AI-Preneurs of India

  • 19 Feb 2026

In News:

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog launched AI-Preneurs of India at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 held at Bharat Mandapam.

About AI-Preneurs of India

  • Nature: Flagship coffee table book.
  • Edition: 7th edition of AIM’s Innovations For You series.
  • Coverage: Chronicles journeys of 45 AI startups.
  • Source Base: Selected from nationwide network of Atal Incubation Centres (AICs).
  • Focus: AI solutions addressing real-world problems across India.

Key Features

  • Founder-First Storytelling Approach
    • Highlights motivations, challenges, perseverance and impact of entrepreneurs.
    • Moves beyond technical achievements to human-centered innovation narratives.
  • Sectoral Diversity (30 Domains): AI applications showcased in sectors such as:
    • Healthcare
    • Education
    • Sustainability
    • Mobility
    • Sports analytics
    • Deep-tech
    • Governance and social impact
  • Nationwide Representation
    • Reflects geographic diversity beyond metro tech hubs.
    • Demonstrates innovation emerging from Tier 2/3 cities and underserved regions.
  • Purpose-Driven AI Ecosystem
    • Emphasizes inclusive, ethical, and socially responsible AI.
    • Aligns AI development with national development priorities.

Significance for India

Positions India as a global contributor to responsible and inclusive Artificial Intelligence, not merely a consumer of frontier technologies.

  • Strengthens credibility of India’s public innovation infrastructure.
  • Showcases synergy between government incubation platforms and private AI startups.
  • Reinforces AI for social good and mission-led governance.
  • Supports India’s emergence as a deep-tech and AI innovation hub.

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)

About

  • Launched in 2016 by NITI Aayog.
  • Flagship initiative of the Government of India to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.
  • Builds a problem-solving mindset among students and supports startup ecosystems.

Key Programs under AIM

Program

Target Group

Objective

Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs)

School students (Classes 6–12)

Foster innovation using tools like robotics, 3D printing, electronics

Atal Incubation Centres (AICs)

Startups & entrepreneurs

Provide incubation, mentorship, funding, infrastructure

Atal Community Innovation Centres (ACICs)

Underserved regions

Promote innovation in Tier 2/3 cities, tribal & remote areas

Atal New India Challenges (ANIC)

Technology innovators

Support innovations addressing national priority challenges

Mentor India

Entrepreneurs & innovators

Network of 6,200 mentors guiding startups