In this exclusive interaction with StartupTalky, Mohit Bansal, Founder and CEO of GMI Infra, shares his vision for transforming India’s infrastructure landscape. He discusses bridging gaps in integrated, future-ready urban and industrial ecosystems, with a portfolio spanning hundreds of acres across Northern India, including commercial, residential, and logistics projects. Bansal highlights sustainable design, smart governance through MindSci AI, and his approach to innovation across diverse sectors like real estate, AI, and lifestyle brands. He also reflects on investment strategies, CSR initiatives in education, and the partnerships needed to build climate-friendly, future-ready cities.
StartupTalky: What gap in India’s infrastructure sector did you aim to address when starting GMI Infra, and what is the current size of your project portfolio in terms of land area or value?
Mr. Bansal: When I started GMI Infra, the infrastructure sector lacked integrated, future-ready ecosystems that balanced industrial scale with urban sustainability. My goal was to go beyond standalone structures — to create smart, scalable environments for businesses and communities. Today, GMI Infra’s portfolio spans hundreds of acres across Northern India, including approximately 90 acres at GMI Business Park, which comprises commercial, residential, and industrial projects, as well as an approximately 200-acre free trade zone and logistics park currently under development in Uttar Pradesh, positioning us at the forefront of industrial, commercial, and residential development.
StartupTalky: How do you plan large-scale developments like GMI Business Park and IT District, especially when balancing scale, sustainability, and long-term returns?
Mr. Bansal: Each development begins with a strong focus on green architecture, EV-readiness, and long-term adaptability. We integrate energy-efficient facades, solar infrastructure, and water conservation systems aligned with LEED and GRIHA standards. These projects are master-planned to scale with tech and talent demand while also preserving liveability, resulting in long-term value for investors and communities alike.
StartupTalky: You have recently signed an MoU with the UP Government. What are the expected investments, job opportunities, or trade benefits from the upcoming Free Trade Zones and logistics parks?
Mr. Bansal: The MoU with the UP Government marks a transformative phase for GMI Infra. We are investing in approximately 200-acre logistics park and free trade zones aimed at boosting international trade, manufacturing, and FDI. These zones are expected to generate thousands of jobs, catalyze export-led growth, and create regional supply chain efficiencies that align with India’s $5-trillion economy vision.
StartupTalky: What real-world problems is MindSci AI helping solve today in city planning or governance, and how is it being used on the ground?
Mr. Bansal: MindSci AI bridges data and decision-making by offering AI-powered tools for city planning, smart governance, and infrastructure foresight. We’ve developed urban data models for real-time civic monitoring, predictive analytics for infrastructure planning, and tools to guide public policy with evidence. These are already being piloted in partnerships with academic institutions and planning bodies.
StartupTalky: How do you think AI and data tools should be used responsibly in Indian policymaking, and what checks are needed to ensure ethical use?
Mr. Bansal: AI in policymaking must be transparent, inclusive, and accountable. Responsible use means deploying bias-tested models, ensuring data privacy, and enabling third-party audits. I advocate for a national framework that brings together technologists, legal experts, and civil society to guide ethical AI development, especially in areas like public surveillance, welfare delivery, and urban governance.
StartupTalky: Whispering Homes has seen 140% yearly growth. What factors have driven this success, and how are you planning to scale further?
Mr. Bansal: Our growth is fueled by digital-first scalability, curated design, and customer-centric innovation. From partnering with luxury hotels like Taj and Hyatt to tapping into global aesthetics, we’ve created a brand that resonates. Looking ahead, we’re scaling through private-label partnerships, immersive retail experiences, and international expansion in key lifestyle markets.
StartupTalky: You work across very different sectors—from real estate to AI to décor. How do you stay innovative and lead teams across such varied industries?
Mr. Bansal: I view innovation as sector-agnostic; it’s about culture, not just technology. I stay grounded in first-principle thinking, build complementary leadership teams, and foster cross-industry learning. My ventures may differ, but they’re united by a core ethos: to improve how people live, work, and connect with their environments.
StartupTalky: As an investor, what key signs do you look for in a startup or founder before investing, and how involved are you after the investment?
Mr. Bansal: I look for clarity of problem-solving, founder grit, and scalability in emerging sectors like AI, design, and sustainability. Post-investment, I take an active role, offering strategic mentorship, access to networks, and business model refinement. I believe in being a partner, not just a cheque.
StartupTalky: Among your CSR efforts, which project, whether in education, the environment, or sports, has made the most impact in your view?
Mr. Bansal: While all initiatives are close to my heart, the educational support programs through GMI Charitable Trust stand out. We’ve reached over 1,200 underprivileged children with scholarships, school supplies, and mid-day meals, creating a ripple effect of opportunity in underserved communities.
StartupTalky: India is pushing towards smart, climate-friendly cities. What changes or partnerships do you think are needed to build future-ready urban infrastructure?
Mr. Bansal: Smart cities need cross-sector partnerships between government, private developers, tech firms, and local communities. Policy alignment, data-sharing frameworks, and incentive structures for green building adoption are key. We must prioritize inclusive master plans that blend digital connectivity with environmental resilience to truly future-proof urban India.
Sunita Singh
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