StartupTalky

Tag: 📝Interviews

  • Vserve’s Digital Revolution: Balakrishnan on Transforming eCommerce and Shaping the Future

    In a recent interview with StartupTalky, Mr. Siva Balakrishnan, the founder and CEO of Vserve, talks about how the company has grown and its impact on the eCommerce world. Vserve started with the goal of helping businesses navigate the fast-changing digital market. Balakrishnan explains how Vserve uses advanced technology to make eCommerce solutions that are both effective and cost-saving. He also shares how Vserve’s focus on customer support and global expansion has made it a key player in the industry. Learn how Vserve is leading the way in eCommerce and preparing for future trends.

    StartupTalky: What inspired you to found Vserve, and what is your vision for the company?

    Mr. Balakrishnan: Vserve was founded with the sincere goal of bridging the divide between companies and the quickly changing digital landscape. I recognised a chance to provide businesses, no matter how big or little, with the knowledge and
    resources they need to succeed in the cutthroat world of online shopping. Always, my goal has been to build Vserve into a business that truly partners with our clients’ success, going beyond simple service provision. Our primary objective is to offer scalable, customized solutions that facilitate business growth while significantly reducing running costs. Our objective is to continue being the preferred partner for companies wishing to enhance their eCommerce operations by combining modern technology with our comprehensive industry expertise. Vserve’s mission is to assist our clients in realizing their dreams and experiencing success, not only to supply business solutions.

    StartupTalky: How has Vserve’s approach to eCommerce services evolved since its inception?

    Mr. Balakrishnan: Vserve’s eCommerce service strategy has continuously changed since its founding to meet the constantly shifting needs of the world market. What was once a little business has grown into a major force in the world. Vserve has always placed a high priority on providing individualized, reasonably priced solutions that provide noticeable outcomes.

    Along with expansion, Vserve’s path is distinguished by a strong dedication to comprehending the particular difficulties that each of its clients faces. To guarantee that every customer receives the best care possible, the company has customized all of its services, including digital marketing, 24/7 customer support, and product data management. Because of its constant commitment to quality, Vserve has been able to assist customers in cutting their operating expenses by as much as 60%, enhancing its standing as a reliable partner for companies of all kinds. Vserve is proud to enable its customers to reach their eCommerce objectives.

    StartupTalky: Can you elaborate on the key technologies and tools Vserve uses to deliver its eCommerce and retail solutions?

    Mr. Balakrishnana: At Vserve, we’re passionate about empowering our retail and eCommerce businesses by utilizing cutting-edge technologies. Because machine learning and artificial intelligence are fundamental to all we do, they form the foundation of our strategy. These technologies enable us to precisely manage product data, automate difficult tasks, and offer insightful forecasts that help us make more informed business decisions. We have created a solid platform for administering eMarketplaces that is both strong and adaptable enough to meet the specific requirements of every customer. We make sure that our solutions expand along with the businesses of our clients since we understand how important scalability is in the quick-paced world of eCommerce.

    We also offer scalable, flexible, and safe solutions since we recognize the need for a trustworthy infrastructure. We ensure that our clients receive the support they need as their businesses expand by taking this action. Regarding digital marketing, we take pride in utilizing products like MerchMetric, which we created especially to assist eCommerce companies in making the most out of their product data. We can increase consumer engagement and conversion rates by utilizing data-driven techniques. Furthermore, because we think that excellent customer service is equally essential as cutting-edge technology, we have chatbots and sophisticated CRM systems running 24/7 support that enable us to respond to any request promptly and individually.

    The extensive understanding of the eCommerce industry that our staff possesses, however, is what is truly unique. As partners, we are dedicated to helping our clients succeed and flourish in the cutthroat market of today. At Vserve, we’re here to help your company at every stage of the eMarketplace journey.

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    StartupTalky: How does Vserve’s customized approach contribute to a 60% reduction in bottom-line costs for your clients?

    Mr. Balakrishnana: A key component of Vserve’s tailored strategy is helping its clients reduce their bottom-line expenses by 60%. Vserve guarantees resource efficiency and reduces unnecessary costs by tailoring solutions to each company’s unique requirements. The business starts by thoroughly analyzing the particular needs and difficulties of each client. Because of this, Vserve is able to create solutions that maximize operations, be it through more effective customer support
    systems, focused digital marketing, or simplified product data administration.

    An important part of this process is automation. Vserve automates repetitive
    activities, minimizing errors and manual effort by utilizing machine learning
    algorithms and AI-driven technologies. This reduces staff costs while
    simultaneously accelerating procedures. To further improve cost-effectiveness,
    Vserve’s proficiency in managing e-marketplaces guarantees that customers
    obtain optimal visibility and sales while minimizing expenditure. This well-
    thought-out, personalized strategy directly lowers costs significantly, freeing up
    clients to spend on expansion and innovation.

    StartupTalky: What are the primary challenges in providing back-end eCommerce services, and how does Vserve address them?

    Mr. Balakrishnan: Maintaining data accuracy, controlling large transaction volumes, guaranteeing smooth platform integration, and providing constant customer support across time zones are just a few of the difficulties associated with providing back-end eCommerce services. Managing the enormous and constantly evolving product data is one of the main issues; accurate listings need to be ensured by meticulous structure, frequent updates, and error-free management.
    Furthermore, it’s critical to handle high transaction volumes without sacrificing
    speed or dependability, particularly during the busiest shopping seasons. A further difficulty is integrating different third-party systems and eCommerce platforms, which frequently have different requirements and protocols and complicate otherwise simple tasks.

