Karnataka: Six startups to partner with rural development department to tackle water scarcity, sanitation issues

Six startups emerged as winners at the Karnataka Rural Water and Sanitation Sustainability Summit and received Rs 25 lakh each in funding to implement pilot projects with the RDPR.

The Karnataka government will collaborate with six startups to address water scarcity and sanitation challenges.

The startups — Navmarg Research and Innovation, Biome Environment Trust, REVY Environment Solutions, Oceo Water Pvt Ltd, Dime Klear Pvt Ltd, and Krishi Hrudya Pvt Ltd — emerged as winners at the Karnataka Rural Water and Sanitation Sustainability Summit, and received Rs 25 lakh each in funding to implement pilot projects with the RDPR.

Speaking at the summit on October 29, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) and IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge emphasised the state’s commitment to water security. “Of the 119 applications, 27 promising startups were shortlisted, and today, six of them received a grant of Rs 25 lakh each. While it may not be a large amount, it’s a stepping stone for these innovators to reach the next level. I invite any winners or finalists to pilot their solutions with the RDPR department if they address genuine issues.”

He said the summit brought a unique convergence of rural development and technology sectors for an impactful outcome.

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“It’s crucial for governments to leverage existing technologies for water management, conservation, and potability,” Kharge added, noting that India faces high water stress, as highlighted in NITI Aayog’s 2018 report. “Balancing progress in sectors like data centers and AI with water conservation is challenging. Through policy, technology, and behavior change, we must work towards water security.”

Revenue Minister Krishna Byregowda, present at the summit’s inaugural session, said: “This summit demonstrates our commitment to innovative solutions for rural water scarcity and sanitation. Together with experts and local innovators, we aim to create strategies that improve health, empower villages, and enhance environmental resilience.”

Also, read: Karnataka govt turns to startups for sustainable water solutions, urban challenges