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 |