    To handle these difficulties, Vserve uses cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to automate data administration, guaranteeing precision and effectiveness. Even during busy times, the company’s scalable infrastructure can easily handle large quantities of transactions. The proficiency of Vserve in multi-platform integration guarantees seamless functioning across several systems. Vserve uses a specialized workforce and cutting-edge CRM solutions for customer support, guaranteeing timely and reliable assistance. By taking a complete strategy, Vserve can meet the expectations of a dynamic market by providing dependable and affordable back-end eCommerce services.

    StartupTalky: How does Vserve ensure high-quality service delivery in its global operations?

    Mr. Balakrishnan: Through a combination of strict procedures, cutting-edge technology, and a client-centric mindset, Vserve guarantees high-quality service delivery throughout its global operations. In order to ensure that all operations—whether they are in New York, Coimbatore, or the Philippines—adhere to the same exacting requirements for quality, the corporation begins by establishing unambiguous and consistent standards for each of its international teams. Vserve maintains scalability, precision, and efficiency in its services by utilizing cutting-edge technology like product data management, Real-time tracking, and quality checks made possible by these technologies, which enable Vserve to quickly detect and resolve possible problems.

    Furthermore, Vserve allocates substantial resources towards the training of its workforce, ensuring that every team member possesses the most recent knowledge and abilities required to deliver outstanding customer support. Frequent feedback loops and performance reviews show the company’s commitment to ongoing improvement since they help to improve service standards and streamline procedures. In order to sustain tight working relationships with customers, Vserve encourages open lines of communication while providing individualized support and frequent updates.

    StartupTalky: What strategies are in place for Vserve’s expansion into new markets or regions?

    Mr. Balakrishnan: Vserve has created a strategic plan for entering new markets and geographical areas that is centered on comprehending local requirements, forming reliable alliances, and utilizing its extensive international experience. To fully grasp the unique needs, subtle cultural differences, and legal requirements of a fresh market, Vserve carries out extensive market research before entry. This enables the business to customize its offerings to satisfy regional demands and
    guarantee adherence to all applicable rules and laws. Vserve places a high priority on forming strategic alliances with nearby companies and tech suppliers to establish a significant presence. Through these alliances, Vserve can deliver services that are competitive and relevant while integrating smoothly into the
    new market.

    Vserve also invests in local talent by employing qualified experts who are aware of the particular business environment in the area. This strategy not only improves Vserve’s operations but also fosters credibility and confidence among local clients. Vserve also makes use of its technological prowess and worldwide infrastructure to provide scalable solutions that are adaptable to various geographical contexts. Vserve guarantees the efficacy and sustainability of its market expansion by upholding a client-centric and adaptable approach, which permits the company to expand while upholding the superior level of service that customers have come to expect.

    StartupTalky: Can you discuss the impact of Vserve’s 24/7 customer support and digital marketing services on your client relationships?

    Mr. Balakrishnan: Strong client relationships are the foundation of Vserve’s success, which is mostly attributable to the company’s round-the-clock customer service and digital marketing offerings. We recognize the value of dependable support and work to make sure that, at all times and locations, our clients’ clients’ consumers always receive timely, individualized assistance. This commitment increases client happiness, encourages repeat business, and fortifies their faith in us.

    By elevating our client’s online visibility and engagement through data-driven
    strategies and cutting-edge solutions, our digital marketing solutions further
    strengthen this trust. We customize our approach to each client’s distinct brand
    so that they feel appreciated and understood. To us, going above and beyond
    simply rendering services means becoming a true collaborator in our client’s success. We have become known as a trustworthy and reliable ally in the
    competitive world of eCommerce as a result of our strong dedication.

    StartupTalky: How does Vserve customize its solutions to meet the needs of Fortune 500 companies and other large-scale clients?

    Mr. Balakrishnan: Vserve takes great care and attention to detail when customizing its solutions for Fortune 500 businesses and other large-scale clients. To create custom solutions that support Vserve’s strategic goals, a thorough examination of each client’s needs, company objectives, and market obstacles is the first step in the process. With cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, Vserve prioritizes scalability and flexibility for these clients in order to effectively manage massive amounts of data and transactions. In order to manage heavy traffic and guarantee dependability, the business also uses a strong, flexible infrastructure.

    As part of Vserve’s strategy, specialized account management teams collaborate closely with customers to provide tailored assistance and strategic insights as their needs change. Vserve also offers advanced product data management and tailored digital marketing tactics to increase exposure and spur growth. Vserve creates lasting relationships and produces significant outcomes by fusing these components with a resolute dedication to client happiness.

    Mr. Balakrishnan: We constantly keep an eye on the future to make sure we’re prepared for changes in retail and eCommerce. We anticipate some really interesting developments, and we’re actively getting ready to confront them head-on. Predictive insights and tailored shopping experiences will be made possible by
    AI and machine learning, which is one of the largest changes we see coming. We’re making significant investments in these technologies to enable us to provide our clients with superior inventory control, more insightful advice, and improved customer support.

    We’re also keeping an eye on how multichannel buying is expanding. Our primary goal is to develop integrated solutions that ensure a smooth and consistent shopping experience across all touchpoints since customers have come to anticipate a more seamless online or in-store experience. We are also quite excited about the subject of sustainability. As the market for morally and ecologically conscious companies continues to expand, we’re dedicated to implementing eco-friendly methods into our business operations and services.

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  • Innovating Packaging: Seema Bansal’s Vision for a Sustainable Future at DCG Tech Limited

    In an insightful interview with StartupTalky, Seema Bansal, the visionary Director of DCG Tech Limited, shares her journey and the driving forces behind the company’s success. Founded in 2006, DCG Tech Limited has emerged as a leader in sustainable and innovative packaging solutions. Seema reveals how her passion for innovation and commitment to sustainability have shaped the company’s progress. From utilizing eco-friendly practices to expanding into global markets, Seema’s strategic vision and leadership have positioned DCG Tech Limited as a key player in the packaging industry. Dive into the conversation to explore the milestones, strategies, and plans that define DCG Tech Limited’s remarkable journey.

