The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched ‘Navachar Mantra’, a national initiative aimed at identifying, nurturing, and scaling grassroots innovations and entrepreneurship across India. The programme was inaugurated by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, at IIT Delhi.
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 initiative seeks to empower innovators and entrepreneurs from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, aspirational districts, and underserved regions.
Speaking at the launch, Shri Jayant Chaudhary emphasized the need for India to emerge as a global source of innovation and technology. He encouraged young innovators to pursue ideas driven by passion and purpose, highlighting that meaningful innovation often stems from genuine enthusiasm and commitment.
Navachar Mantra focuses on key sectors such as Agritech, HealthTech, EdTech and Skilling, Climate and Sustainability, Rural Commerce, and MSME Enablement. The programme will provide participants with access to mentorship, investor networks, policymakers, industry experts, and growth opportunities to help transform innovative ideas into sustainable enterprises.
Applications for the programme are now open and will remain available until July 5, 2026. A multi-stage evaluation process involving experts from academia, industry, government, and investment sectors will identify high-potential ventures from across the country.
Selected innovators will participate in a year-long engagement programme featuring mentorship sessions, webinars, innovation showcases, investor interactions, and business development support. Participants will also receive guidance on intellectual property, regulatory compliance, fundraising, market access, and scaling strategies.
The initiative will conclude with a national showcase event, providing innovators with visibility, recognition, and opportunities to connect with key stakeholders, further strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem and contributing to the vision of a self-reliant and innovation-driven Viksit Bharat.
