India's startup ecosystem has been rapidly evolving, with a surge of innovative companies emerging across various sectors. Among these, a remarkable line of startups has been making waves in the realm of deep tech – a domain that encompasses cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), robotics, and other advanced computational techniques. These deep tech startups are not only pushing the boundaries of what's possible but also addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by industries and society at large.
In this article, we will explore some of the top deep tech startups in India, delving into their groundbreaking innovations, unique approaches, and the potential impact they hold on the future.
- Cogknit Semantics: Language is a powerful tool, and this startup is harnessing its potential with AI. Cogknit Semantics Pvt. Ltd. is an ISO-certified innovative product firm situated in Bangalore. It uses machine learning for text, speech, and computer vision. Nimit is a personalised learning platform developed by Cogknit that uses data science and machine learning algorithms to identify users' learning patterns and user activity in order to identify user context and deliver content based on context, allowing them to receive an extended blended learning experience.
- Cognitifai: Cognitifai is a startup founded by Kanishka Nithin that helps retrieve the exact information using cameras by using a video intelligence platform that uses computer vision to index physical world phenomena. They have specialised in urban monitoring such as surveillance, healthcare, and hyper-local intelligence discovery for smart cities and retail enterprises. It is one of the best of India’s unsung Deep-tech startups making a breakthrough.
- Streamoid Technologies: Nvidia, Manthani, Rajesh Kumar, and Haricharan Lakshman launched Streamoid, an AI (Artificial Intelligence Stylist), in 2014. Streamoid Technologies employs its picture recognition capabilities to extract product and style information from images, which it then analyses through its AI engine to provide fashionable, relevant, and personalised fashion purchasing results.
- VisionBot: The company is focusing on Neural Networks and Deep Learning technologies as a result of earlier computer vision project and development work. Today's society creates and consumes video material around the clock. Video content analysis can provide vital insights that can help boost operational efficiencies and hence Enterprise ROI. It is primarily a cloud-based and optionally on-premise computer vision platform that employs Deep Learning to extract objective data from subjective images, enabling near-real-time video monitoring and analysis 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Agara: Agara represents how business-to-consumer communication will be conducted in the future. Agara uses powerful voice AI to process customer assistance calls in real time. Agara may handle calls entirely on its own or send live suggestions to a human agent to quickly and successfully resolve the issue. Agara removes all areas of friction in support calls. Businesses may significantly improve their customer service experience by eliminating hold times, increasing the first-call resolution rate, and shortening call durations. This improved experience is on top of cost savings and operational efficiencies of more than 50%. Agara is making ubiquitous, enjoyable, and meaningful machine-led speech conversations available to anybody, leveraging the latest breakthroughs in Deep Learning. It believes that voice interactions should be seamless, barrier-free, and frustration-free.
- Aigroedge: Another player in the agritech space, Aigroedge Technologies, combines AI and deep learning to empower farmers. AIGROEDGE Technologies is a deep tech firm created by engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs who are developing cutting-edge IoT sensors and AI-powered digital solutions for the specialised agriculture industry. There are numerous market applications for AIGROEDGE's first product, 'KRAASHAK,' an edge IoT sensory device powered by AI for physical quality assessment, disease detection, and prediction of parameters affecting plant growth using a proprietary expert system to improve yielding (e.g., herbs and decorative flowers).
- Astrome: Astrome, founded in 2015 by Dr. Neha Satak and Dr. Prasad H L Bhat, offers Gigabit speed telecommunication solutions for telecom providers, enterprises, and defence sectors. Their focus on accelerating 5G deployment in suburban areas and broadband in rural regions is facilitated by their innovative telecom radios and satellite communication products. With products like GigaMesh enabling wireless connectivity for various applications, Astrome has secured contracts with Indian Defence forces and international telecom operators. Their pioneering work in E-band technology positions them as a key player in advancing next-generation networks with products like GigaMesh-Next and the upcoming GigaSat terminal.