    StartupTalky: What motivated you to start DCG Tech Limited, and what is your vision for the company?

    Ms. Seema: Starting DCG Tech Limited was driven by my passion for innovation and a desire to address the growing need for sustainable and efficient packaging solutions in India. I saw a significant gap in the market where businesses needed help finding packaging that was both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. This inspired me to create a platform that not only meets these needs but also pushes the boundaries of what packaging can achieve through technology, design, and sustainability.

    My vision for DCG Tech Limited is to be at the forefront of the packaging industry by continually innovating and developing solutions that help businesses reduce waste, lower costs, and enhance the overall consumer experience. I want us to lead the way in sustainability, ensuring our products contribute positively to the environment while setting a high standard for quality and service in the industry. We aim to expand our reach globally, leveraging our data-driven approach and expertise to deliver unparalleled packaging solutions to clients worldwide. Ultimately, I see DCG Tech Limited as a catalyst for change, driving the industry toward a more sustainable and efficient future.

    StartupTalky: How has DCG Tech Limited evolved since its founding in 2006, and what are the key milestones in its journey?

    Ms. Seema: Since its inception in 2006, DCG Tech Limited has evolved into a leading packaging solutions provider, marked by several key milestones that define our growth and success. Early on, we achieved ISO 9001:2018 certification, which underscored our commitment to quality management and delivering superior products and services to our customers. This certification has been a cornerstone, helping us build trust and reliability with over 50,000 clients.

    A major milestone was the opening of our office in the UAE, which marked our expansion into the global market. This step allowed us to better serve our international clients, tap into new opportunities, and strengthen our presence in the Middle East and beyond.

    Another pivotal moment was the establishment of the DCG Tech Ennovation Centre, our dedicated innovation hub focused on research, development, and sustainable packaging solutions. This center has enabled us to push the boundaries of packaging technology, continuously developing products that meet evolving market demands while promoting sustainability.

    These milestones reflect our strategic growth, our commitment to quality and innovation, and our vision to become a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions.

    StartupTalky: DCG Tech Limited has become a leading packaging solutions supplier. What strategies have been crucial in achieving this status?

    Ms. Seema: DCG Tech Limited’s rise to prominence as a leading packaging solutions supplier has been driven by several crucial strategies. Firstly, our commitment to innovation has been fundamental. By establishing the DCG Tech Ennovation Centre, we have fostered a culture of continuous improvement and research, enabling us to develop cutting-edge, sustainable packaging solutions that meet evolving market demands.

    Secondly, our focus on quality has been unwavering. Achieving and maintaining ISO 9001:2018 certification has reinforced our dedication to delivering high-quality products and services, ensuring that we consistently meet and exceed customer expectations.

    Thirdly, strategic global expansion has played a key role. Opening our office in the UAE allowed us to tap into new markets, broaden our reach, and better serve international clients, thus strengthening our global presence.

    Lastly, we have prioritized customer-centricity, tailoring our solutions to address the specific needs of our clients and building strong, long-term relationships. These strategies—innovation, quality, global expansion, and customer focus—have been essential in establishing DCG Tech Limited as a leader in the packaging industry.

    StartupTalky: Can you describe technology’s role in optimizing DCG Tech Limited’s packaging solutions?

    Ms. Seema: Technology plays a pivotal role in optimizing DCG Tech Limited’s packaging solutions, driving both efficiency and innovation. At the heart of our approach is the DCG Tech Ennovation Centre, where we harness advanced technologies to develop cutting-edge packaging solutions. This includes the use of smart manufacturing techniques, such as automated production lines and real-time quality monitoring, which enhance precision and reduce waste.

    We also leverage data analytics to gain insights into market trends and customer preferences. This data-driven approach allows us to tailor our solutions to meet specific needs, optimize supply chains, and improve overall performance. For instance, our use of predictive analytics helps us anticipate demand and manage inventory more effectively, reducing lead times and costs.

    Sustainability is another key focus, where technology enables us to explore and implement eco-friendly materials and processes. Innovations in biodegradable and recyclable materials, along with energy-efficient production methods, support our commitment to reducing environmental impact.

    Overall, technology is integral to our strategy, driving continuous improvement, enhancing product quality, and supporting our commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction.

    StartupTalky: What are the main challenges you’ve faced in growing DCG Tech Limited, and how have you overcome them?

    Ms. Seema: Growing DCG Tech Limited has presented several challenges, which we have addressed through strategic and practical solutions. One significant challenge was scaling our operations while maintaining high standards of quality and customer service. To overcome this, we implemented robust processes and invested in technology that enhances efficiency and ensures consistency
    across all our operations.

    Entering new markets, including international expansion, posed its own set of difficulties. We navigated these by building a skilled team that understands local market dynamics and regulations, enabling us to adapt our approach to different regions effectively.

    Another challenge was integrating sustainability into our packaging solutions without increasing costs or compromising on performance. We tackled this by focusing on innovation and collaborating with partners to develop and implement eco-friendly materials and practices.

    By proactively addressing these challenges with targeted strategies, we have successfully driven our growth and solidified our position as a leader in the packaging industry.

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    StartupTalky: How does DCG Tech Limited ensure that its packaging solutions meet the diverse needs of its over 50,000 customers?

    Ms. Seema: At DCG Tech Limited, meeting the diverse needs of our over 50,000 customers is a top priority. We achieve this through a combination of customized solutions, customer feedback, and continuous innovation.

    Firstly, we prioritize understanding the specific requirements of each client. Our team works closely with customers to develop tailored packaging solutions that address their unique needs, whether it’s for different industries, product types, or environmental considerations.

