Meet the 13th Cohort of Emergent Ventures India, Driving India’s Future
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India’s innovation landscape is buzzing, and at the forefront of nurturing groundbreaking ideas is the Mercatus Center’s Emergent Ventures India program. On November 26, 2025, they proudly unveiled their 13th cohort, a diverse group of visionaries tackling challenges from healthcare to space exploration. This latest batch of recipients is set to revolutionize various sectors, embodying the spirit of “zero to one” thinking that defines true progress. From life-saving medical devices for remote areas to advanced agri-tech solutions, these projects highlight the incredible potential and ingenuity flourishing across the nation. Join us as we dive into some of the most exciting emerging technologies and social impact initiatives from this remarkable cohort.
Vatsal Hariramani: Life-Saving Neonatal Incubators for Rural India (Healthcare Tech)
One of the most impactful grants addresses a critical need in healthcare tech: Vatsal Hariramani, a 21-year-old engineering student, is developing a smart and affordable neonatal incubator specifically designed for remote terrain. This project has the potential to drastically reduce infant mortality rates in underserved regions of rural India, providing crucial early-life support where specialized medical facilities are scarce. It’s a testament to how innovative engineering can directly translate into profound social impact and save lives.
Yash Darji: Fostering Space Exploration in Ahmedabad
Venturing into the cosmos, Yash Darji, a 20-year-old engineering student, received support to kickstart an experimental rocketry community in Ahmedabad. This initiative is a beacon for space exploration India, fostering a new generation of scientists and engineers passionate about aerospace. By democratizing access to rocketry and STEM education, Darji’s project aims to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem for future space innovations, inspiring countless young minds to reach for the stars. This is a crucial step for India’s burgeoning presence in the global space race.
Rushab M: Wearable Tech for Outdoor Worker Safety
Addressing practical challenges for everyday workers, Rushab M is developing a groundbreaking jacket controlling body temperature for outdoor workers. This wearable tech solution is a game-changer for individuals laboring in extreme climates, whether in scorching heat or biting cold. This smart clothing provides comfort and safety, enhancing productivity and worker well-being, aligning with global trends in outdoor worker safety and ergonomic design.
Deev Mehta: Agri-Tech India with Autonomous Farming Rovers
In the realm of sustainable agriculture, 17-year-old Deev Mehta is making strides with a grant to develop a rover making farming autonomous. This agri-tech India innovation promises to enhance efficiency, reduce manual labor, and optimize crop yields, contributing significantly to food security and sustainable agriculture practices. The integration of AI in farming through such robotics represents the future of agricultural productivity, especially vital for India’s vast agricultural sector.
Beyond the Highlights: Diverse Indian Startups in the 13th Cohort
The 13th cohort’s impact extends far beyond these five highlighted projects, showcasing the sheer breadth of Indian startups and entrepreneurial spirit. Explore more groundbreaking ventures:
- Soumil Nema: Pioneering Stem Cell Therapies for neurological disorders.
- Anushka Punukollu’s SucroSoil: Repurposing sugarcane waste to combat soil erosion, a step for sustainable agriculture.
- Adithya Sakaray, Steve Aldrin, and Aadhithya D’s Recruitr AI: Automating video interviews with AI-powered recruitment.
- Prakyath Gowda: Innovating with a lightweight EV battery, contributing to emerging technologies in electric mobility.
- Aaron Rego’s Rightful project: Helping Indian families recover unclaimed financial assets.
- Mihir Maroju’s Open Blood: A vital blood donation platform.
- Uddhav Gupta: Developing a speech therapy application for children with special needs.
- Shwapno Rahman: Creating low-cost computers for those below the poverty line, addressing digital inclusion.
- Habel Anwar: A 13-year-old receiving support for physics Olympiad preparation and research, highlighting the vibrant startup ecosystem.
- Career development grants for Samarth K J and Krupal Virani, bolstering the future of tech in India.
Emergent Ventures, founded in 2018 by the Mercatus Center and led by faculty director Tyler Cowen, is more than just a grant program; it’s a fellowship dedicated to empowering individuals with scalable ideas that promise to improve society. With dedicated support for India, Africa, and the Caribbean, or Ukraine, the program’s global reach is substantial. The India arm, specifically, thrives under the leadership of Shruti Rajagopalan, continuing its mission to identify and champion visionary leaders.
The 13th cohort of Emergent Ventures India stands as a powerful testament to the nation’s burgeoning innovation scene. These inspiring individuals, fueled by grants and mentorship, are not just building businesses; they are crafting solutions to pressing global challenges. From advancing medical innovation to fostering a robust startup ecosystem, their efforts are shaping the future of India and beyond. We eagerly anticipate the transformative impact these projects will have, underscoring India’s pivotal role in driving global progress and emerging technologies. The journey of these innovators is just beginning, and the world is watching.
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