MSDE Launches ‘Navachar Mantra’ to Support Grassroots Innovators

Speaking at the launch, Jayant Chaudhary said India should aspire not only to manufacture products for the world but also to develop technologies that shape the future globally.

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched 'Navachar Mantra', a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing grassroots innovators and early-stage entrepreneurs across India. The programme seeks to create new opportunities for innovators from smaller towns, rural areas and underserved regions by connecting them with mentorship, funding networks and industry expertise.

The initiative was launched by Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary, at IIT Delhi. It is being implemented by the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) in partnership with the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), IIT Delhi. The programme forms part of the government's broader effort to strengthen India's innovation ecosystem and encourage entrepreneurship-led economic growth.

Focus on Innovation Across Emerging Sectors

Speaking at the launch, Jayant Chaudhary said India should aspire not only to manufacture products for the world but also to develop technologies that shape the future globally. He highlighted sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, green energy, biotechnology, digital public infrastructure and advanced manufacturing as areas where Indian innovators can make a significant impact. He encouraged young innovators to pursue ideas and careers driven by passion and purpose, noting that meaningful innovations often emerge when individuals work on challenges that genuinely inspire them.

Navachar Mantra will support innovators working in priority sectors including Agritech, HealthTech, EdTech and Skilling, Climate and Sustainability, Rural Commerce and MSME Enablement. The initiative aims to help participants refine their ideas, strengthen business models and accelerate growth through structured support systems.

Year-Long Mentorship and Growth Opportunities

Registrations for the programme are now open through a dedicated digital platform, with applications being accepted until 5 July 2026. A multi-stage evaluation process involving experts from academia, industry, investment firms and government institutions will identify high-potential ventures from across the country. Selected participants will take part in a year-long engagement programme that includes mentorship roundtables, thematic webinars, innovation showcases, investor interactions and national-level networking opportunities.

The initiative will provide guidance on business development, market access, intellectual property management, regulatory compliance, fundraising and scaling strategies. Innovators will also receive support in securing partnerships, pilot projects and commercial opportunities that can help transform ideas into sustainable enterprises.

National Platform for Grassroots Entrepreneurs

A key element of Navachar Mantra is its emphasis on visibility and recognition for emerging entrepreneurs. Selected innovators will gain access to national platforms through ministerial podcasts, innovation showcases, digital campaigns and ecosystem events. The programme will culminate in a national showcase event where innovators will interact with policymakers, investors, industry leaders and startup ecosystem stakeholders. Organisers believe the initiative will help create a stronger pipeline of innovation-led enterprises while promoting inclusive entrepreneurship across the country. The launch event was attended by senior government officials, industry leaders, academics and representatives from innovation and startup ecosystems, reflecting broad support for the initiative's goal of building a self-reliant and innovation-driven India.