    We also actively seek and incorporate customer feedback. By maintaining open lines of communication, we gather insights into our clients’ evolving needs and preferences, allowing us to make informed adjustments and improvements to our offerings.

    Continuous innovation is another key factor. We invest in research and development to stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements. This enables us to offer state-of-the-art solutions that not only meet current needs but also anticipate future demands.

    Through these practices—customization, feedback integration, and innovation—we ensure that our packaging solutions remain relevant and effective for our diverse customer base.

    StartupTalky: What steps is DCG Tech Limited taking to incorporate sustainability into its packaging solutions?

    Ms. Seema: At DCG Tech Limited, incorporating sustainability into our packaging solutions revolves around the 2R approach: Reduce and Reuse. This philosophy guides us in developing packaging that minimizes environmental impact while maximizing functionality and value for our customers.

    • Reduce: We focus on reducing waste and resource consumption at every stage of our packaging process. This includes optimizing packaging design to use fewer materials without sacrificing strength or quality. By using lightweight, durable materials and smart engineering, we lower both our carbon footprint and that of our customers. Additionally, we are committed to reducing energy use and emissions in our production processes, further supporting a sustainable approach.
    • Reuse: Our packaging solutions are designed with reusability in mind. We encourage customers to choose packaging that can be repurposed or used multiple times. Whether through innovative design that facilitates easy reuse or through durable materials that extend the life cycle of the packaging, we aim to help our clients move away from single-use products.

    By embedding the principles of Reduce and Reuse into our practices, DCG Tech Limited is actively contributing to a more sustainable packaging industry and encouraging a shift towards a circular economy.

    StartupTalky: What are your future plans for expanding DCG Tech Limited’s product offerings and market reach?

    Ms. Seema: DCG Tech Limited is poised for significant growth by expanding both our product offerings and market reach. Looking ahead, we plan to introduce a wider range of innovative, sustainable packaging solutions that cater to diverse and emerging industry needs. This includes advanced materials that are eco-friendly and provide enhanced performance and versatility for various sectors. We are also venturing into new areas like smart packaging, which integrates technology for improved tracking, shelf-life management, and customer engagement.

    A key focus area is expanding our festive packaging line, which has seen increasing demand. We aim to offer unique, customizable packaging options that cater to different cultural and seasonal celebrations. These festive packaging solutions will combine aesthetics with sustainability, providing our clients with innovative ways to enhance their brand presence during special occasions.

    On the market expansion front, we are focused on strengthening our presence in existing regions while exploring new international opportunities. By building strategic partnerships and investing in local expertise, we can better understand regional needs and deliver targeted solutions. Additionally, enhancing our digital and eCommerce platforms will help us reach a broader audience and offer our packaging solutions globally. Our future plans revolve around leading the industry with sustainable, innovative packaging that meets the evolving needs of a global market.

    StartupTalky: How does DCG Tech Limited plan to leverage its success to explore new business opportunities or markets?

    Ms. Seema: Leveraging our success, we plan to explore new business opportunities and markets by focusing on innovation, strategic partnerships, and global expansion. Building on our reputation as a leader in sustainable and high-quality solutions, we aim to diversify into related areas where we can apply our expertise and offer value to new sectors.

    A key strategy is to expand our portfolio to include smart solutions that integrate technology for enhanced product tracking, safety, and consumer engagement. This approach allows us to tap into high-growth sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and eCommerce, where such innovations are increasingly sought after.

    We are also looking to enter new geographical markets, especially in emerging economies that present significant growth opportunities. To achieve this, we plan to build strategic partnerships and establish local teams to understand and navigate these markets effectively.

    Additionally, we see potential in extending our expertise to adjacent industries, such as logistics and supply chain management, where our solutions can add considerable value. By leveraging our strengths, forming strategic alliances, and continuously innovating, we aim to explore and capitalize on new opportunities that align with our vision of growth and sustainability.

    StartupTalky: What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs in the packaging and eCommerce sectors?

    Ms. Seema: For aspiring entrepreneurs in the packaging and eCommerce sectors, my advice would be to stay customer-focused and adaptable. Understanding your customers’ needs is crucial. The packaging and eCommerce industries are rapidly evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Start by thoroughly researching your market and identifying gaps where you can offer unique value.

    Innovation should be at the core of your strategy. Whether it’s through sustainable materials, smart packaging, or efficient supply chain solutions, find ways to differentiate yourself and stay ahead of industry trends. Don’t be afraid to experiment and invest in R&D; this will help you develop innovative solutions that cater to emerging demands.

    Building strong relationships is equally important. Collaborate with suppliers, partners, and customers to create a network that supports growth and innovation. A strong network can provide the support, feedback, and opportunities needed to scale your business.

    Finally, stay resilient and adaptable. The journey of entrepreneurship comes with its challenges, but maintaining a clear vision, being open to change, and learning from every experience will help you navigate the complexities of the packaging and eCommerce landscape successfully.

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  • Vikram Singh Meena, Founder and CEO of TechEagle, Discusses How the Company’s Advanced Drones are Revolutionising Logistics

    In this exclusive interview with StartupTalky, we speak with Vikram Singh Meena, Founder and CEO of TechEagle, a pioneering company in drone delivery solutions. With a focus on enhancing logistics through drone technology, TechEagle is enabling faster, more efficient, and cost-effective delivery services, particularly in remote and underserved areas. Vikram discusses the journey behind building TechEagle, the advanced UAV technology driving the company’s operations, and its potential to transform industries such as healthcare, e-commerce, and agriculture through innovative aerial logistics.

    StartupTalky: What inspired you to start TechEagle, and what does the company offer through its drone delivery services?

