Hardeep Singh Puri, the Union Minister for Water Resources, has launched a startup challenge with the goal of empowering 100 water-related startups.
The initiative is called the ‘India WaterPitch-Pilot-Scale Startup Challenge,’ and it was created by the Ministry Of Housing And Urban Affairs.
The selected startups will receive a grant of INR 20 lakhs as part of the programme. In addition, the Ministry will provide the selected startups with funding and mentorship.
‘The initiative aims to empower startups in the water sector to grow through innovation and design, which will drive sustainable economic growth and generate employment opportunities,’ the Ministry said in a statement.
Minister Puri made the announcement at an event in New Delhi as part of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation.
Speaking at the event, Puri lauded homegrown startups and assured them full and active support from the Centre.
He also said, “Startups are the flavour of the season as the number of unicorns in the country has jumped by leaps and bounds.”
Puri further added that, ”The scheme will ensure water security in the country, reduce its transportation costs, reduce groundwater contamination, and increase water utilisation capacity. For the success of the Mission, startups will have to play a meaningful role – by bringing in innovative ideas, technology, novel delivery mechanisms, among other things.”.
The event also saw several startups presenting their innovative ideas and cutting edge technologies.
Last October, the Union Cabinet approved AMRUT 2.0, which aims to make Indian cities “water secure.” The scheme aims to achieve universal water supply coverage by establishing 2.68 crore tap connections and 2.64 crore sewer connections.
The move is significant because India is experiencing a severe water shortage. The problem is particularly acute in rural areas, where women must travel hundreds of kilometres just to fetch a pail of water, with many being forced to drink contaminated water.
According to a 2019 report by NITI Aayog, India is experiencing its worst water crisis in history, with nearly 600 million people experiencing extreme to severe water stress.