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HomePosts Tagged "Amardeep Singh Bhatia"
AgroPolicy, Collaborations, India, Start ups

The event will showcase sectoral pavilions focused on AI, Deeptech & Cybersecurity, HealthTech & BioTech, AgriTech, Climate Tech, Incubators & Accelerators, D2C, FinTech, Gaming & Sports, B2B & Precision Manufacturing, Defence & Space Tech and Mobility.

 To accelerate its vision for – Startup India @ 2047: Unfolding the Bharat Story –organizing committee members of Startup Mahakumbh supported by The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has scheduled an evening of innovation and startups at Vanijya Bhawan with attendees panning across the globe.

To foster collaboration at a global scale, the evening is set to witness delegates from 50+ countries to witness the scale of world’s largest congregation of startups in India at the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh slated to be held at Bharat Mandapam from April 3-5, 2025.

Igniting a New Era of Global Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the landmark event – Startup Mahakumbh – will aim to shape the future of India’s startup ecosystem with a focus on a self-reliant and innovative Viksit Bharat by 2047. The event will showcase sectoral pavilions focused on AI, Deeptech & Cybersecurity, HealthTech & BioTech, AgriTech, Climate Tech, Incubators & Accelerators, D2C, FinTech, Gaming & Sports, B2B & Precision Manufacturing, Defence & Space Tech and Mobility. Each pavilion will host sector-based exhibitions, conference sessions, master classes, pitching opportunities, roundtables, etc., to facilitate global exposure and opportunities for startups.

Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, states, “By fostering an innovation-driven culture, this evening will play an integral role in shaping the future of disruptive Indian entrepreneurs. With delegates from over 50 countries, Startup Mahakumbh will be an unprecedented opportunity to showcase the breadth and potential of India’s startup ecosystem on a global stage.”

Asserting the position of India as a key figure in the global startup ecosystem, Shri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, said, “The evening will help showcase the expanse of India’s startup ecosystem at a convivial yet innovative evening. Ambassadors, Consulates, Deputy High Commissioners, alongside many others from countries such as Italy, Spain, Brazil, Korea, Sri Lanka, among others will help in bridging global networks and fostering collaboration among startups and key stakeholders.”

Archana Jahagirdar, Founding & Managing Partner, Rukam Capital and member of the Organizing Committee at Startup Mahakumbh, said, “Startup Mahakumbh is a remarkable initiative that brings together the best of global innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. It is exciting to witness India’s vibrant startup ecosystem on such a grand stage. This evening provides a unique platform to foster meaningful connections, share insights, and collaborate, driving growth and creating opportunities for disruptive startups to thrive on a global scale.”

The event will showcase sectoral pavilions focused

AgroPolicy, Finance, India, Start ups

A flagship initiative to support early and growth-stage startups across 11 key sectors.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), in collaboration with Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), IVCA, HDFC, among others, announced the launch of the Startup Maha Rathi challenge as part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh. A flagship initiative aimed at empowering Indian startups through every nook and corner of the country with funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance, this challenge aligns with India’s long-term vision of becoming a developed economy (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. The challenge is set to provide access to up to a Rs 30 crore fund, mentorship from industry experts, and networking opportunities with global investors. In addition, it will also entail special awards for innovative startups from emerging states and union territories through a dedicated program.

Startup Maha Rathi – Rising towards Viksit Bharat – is designed to open doors for budding entrepreneurs across 11 key sectors, including AI & DeepTech, BioTech & Healthtech, Gaming & Sports, Fintech, Incubators & Accelerators, Mobility, Agritech, B2B & Precision Manufacturing, D2C, ClimateTech, and Defence & SpaceTech. The program would be awarded by the Honourable Minister of Commerce and Industry and is aimed at equipping startups with the necessary resources to scale their operations and contribute to India’s technological and economic advancement. Startups selected through this initiative will gain exposure to global markets through Startup India, access to mentorship from industry veterans, investor networking opportunities, and national-level recognition by DPIIT.

The competition will follow a structured, multi-phase selection process, beginning with the application launch on February 26, 2025, and culminate after a 4-step process in an exclusive live pitching finale from April 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. While each startup shortlisted for the grand jury round receive a guaranteed Rs 1 Lakh, top two startups from each sector will be awarded Rs 10 lakh respectively, while the next five will receive Rs 5 lakh each. Next 5 startups in each track will gain access to Rs 3 lakhs each in addition to financial grants, participating startups will receive expert guidance and investor access through a jury comprising 100+ leading VCs, angel investors, and domain specialists from Starup India and organizations such as Avaana Capital, LetsVenture, KDEM, IVCA, HDFC among many others.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, said, “The Startup Maha Rathi initiative marks a pivotal stride toward achieving India’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’ By offering strategic financial support and expert mentorship, this initiative will empower the nation’s most promising startups to scale, innovate, and drive transformative change, strengthening India’s position as a global leader in entrepreneurship and innovation.”

Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, added, “India’s startup ecosystem is at an inflection point, and initiatives like this are crucial in ensuring that high-potential ventures receive the right support to thrive. By enabling a strong innovation-driven culture, the initiative will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of disruptive entrepreneurs.”