    Mr. Vikram: The inspiration behind TechEagle is deeply personal. Growing up in the small village of Kishanganj in Rajasthan, I witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of limited access to essential services like healthcare and basic commerce. Losing loved ones due to the unavailability of timely medical care left a profound impact on me. This personal drive to address such challenges led me to explore drone technology during my time at IIT-Kanpur, where we initially developed fixed-wing drones for long-range deliveries.

    When I met Anshu (TechEagle, Co-founder & COO), we shared a vision of solving broader logistical challenges through technology, aiming to revolutionize last-mile logistics and ensure that critical resources reach everyone, everywhere. Our collaboration took a significant leap when we decided to work together on developing solutions that could overcome existing barriers in logistics. As our operations expanded to Lucknow, we encountered the challenge of limited runway access for operating fixed-wing drones. This obstacle led us to develop rotary-wing drones capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), commonly known as quadcopters. This innovation eliminated the need for runways and allowed us to make history in 2018 by delivering the world’s first tea via drone in Lucknow.

    As we gained more experience with rotary-wing drones and received valuable feedback, we recognized their limitations, such as higher power consumption and shorter range. To overcome these challenges and better serve a variety of logistics needs, we developed India’s first hybrid eVTOL drone—a pioneering aircraft that combines the vertical takeoff capabilities of a helicopter with the long-range efficiency of a fixed-wing plane. This unique combination, embodied in our flagship product Vertiplane X3, makes our drones ideal for efficient, long-range deliveries across diverse terrains and environments, both urban and rural, giving us the flexibility to work across the entire spectrum with our clients.

    StartupTalky: With TechEagle’s significant market share, how do you ensure the reliability and safety of your drone operations, especially in e-commerce and defense applications?

    Mr. Vikram: At TechEagle, reliability and safety are the foundation of our operations. We take a holistic approach to drone innovation, overseeing every step from design and development to in-house manufacturing. This end-to-end control ensures that every component of our drones meets the highest standards of quality and safety.

    Our drones are equipped with cutting-edge sensory technology, including proprietary detect-and-avoid systems, obstacle avoidance, and GPS night navigation. These advanced features are crucial for ensuring safe, long-range BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) flights, even in the most challenging environments. The integration of our autopilot propulsion system and onboard computing allows our drones to execute complex tasks with unparalleled precision, making them exceptionally reliable for applications ranging from e-commerce to defense.

    To maintain continuous communication and control, our drones utilize a proprietary, redundant communication system that operates seamlessly across multiple networks, including Radio Frequency, 4G, 5G, and Satellite Communication. This system ensures that our drones remain connected to ground control stations throughout their flights, significantly enhancing

    Our commitment to innovation and safety was further recognised by our win in the Qualcomm Design India Challenge in 2022.

    StartupTalky: What technological innovations set TechEagle’s drones apart from competitors?

    Mr. Vikram: TechEagle’s drones are distinguished by several cutting-edge technological innovations that make them highly versatile and adaptable across a broad spectrum of industries:

    • Long-Range and High Payload Capacity: Our drones are designed for extended flights with significant payload capabilities, making them ideal for a wide range of logistics applications. Whether operating in dense urban areas or challenging environments, our drones ensure reliable and efficient delivery of essential goods, from medical supplies to everyday consumer products.
    • 5G and AI-Driven Command and Control Module: We’ve developed a state-of-the-art plug-and-play module that leverages 5G connectivity and AI to command and control an entire fleet of drones from a central hub. This system streamlines operations, enhances safety, reduces the need for manual intervention, and ensures continuous situational awareness across different sectors.
    • Advanced Software Solutions: Our proprietary software suite offers robust mission planning, real-time monitoring, and comprehensive data analytics. These tools give operators unparalleled control over their drone operations, optimizing both efficiency and safety. The software is designed to be intuitive and flexible, catering to the diverse logistics needs of various industries.
    • Customization to Industry Needs: We specialize in designing and manufacturing drones that are specifically tailored to meet the demands of sectors like logistics, healthcare, and defense. Our focus on customization ensures that our drones are not just versatile but also optimized to tackle the specific challenges of each industry, providing our clients with solutions that truly fit their needs.
    • Scalability and Future-Readiness: TechEagle’s drones are built with scalability in mind, allowing for easy expansion of operations as client needs grow. Our modular design and software architecture enables seamless integration of new technologies and capabilities, ensuring that our drones remain at the cutting edge of innovation.

    StartupTalky: What challenges have you encountered in operating drones for defense purposes, and how have you addressed them?

    Mr. Vikram: Operating drones for defense applications presents several unique challenges that require advanced technological solutions and rigorous engineering to overcome. Here are the key challenges and how TechEagle has addressed them:

