The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is hosting a number of competitions as part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh 2025 to encourage innovation in a number of industries, including biotech, robotics, AI, cybersecurity, and more. According to Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, the competition will have a prize fund of Rs 70 crore.
Goyal claims that the Startup MahaRathi Challenge is the biggest privately funded challenge in India. Additionally, he stated that the Rs 70 crore prize money would be given out to support new businesses.
In order to register for the competition, which took place between February 26 and March 12, 2025, startups had to be approved by the DPIIT. Startups in their early to growth stages that were actively operating throughout India were eligible.
The opportunity to take part in mentorship programs tailored to their industry will be extended to shortlisted startups. A Grand Jury will hear pitches from the top 150 startups at Startup Mahakumbh 2025. During the competition in New Delhi, there will be a live pitching finale.
Funding, mentoring, and national recognition will be given to the winners, giving them a stage on which to present their innovations to a larger audience.
According to the official website, the challenge encompasses a number of themes, such as artificial intelligence (AI), deep tech and cybersecurity, climate tech, agri-tech, gaming and sports, fintech, and more. Both financial and non-financial incentives will be advantageous to participants.
While non-fiscal benefits include networking opportunities and mentorship from top corporations, foundations, investors, legislators, and thought leaders, fiscal incentives include cash awards, grants, and corporate credits.
