. - Office of Intellectual Property & Technology Commercialisation (OITC): A virtual inauguration to enhance IP creation and commercialization for startups. He also awarded five startups under the Investment category: Blu Cocoon Digital Pvt. Ltd., Rezovate Constructions Pvt. Ltd., Wawe Technologies, Biofield Power Pvt. Ltd., and Karmath Engineering Pvt. Ltd..
| Startup Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Blu Cocoon Digital Pvt. Ltd. | Investment |
| Rezovate Constructions Pvt. Ltd. | Investment |
| Wawe Technologies | Investment |
| Biofield Power Pvt. Ltd. | Investment |
| Karmath Engineering Pvt. Ltd. | Investment |
Operation Sindoor: A Technological Triumph
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted Operation Sindoor as a testament to India’s dominance in tech-enabled warfare. Driven by indigenous innovation and collaboration between private and government sectors in hubs like Hyderabad and Bengaluru, this operation showcases India’s advancements in military technology. The minister stressed that early industry linkages are critical for startup success, urging students and parents to prioritize innovation over traditional career paths.
Inclusive Innovation and Future Goals
Smt. Rekha Sharma, MP Rajya Sabha and former NCW Chairperson, emphasized the need for inclusive innovation and greater women’s participation in startups. Prof. Abhay Karnadikar, Secretary, DST, highlighted India’s momentum in AI, Cyber-Physical Systems, and the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). Dr. Singh concluded, “Innovation, inclusion, and intent are the pillars of India’s ascent to global leadership by 2047.”
Key Highlights of Pragati Founder Forum
- Held on May 18, 2025, hosted by IIT Ropar with DST support in New Delhi.
- Nearly 50% of India’s startups now emerge from Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns.
- Launched SPRINT, PRAGATI Report, Farming on the Edge Report, and OITC.
- Purple Revolution supports over 3,000 Agri-Startups in lavender cultivation.
- Operation Sindoor showcases India’s leadership in tech-enabled warfare.