    1. Reliability in Extreme and Unpredictable Conditions: Defense operations often take place in environments with extreme weather, high altitudes, and potentially hazardous terrains. Ensuring that our drones can perform reliably under these conditions has been a significant challenge. To address this, we have invested heavily in robust R&D to develop drones that meet and exceed global safety and reliability standards. Our drones undergo rigorous testing in simulated environments to ensure they can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining operational integrity.
    2. Navigation in GPS-Denied Environments: In many defense scenarios, GPS signals can be jammed or unavailable, making traditional navigation systems unreliable. To overcome this, we’ve integrated advanced AI-based navigation systems, including Visual-Inertial Odometry (VIO) and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technologies. These systems enable our drones to navigate autonomously and precisely in GPS-denied environments by relying on onboard sensors and real-time data processing.
    3. Communication in Electronic Warfare (EW) Environments: Defense operations often involve environments with significant electronic interference, which can disrupt drone communications. While 5G offers benefits in some scenarios, it’s not always feasible in military operations due to the lack of cellular networks and vulnerability to jamming. Instead, we use Satellite Communication (SATCOM) systems for long-range, secure communication. These systems operate on military communication bands, providing robust, interference-resistant links that ensure continuous command and control over the drones, even in electronically contested spaces.
    4. Customization for Mission-Specific Requirements: Defense missions vary widely, from surveillance and reconnaissance to logistics and tactical support. Each mission demands specific drone capabilities. At TechEagle, we address this by offering extensive customization options for our drones. Whether it’s integrating specialized sensors, enhancing payload capacity, or adjusting flight characteristics, our in-house R&D team works closely with defense clients to tailor drones to their specific needs, ensuring mission success.
    5. Security and Compliance with Defense Standards: Security is paramount in defense operations. Our drones are designed to meet stringent defense sector requirements, including encryption for communication channels and securing data against cyber threats. We also ensure our systems are compliant with defense standards, such as Design Assurance Level-D (DAL-D) for safe remote operation, which is critical for integrating our drones into complex defense networks.
    6. Autonomous Operation and AI-Driven Decision-Making: In defense operations, there are scenarios where drones must operate independently without real-time human control, especially in communications-denied environments. We’ve integrated AI-driven decision-making capabilities into our drones, allowing them to autonomously navigate, identify threats, and complete missions. This autonomy is supported by advanced computer vision and machine learning algorithms, enabling the drones to react and adapt to dynamic situations on the battlefield.

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    StartupTalky: What were the key factors behind the success of launching Asia’s largest Drone Delivery Hub, particularly concerning e-commerce?

    Mr. Vikram: The success of launching Asia’s largest drone delivery hub, especially in the context of e-commerce, can be attributed to several critical factors that go beyond just overcoming the challenges of rugged terrains:

    1. Strategic Infrastructure Development: Establishing the necessary operational and logistics infrastructure in challenging environments like Meghalaya required not only meticulous planning but also an innovative approach to problem-solving. We conducted extensive on-site assessments to create secure helipads and mapped out detailed flight routes that adhered to the highest safety standards.
    2. Leveraging Cutting-Edge Technology: Our success was also driven by the use of advanced drone technology, particularly our hybrid eVTOL drones, which combine vertical takeoff capabilities with long-range efficiency. This technology allowed us to navigate difficult terrains and deliver goods efficiently, whether it was medical supplies or e-commerce products. The drones’ high payload capacity and extended range made them ideal for covering large areas and servicing multiple locations.
    3. Robust Command and Control Systems: Our 5G and AI-powered command and control module was crucial in managing the entire fleet of drones from a central hub. This system not only simplified operations but also enhanced safety and reliability, enabling real-time monitoring and dynamic mission adjustments based on environmental conditions. This ensured that deliveries were not just timely but also consistent in quality.
    4. Collaboration with Local Authorities and Stakeholders: A significant factor in our success was the strong collaboration with local government authorities, healthcare providers, and community leaders. Their support was instrumental in gaining access to necessary locations, understanding local needs, and ensuring the smooth execution of the project. This partnership was particularly important in building trust and ensuring community acceptance of the new technology.
    5. Focus on Scalability and Future Expansion: From the outset, we designed the drone delivery hub with scalability in mind. This allowed us to not only meet the immediate needs of the region but also plan for future expansions. Our current operations, which impact over 1.5 million people daily by delivering essential supplies to 30% of Meghalaya, are just the beginning. We are already working on the next phase of expansion to cover 100% of the state, with plans to replicate this model across other regions in India and beyond.
    6. Commitment to Customer-Centric Solutions: While the initial focus was on healthcare logistics, the infrastructure and technology we developed are highly adaptable to e-commerce needs. The success of the hub is not just about delivering goods but about enhancing the customer experience by providing faster, more reliable service. This customer-centric approach is key to driving adoption in the e-commerce sector and expanding the reach of drone logistics.
    7. Continuous Improvement and Innovation: We view every challenge as an opportunity for growth. The insights gained from operating in such a demanding environment have informed our ongoing efforts to refine and enhance our technology and processes.

    These factors combined to make the launch of Asia’s largest drone delivery hub a success, setting a new standard for drone-based logistics in e-commerce and beyond.

    StartupTalky: Your drones have saved 2,500 metric tonnes in carbon emissions. How does TechEagle plan to enhance its environmental sustainability further?

    Mr. Vikram: Environmental sustainability is at the core of TechEagle’s mission. While saving 2,500 metric tonnes of carbon emissions is a significant achievement, we are committed to pushing these efforts even further. We plan to enhance our sustainability through several key strategies:

    1. Advanced Battery Technology: We are continually improving our drones’ energy efficiency by investing in next-generation battery technology. This includes exploring solid-state batteries and other innovations that offer higher energy density, longer life cycles, and faster charging times. These advancements will reduce the energy required for each flight, minimizing our overall carbon footprint.
    2. Optimized Flight Algorithms: Our R&D teams are developing more sophisticated flight algorithms that optimize flight paths, reduce energy consumption, and extend operational range. By using AI and machine learning to continuously refine these algorithms, we can ensure that our drones are as energy-efficient as possible during every mission.
    3. Renewable Energy Integration: We are exploring the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into our operations. This includes deploying solar-powered charging stations for drones, which would further decrease the reliance on fossil fuels and reduce the carbon emissions associated with our logistics chain.
    4. Circular Economy Practices: We are adopting circular economy principles in our manufacturing and operations. This involves using recyclable materials in drone production, reducing waste through more efficient manufacturing processes, and developing programs for refurbishing and recycling older drone models.

    These efforts are designed to make TechEagle a leader in sustainable drone technology, ensuring that our operations contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

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    StartupTalky: How have your partnerships with AIIMS, Swiggy, and defense organizations impacted your growth and operations?

