Dharmendra Pradhan flags India’s innovation push; deep-tech startups set for Bharat Innovates 2026

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay concluded the Bharat innovates deep-tech pre-summit on Sunday, March 22, 2026, in the presence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The event highlighted India’s growing focus on innovation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, helping position the country as a rising global hub for deep-tech and startups.

While interacting with the media, Dharmendra said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has made innovation a priority in India. India’s deep technology and the startup ecosystem emerging from our students will now be showcased on a global platform.”

He added that the upcoming Bharat Innovates 2026 event in France will coincide with the G7 Summit, where PM Modi is expected to represent India alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. “This initiative reflects our effort to take India’s innovation story to the world and build stronger global partnerships,” he said.

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Strong push for deep-tech, startups

Highlighting the scale of participation, the minister said nearly 3,000 applications have been received for deep-tech initiatives in recent months. “A three-stage selection process is underway, and around 138 startups have pitched their ideas here in Mumbai over the past two days,” he said.

He further stated, “There are many globally competitive ideas emerging, from sustainability to disruptive technologies and new economic models. Some of these projects will now move forward through collaboration between industry and academia.”

Strong innovation culture

Pradhan stressed the need to embed innovation across all levels of education and industry. “Innovation in India must become a culture, from school education to productisation,” he said.

Referring to government initiatives, he noted that under the Atal Innovation Mission, over 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs have already been set up, and the government is working to expand this to 50,000.

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He also outlined priority sectors, saying, “India’s focus should be on sustainability, agriculture, healthcare, livelihoods and manufacturing. Through deep technology, India can meet the needs of the Global South.”

Bharat Innovates to expand

Calling the pre-summit a success, the minister said in the coming days initiative will grow further. Bharat Innovates will be developed into a societal movement involving industry, investors, academia and policymakers.

“I urge all stakeholders to convert India’s technological capabilities into a strong global narrative. Our government stands firmly behind the potential of India’s youth. I am here as their mentor, and we are committed to supporting them as they move forward,” Pradhan added.