Anjali Bansal, Founding Partner, Avaana Capital, stated, “Initiatives like Startup Maha Rathi provide catalytic support to entrepreneurs solving for India’s critical priorities—green growth, sustainability, energy transition, food systems, agriculture, and deep tech. The programs not only showcase India’s entrepreneurial strength but also reinforces our ability to develop scalable solutions aligned with national priorities and position India as a global leader to accelerate towards a sustainable, inclusive and globally competitive Viksit Bharat.”

Applications for Startup Maha Rathi 2025 will open on February 26, 2025, with a deadline of March 7, 2025. The next round for startups that are shortlisted after an initial screening, will need to present virtually a jury panel between March 15 – 25th. Eligible startups must be DPIIT-recognized entities in their early or growth stages, operating in India as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm. Startups can apply through the official website: https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/ams-application/challenge.html?applicationId=67bdbb76e4b0c167e9f99da2

A flagship initiative to support early and

India, Interaction

Photo caption: Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Government of India lighting the lamp to inaugurate the Growers Conclave at the 5th World Coffee Conference 2023 along with other dignitaries on September 28, 2023 in Bengaluru.

“The demand for coffee has grown over the past decade. We consume close to 3 billion cups of coffee worldwide which is expected to double in the next 25 years,” said Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Government of India.

Speaking at the Growers Conclave, a critical component of the four-day event of 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) 2023 Bhatia said “The demand for coffee is being led by coffee producing countries who are rising to the demands despite the challenges of climate change and other factors.”

Bhatia further said “Adoption of sustainable practices which is the theme of this conference is apt and the discussions have resulted in enlightening insights. Coffee Growers are at the heart of this conference and therefore the conference addresses challenges and solutions aimed at this community, many of whom are fourth and fifth generation growers.”

At the session- Exploring Coffee Origins: An Insider’s Perspective of coffee production and agricultural practices Dr Manuel Diaz, Senior consultant

ONA Consulting, offered valuable insights into the journey of coffee from farm to market, focusing on the challenges faced by farmers and the strategies they employ to ensure high-quality coffee production. “The backbone of the coffee value system is the flavour of the coffee. We are still in the evolution phase of coffee processing. Fermentation, metabolic action, and heat pressure play an active role, as do methods of growing coffee in various regions. Hence, farmers need to focus on producing ‘flavours’ and not ‘beans’” explained Dr Diaz.  

Advancement in technology and innovation are the two primary factors which not only mitigate the negative impacts of climate change but also help to ramp up coffee production, said experts at the session on ‘Correlation of Quality with Advances in Machine Technology, Mechanisation and Processing of Coffee’. Coffee has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, but the way we produce and enjoy it has evolved significantly, thanks to the relentless progress of technology. “Technology can not only increase efficiency, but also offer better quality control and improve blends leading to more profits and happier clients”, said Carlos Brando, a coffee expert with over 20 years of experience in the coffee industry.

Dr K.G. Jagadeesha, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board of India and a host of esteemed dignitaries, government officials, national & international delegates and most importantly Coffee Growers were present at the Growers Conclave.

Photo caption: Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Additional Secretary,

AgroPolicy, India, Interaction

The 14th World Spice Congress commenced on Friday, September 15 in Navi Mumbai where Amardeep Singh Bhatia, IAS, Additional Secretary, Government of India said, the India Spice market will reach the milestone of $10 billion export by 2030.

The mega spice event, the 14th World Spice Congress (WSC) commenced on Friday, September 15 at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre at Vashi in Navi Mumbai where around 1300 delegates both from India and internationally participated with great enthusiasm. Amardeep Singh Bhatia, IAS, Additional Secretary, Dept. of Commerce, Government of India, during his inaugural address for the 14th edition of the WSC said that India’s spice export is $4 billion and is expected to reach $10 billion by 2030.

“India is a leading player in the global spice industry. Traditionally India has been the spice centre of the world. In order to ensure that India continues to maintain its traditional strength there are several things to work on in the entire chain of spices from growers to marketers,” he added. “It is a shared responsibility of the government and Spices Board to come up with schemes and programmes to facilitate testing labs, assessment quality standards, etc. This three-day event will give a lot of business opportunities to all the stakeholders, delegates, exhibitors and producers,” he said.

Highlighting the potentials of the Indian spices industry, D Sathiyan, Secretary, Spices Board, said, “The spices legacy is part of human culture. India is the spice bowl of the world. There is tremendous potential to explore product development, biotech, etc. in India. More than 75 spices are grown in India and each state has spices to offer. The future of the world spice industry will be discussed at the three-day event of World Spice Congress.”

The first day of the event commenced with the inauguration of an exhibition highlighting the variety of spices and value-added spice products as well as innovative technologies and solutions in the spices industry and a visual presentation on Indian Spice Sector by D Sathiyan, Secretary, Spices Board. While presenting he highlighted the illustrious journey of the Indian Spice industry, current trends, emphasizing technology, sustainability, and the demand for unique blends. With an eye on the future, he ignited optimism for the industry’s boundless growth potential in an increasingly diverse world.

                                                                                                                    By Abhitash Singh

The 14th World Spice Congress commenced on