- Instoried: Instoried, with offices in California and Bengaluru, recently signed a contract with GEM International Yield, an alternative investment firm based in Paris, New York, and, yes, the Bahamas. Following the agreement, GEM gave the firm with Share Subscription Facilities of up to $200 million, which can be used for 36 months after becoming public.
- DataCrux: DataCrux is a company that specialises in high-end analytic services and solutions. Their Data Scientists have led teams that have produced cutting-edge innovation and commercial initiatives for Fortune 500 businesses in the areas of eCommerce, travel, financial services, and health care. Their solutions were named among the top ten globally by kaggle.com, beating out many well-known analytics providers. Its high-impact, low-risk consulting model entails identifying high-value use cases, establishing an extensive data analytics ecosystem, establishing a predictive model validation framework, and developing a predictive model that is among the best using our proven proprietary algorithms and ensembling techniques.
- insideFPV: insideFPV goes beyond the realm of recreational drones. They cater to a diverse range of users, from hobbyists and content creators to agricultural specialists and even the defence sector. insideFPV not only offers groundbreaking technology for remote piloting of drones but also provides FPV (First Person View) drones. InsideFPV's latest innovation is a game-changer. They've developed a groundbreaking technology that allows users to pilot drones remotely, from anywhere on the globe. This marks a significant milestone for India's deep tech industry, putting them at the forefront of drone control solutions. Extensive testing has proven the effectiveness of insideFPV's remote piloting technology. Users in locations like the Netherlands and Oman successfully operating drones in India, demonstrating the remarkable range and reliability of the system. This opens doors for a future where geographical limitations no longer hinder drone operation. InsideFPV stands out not just for its advanced technology but also for its commitment to Make in India drones as well as making drones affordable to all. Their drones come in various models, from beginner-friendly options like the BIR series to the feature-packed Elevate V1, catering to a range of budgets and skill levels.
The above startups become an evidence to the increasing trend of the deeptech industry in India. The startup ecosystem has been experiencing remarkable growth and innovation, with the DeepTech sector witnessing a surge in funding and investor interest. The funding landscape has been promising, with substantial investments in areas like artificial intelligence, space tech, EVs, and robotics. Despite potential short-term funding challenges, deep tech companies are poised for long-term success due to their focus on fundamental innovation and the emergence of unicorns in the sector. The next few years are expected to see the rise of more unicorns in deep tech, driven by advancements in sectors like climate tech, space, and electric vehicles. The Indian startup landscape, particularly in deep tech, is on a trajectory of significant expansion and impact, with a focus on scalable, innovative, and transformational solutions that address critical societal and industrial challenges. The ecosystem's growth is fueled by factors like increased internet penetration, digitization, and a favourable regulatory environment, creating a conducive atmosphere for entrepreneurial growth and technological advancement. As India solidifies its position as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, the deep tech sector stands out as a key driver of economic development, job creation, and technological advancement, shaping the future of India's startup landscape and contributing to the country's journey towards becoming a leader in cutting-edge technologies on the global stage.
FAQs
- What is the significance of deep tech startups in India's startup ecosystem?
Deep tech startups in India play a crucial role in driving innovation and addressing pressing challenges across various industries by leveraging cutting-edge technologies like AI, ML, and robotics.
- What are some notable deep tech startups in India?
Some of the top deep tech startups in India highlighted in the article include Cogknit Semantics, Cognitifai, Streamoid Technologies, VisionBot, Agara, Aigroedge Technologies, Astrome, Instoried, DataCrux, and insideFPV.
- How are deep tech startups revolutionising industries like agriculture and telecommunications?
Deep tech startups like insideFPV and Aigroedge Technologies are empowering farmers with drones, AI and IoT solutions. Also, various schemes like NaMo Drone Didi aims to empower rural women by training them to become drone pilots for agricultural purposes, here easy to use drones like Krishi by insideFPV become gamechanger, promoting such initiatives. While companies like Astrome are accelerating 5G deployment and broadband connectivity with innovative telecom solutions.
