Mumbai: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh spotlighted the significant yet untapped potential of marine startups during the inaugural session of the CSIR Start-up Conclave 2025 in Mumbai.
Addressing scientists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, Dr. Singh emphasized that India’s journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat will require leveraging underexplored sectors like the marine economy, particularly given India’s 7,500 km-long coastline.
The Minister pointed out that the Deep Sea Mission, first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the Red Fort, marked a turning point in how the marine sector is perceived and supported in India. He noted that coastal cities like Mumbai are well-positioned to become hubs for marine startups, entrepreneurship and innovation.
Highlighting the democratization of India’s startup ecosystem, Dr. Singh stated that 49% of recognized startups now originate from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, a significant indicator of inclusive growth. He dispelled the myth that a formal science degree is necessary for startup success, stressing instead the importance of passion and problem-solving aptitude.
During the event, Dr. Singh released a compendium titled “Towards Viksit Bharat — CSIR Technologies Empowering the Nation”, documenting over 400 technology transfers and 125+ startups incubated by CSIR. He hailed India’s rise in the Global Innovation Index from rank 81 in 2014 to rank 40 in 2023, backed by policy reforms, startup incentives, and strategic collaborations.
“This conclave is a clear reflection of the shift from science for science’s sake to science for society’s benefit,” said Dr. Singh.
The event also showcased a newly inaugurated CSIR Innovation Complex in Mumbai, designed to support MSMEs and startups with advanced infrastructure, regulatory support, and business incubation facilities. Dr. Singh applauded the integration of platforms like Shark Tank into science conclaves, bridging the gap between research and real-world commercialization.
CSIR’s nationwide network of labs continues to nurture deep-tech ventures, including those in green hydrogen, AI-driven healthcare, and clean energy. The inaugural day featured a Shark Tank-style pitching session, drawing praise from investors and entrepreneurs alike.
As India looks toward its 2047 independence centenary, Dr. Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering the startup ecosystem through initiatives like NIDHI, TIDE, and Technology Business Incubators (TBIs).
Marine startups – Real Spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat
“Marine startups and Tier 2 innovations represent the real spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat,” he said.
The conclave, which continues on May 21, brings together over 100 CSIR scientists, tech developers, and key industry stakeholders to explore actionable collaborations and accelerate deep-tech commercialization.
