Shillong, Mar 1: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has launched the Startup Maha Rathi challenge, a flagship initiative aimed at empowering Indian startups with funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance.

This challenge is part of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh and aligns with India’s vision of becoming a developed economy (Viksit Bharat) by 2047.

The key highlights of this challenge are – access to up to Rs. 30 crore fund, guidance from industry experts, connection with global investors, and recognition for innovative startups from emerging states and union territories.

Some of the key sectors include AI & DeepTech, BioTech & Healthtech, Gaming & Sports, and Fintech.

The application was launched on February 26, 2025, and the last date is March 7, 2025, and the virtual presentation is from March 15-25, 2025 and the live pitching finale will be from April 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Meanwhile, awards of Rs. 1 lakh for each will be given to startups shortlisted for the grand jury round, Rs. 10 lakh for the top two startups from each sector, Rs. 5 lahks for the next five startups, and Rs. 3 lahks for the next five startups in each track.

This initiative has received support from industry leaders, including Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, Secretary of DPIIT Amardeep Singh Bhatia, and Founding Partner of Avaana Capital Anjali Bansal.