AIC-JKLU Founders Honored by President of India for Groundbreaking Innovations

The recent recognition of two startup founders from Atal Incubation Centre–JK Lakshmipat University (AIC-JKLU) by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan is more than just an accolade; it's a powerful testament to the potential of grassroots innovation and the transformative role of educational institutions. This honor celebrates not only the ingenuity of individual entrepreneurs but also the supportive ecosystem that nurtures their groundbreaking ideas, offering inspiration to students, parents, and educators across the nation.

According to AIC-JKLU, Neha Solanki, founder of Unnati Adaptive Devices, and Chirag M G, founder of Sunbird Straws, were among 26 innovators from across India selected for the Grassroots Innovator Recognition 2026. Their innovations, focusing on assistive technology for children with disabilities and sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic, exemplify how local solutions can address significant societal and environmental needs.

Empowering Children with Assistive Technology

Neha Solanki's Unnati Adaptive Devices, a Jodhpur-based startup, is making a profound difference in the lives of children with disabilities. The organization states that her venture addresses a critical gap in India's assistive technology sector by developing affordable adaptive equipment. Its flagship product, the Buddy Chair, is designed to provide essential postural support, stability, and comfort for children aged four to twelve during various daily activities, including learning, therapy, and meals.

For parents and teachers, access to affordable and effective assistive devices can be life-changing. Such innovations enable children to participate more fully in educational settings and daily life, fostering greater independence and inclusion. According to AIC-JKLU, Unnati Adaptive Devices is also developing Freedom Ride, an adaptive stroller for older children, and plans to expand its work through customized devices, caregiver support, and awareness programs for families and therapy centers. This holistic approach underscores the deep understanding of the challenges faced by these families and the commitment to providing comprehensive solutions.

Solanki shared, according to the university, that "Receiving this recognition from the Hon'ble President of India is an incredible honour. The early support from AIC-JKLU played a vital role in helping us transform an idea into a solution that today supports hundreds of children and their families." This highlights the crucial role of incubation centers in turning promising ideas into tangible, impactful realities.

Pioneering Sustainable Alternatives

Chirag M G's Sunbird Straws offers an ingenious solution to the pervasive problem of single-use plastic pollution. The company, as stated by AIC-JKLU, manufactures drinking straws from naturally dried coconut leaves and other agricultural residue through a chemical-free process. This provides an eco-friendly alternative to plastic straws, which are a significant environmental concern.

Beyond its environmental benefits, Sunbird Straws also creates value by utilizing agricultural waste that might otherwise be discarded or burned, generating livelihood opportunities for local communities. This dual impact—environmental sustainability coupled with economic empowerment—showcases a model of innovation that benefits both the planet and its people. The organization also notes that the company is exploring the use of additional agricultural materials, such as pineapple and pandanus leaves, to further expand its portfolio of sustainable products.

Chirag M G stated, according to AIC-JKLU, that "This recognition reinforces our commitment to developing practical and scalable alternatives to single-use plastic while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities at the grassroots level." His words emphasize the practical and scalable nature of these solutions, which is essential for widespread adoption and lasting impact.

The Role of Incubation and Support

The success of Unnati Adaptive Devices and Sunbird Straws is a clear reflection of the supportive environment fostered by AIC-JKLU. Nidhi Kachhawa, Chief Executive Officer, AIC-JKLU, commented on the achievement, stating, "This national recognition reflects the immense potential of grassroots innovation in solving real societal and environmental challenges. We are proud to see our incubated startups being recognised at the highest level and remain committed to supporting entrepreneurs who create meaningful and scalable impact."

This commitment extends beyond initial incubation. AIC-JKLU, according to its statement, will continue supporting both ventures in their next phase of product development, strategic partnerships, and market expansion. This ongoing mentorship and resource provision are vital for startups to navigate the complexities of growth and scale their impact.

For students considering careers in innovation or entrepreneurship, this story serves as a powerful example of how dedication and a supportive ecosystem can lead to national recognition and tangible change. It underscores the value of pursuing ideas that address real-world problems, no matter how local or niche they may seem initially. Aspiring innovators can find valuable resources for their academic journey, including a free practice hub by grade and subject, which can help build foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills essential for future problem-solving.

A Bright Future for Grassroots Innovation

The honoring of these two AIC-JKLU founders by the President of India is a moment of immense pride and a beacon of hope. It highlights India's rich landscape of grassroots innovation and the increasing recognition of its power to drive progress. For families and communities, these innovations offer practical solutions that improve lives and promote sustainability. For educators, it’s a reminder of the importance of fostering creativity, critical thinking, and an entrepreneurial spirit in the next generation. Platforms like COSMIQ, a free voice-driven AI tutor, can further empower K-12 students by providing personalized learning support, helping them develop the skills needed to become future innovators and problem-solvers.

As AIC-JKLU strengthens its commitment to fostering inclusive innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, we can anticipate more groundbreaking solutions emerging from its vibrant ecosystem, contributing to a brighter, more equitable, and sustainable future for all.