    Mr. Vikram: Our strategic partnerships with key organizations have played a pivotal role in shaping TechEagle’s growth and operational capabilities:

    1. Healthcare Logistics: While we have collaborated extensively with healthcare providers, such as AIIMS, to refine our drone technology for medical deliveries, our focus now is on how these experiences have enhanced our overall logistics capabilities. Working in healthcare has allowed us to develop drones that are not only reliable but also meet the stringent demands of time-sensitive and critical deliveries, which is a valuable asset across all sectors we serve.
    2. E-Commerce Insights: Collaborations with leading food delivery players like Swiggy and others in the e-commerce space have provided us with crucial insights into last-mile logistics. These partnerships have helped us better understand the dynamics of rapid delivery, customer expectations, and operational efficiency in urban environments.
    3. Defense Applications: Our work with defense organizations has driven innovation at the highest levels, focusing on security, reliability, and adaptability. Although specific details remain confidential, these collaborations have significantly expanded our technological capabilities and positioned us as a key player in providing advanced drone solutions for complex and critical missions.

    In summary, our partnerships across healthcare, e-commerce, and defense have not only enhanced our technical expertise but have also allowed us to apply these learnings across different sectors, driving TechEagle’s growth and innovation.

    StartupTalky: What do the recent tenders from the Ministry of Defence mean for TechEagle’s future in the defense sector?

    Mr. Vikram: The recent tenders from the Ministry of Defence strongly indicate that the technology we’ve been developing is in alignment with the evolving needs of the defense sector. This is a clear sign that our efforts in building robust, adaptable, and advanced drone solutions are resonating well with the Defense industry’s demands.

    Since our inception in 2015, we’ve focused on revolutionising logistics through innovation. This recognition from such a critical sector is not just a testament to the hard work and dedication we’ve put into product development—it’s also a validation of our vision to contribute meaningfully to national security through cutting-edge technology. This progress fuels our excitement as we continue to explore new possibilities in the defense sector, leveraging our expertise to meet the highest standards and expectations.

    StartupTalky: What are TechEagle’s plans for expanding its services in the e-commerce and defense sectors, and what impact do you expect?

    Mr. Vikram: TechEagle is strategically expanding in both e-commerce and defense sectors, focusing on areas with significant logistical challenges.

    1. E-Commerce: We’re targeting key regions, particularly those underserved by traditional logistics, to deploy drone delivery services. With increasing internet penetration and online shopping in lower-tier towns, our early deployments have shown promising results in enhancing last-mile logistics. By making deliveries faster and more efficient, we aim to open up new markets and improve service accessibility in these areas.
    2. Defense: In the defense sector, we are refining our offerings to meet specific military needs. Our VertiPlane X3 has proven effective in demanding scenarios, and we’re expanding our portfolio to address challenges like autonomous operations and electronic warfare resilience. These innovations will enhance mission effectiveness and contribute to national security.
    3. Impact: Our expansion will revolutionise last-mile logistics in e-commerce, while in defense, it will strengthen operational efficiency and technological superiority. This aligns with our vision to lead in drone technology, driving innovation across multiple industries.

    StartupTalky: What role does funding play in your future projects, such as developing heavy payload drones and global expansion?

    Mr. Vikram: Funding is essential to advancing TechEagle’s future projects, particularly in the development of heavy payload drones and driving our global expansion. Our focus on innovation, supported by fully indigenous hardware and software, demands significant investment in R&D. While funding often poses challenges for ambitious ventures, our Indian DNA, frugality at the core, and the founders’ decade-long experience in the drone and logistics domain enable us to maximise the impact of every rupee. This approach allows us to innovate efficiently without being constrained by financial limitations.

    To date, we’ve successfully raised two rounds of funding from prominent VC funds, UHNIs, and visionary entrepreneurs. This capital not only fuels our current innovations but also provides strategic guidance that shapes our growth trajectory. While we don’t face a funding crunch, we remain open to additional investments from vision-aligned partners who can help further accelerate our mission to revolutionise logistics. We will also be going for our Series A soon.

    In essence, funding is not just about securing capital; it’s about ensuring sustainable growth and maintaining our leadership in drone technology as we scale our operations across industries in India. While we’ve made significant strides, the continuous pursuit of innovation means that additional funding will always be welcome to fully realise our vision of transforming logistics on a global scale.

    Mr. Vikram: The future of logistics is set to be transformed by several key innovations in drone technology, with a strong focus on autonomy and integration into global networks:

    1. Heavy Payload Drones: The development of heavy payload drones is poised to revolutionize mid-mile and first-mile logistics. These drones will enable the transport of larger quantities of goods over greater distances, significantly reducing costs—potentially by up to 80%. This innovation will facilitate more integrated and efficient supply chains, making logistics faster, more reliable, and cost-effective, while also addressing challenges in reaching remote or hard-to-access areas.
    2. Autonomous Operations through AI and Machine Learning: Advances in AI and machine learning are driving drones towards greater autonomy. Drones equipped with these technologies can learn and adapt to new environments, making them capable of safe operation in complex and dynamic conditions, such as urban landscapes. This enhanced autonomy is crucial for expanding the use of drones in both commercial and defense sectors, particularly in GPS-denied or communication-challenged environments.
    3. Airspace Traffic Management (UTM): The integration of drones into airspace traffic management systems, also known as Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM), will be a key trend. As drone operations increase, seamless UTM systems that ensure safe and efficient operation of both manned and unmanned vehicles will be essential. These systems will allow drones to efficiently navigate through busy airspaces, particularly in urban areas.
    4. Regulatory Evolution for Autonomous Flight: The success of autonomous drone operations will heavily rely on the evolution of regulatory frameworks. Aviation authorities worldwide are increasingly developing regulations that support autonomous flight, including standards for AI-driven decision-making, fail-safe mechanisms, and data security. These frameworks are essential for scaling autonomous drone logistics globally.
    5. Advanced Autopilot and Navigation Systems: The next generation of autopilot systems, integrated with AI and sensor fusion technologies, will allow drones to operate with greater autonomy. These systems will enable precise navigation, obstacle detection, and collision avoidance, even in complex and crowded airspaces. This will be particularly important for expanding drone operations in urban environments.
    6. 5G and Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Synergy: While 5G will enhance real-time communication in areas with robust infrastructure, satellite communication will ensure connectivity in remote or underserved regions. The synergy between these technologies will support the global deployment of autonomous drone fleets, making logistics more resilient and reliable.

