A new national repository mapping over 110 artificial intelligence (AI) startups and non-profit organisations delivering population-scale social and economic impact across India was released at the India AI Impact Summit 2026.
Titled India’s AI Impact Startups, the repository has been published by IndiaAI in collaboration with Kalpa Impact. It documents AI-driven initiatives spanning sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, climate action, financial inclusion, urban mobility, and public service delivery.
The repository is the first structured mapping of India’s AI-for-impact ecosystem and highlights how Indian founders are building solutions that are locally designed and globally relevant. The analysis indicates a maturing ecosystem, with voice-based AI systems and vernacular interfaces emerging as key tools for reaching underserved communities. It also notes a growing focus on Made-in-India foundation models and scalable deployment-ready solutions.
The publication is intended to serve as a reference for policymakers, investors, and development institutions seeking integration-ready AI capabilities, scalable ventures, and replicable models from the Global South.
Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Director General of NIC, and CEO of the IndiaAI Mission, said the repository provides a structured overview of initiatives aligned with public objectives. He noted that it highlights AI capabilities ready for integration with India’s digital public infrastructure while offering industry and investors insight into ventures with long-term scalability and technical maturity.
Mohammed Y. Safirulla K, IAS, IndiaAI Mission, said the repository captures a phase where Indian AI startups are moving from pilot projects to deployed solutions serving millions of users. He added that the IndiaAI Mission remains committed to strengthening this ecosystem and supporting impact-driven innovation.
Anshul Singhal, General Manager (Startups), MeitY, highlighted the diversity of applications covered in the repository, ranging from courtroom transcription and rural health screening to advisory services for smallholder farmers. He said Indian startups are increasingly building digital infrastructure aimed at inclusion.
Sushant Kumar, Founder and CEO of Kalpa Impact, said the study shows that many Indian AI startups are developing what he described as “super-utility” solutions—AI systems designed for real-world human needs and public service challenges. He noted that several growth-stage companies have already expanded internationally, positioning India as an emerging AI export hub for developing economies.
The repository was researched and compiled by the Kalpa Impact team and is available in the public domain.