    These innovations will drive the logistics industry towards a more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective future. TechEagle is excited to be at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging these trends to shape the future of logistics and Urban Air Mobility on a global scale.

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  • Engineer’s Day Special: How Vikas Kakkar’s Amara.ai is Revolutionising HR with AI

    In honor of Engineer’s Day, StartupTalky features Vikas Kakkar, Co-Founder and CEO of Amara.ai. Kakkar’s transition from engineering to entrepreneurship was fuelled by a vision to transform traditional HR processes with AI. In this interview, he reveals how Amara.ai’s advanced chatbot improves employee engagement and supports HR teams with real-time feedback and automation. Kakkar also discusses the future trends in HR tech and the hurdles faced during the company’s early days.

    StartupTalky: What motivated your move from engineering to entrepreneurship, and what key steps did you take to start your company?

    Mr. Kakkar: My move from engineering to entrepreneurship was driven by the desire to solve real-world problems that I noticed during my career. While working as an engineer, I realized there were many inefficiencies in traditional HR processes, especially in recruitment and employee engagement. I saw an opportunity to use technology to improve these areas, which led me to the idea of creating a solution that could streamline these processes. That’s how the idea for my company was born. The first key step I took was identifying the specific pain points in HR that I wanted to address. I spent a lot of time understanding the challenges faced by HR professionals. Then, I built a small team of like-minded people who shared my vision. We started with a focus on recruitment automation and gradually expanded into other areas like employee engagement. Another important step was securing the right technology and resources to build our product and test it in the market. It wasn’t easy, but by staying committed to solving a real problem, we were able to grow the business from there.

    Mr. Kakkar: I have chosen this industry because I saw a clear need for innovation in HR processes, particularly around recruitment and employee engagement. Traditional methods were not keeping up with the fast-paced changes in the workplace, and I felt there was an opportunity to introduce technology, especially AI, to improve efficiency and make HR more strategic. Employees are the backbone of any business, and helping companies better engage with and retain their talent was a challenge that appealed to me.

    As for the future, I see several key trends shaping the industry. One is the growing use of AI and data analytics to make more informed decisions about talent management. Automation will continue to reduce the time HR teams spend on repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus more on strategic initiatives like employee well-being and company culture. Another important trend is the increasing focus on diversity, inclusion, and employee mental health, which are becoming central to a company’s success. Finally, with remote work becoming more common, there will be more opportunities to develop tools that help companies engage and support their employees, no matter where they are based. These trends present exciting opportunities for further innovation in the HR tech space.

    StartupTalky: What does Amara.ai do, and what real-world problem does your technology solve?

    Mr. Kakkar: Our company provides an AI-powered chatbot designed to enhance employee engagement and support HR teams in managing their workforce more effectively. Our technology interacts with employees at key points in their lifecycle, gathering feedback, assessing engagement levels, and identifying any risks related to attrition or disengagement. The chatbot also helps foster a positive work environment by promoting diversity, inclusion, and employee wellbeing.

    The real-world problem we solve is the challenge HR teams face in keeping employees engaged, especially in large organizations. Traditional HR methods often fall short when it comes to understanding employees’ needs and identifying potential issues early on. By using our AI-powered chatbot, companies can stay connected with their employees, ensure higher engagement levels, and address problems before they escalate. This ultimately helps improve employee satisfaction and retention, making HR processes more proactive and efficient.

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    StartupTalky: Tell us about the core technology behind Amara.ai’s products or services, and how it stands out from others in the market.

    Mr. Kakkar: Amara.ai’s core technology is driven by advanced AI algorithms designed to personalize and streamline employee engagement processes. What sets us apart is our intelligent chatbot, which not only automates repetitive HR tasks but also provides real-time insights into employee well-being, engagement, and satisfaction. Unlike many platforms, Amara integrates seamlessly with existing HR systems and offers highly customizable features, allowing organizations to scale effortlessly as they grow. Additionally, our focus on well-being assessments and diversity analysis ensures a holistic approach to employee engagement, making us a standout in the HR tech landscape.

    StartupTalky: How did you secure your initial customers, and what strategies worked best to gain their trust and business?

    Mr. Kakkar: Securing our initial customers was all about building trust through personalized, results-driven engagement. We focused on demonstrating the value of Amara.ai by offering trial periods where potential clients could experience firsthand how our AI-powered solutions streamlined their HR processes and improved employee engagement. Transparent communication and showcasing measurable outcomes, like improved employee satisfaction and reduced manual tasks, played a key role. Additionally, we leveraged customer testimonials and case studies to highlight successful implementations, which helped build credibility and encourage others to adopt our platform.

    StartupTalky: What were the main challenges you faced early on, and how did you overcome them?

    Mr. Kakkar: In the early stages, one of the main challenges was convincing businesses to adopt AI-powered HR solutions. Many companies were hesitant to transition from traditional methods, fearing complexity or loss of the human touch. To overcome this, we focused on educating potential customers about the benefits of automation and how Amara.ai enhances, rather than replaces, human interaction in HR.

    Another challenge was refining our technology to meet diverse business needs. We addressed this by actively listening to customer feedback and continually improving our platform’s customization and integration capabilities. These efforts helped us build trust and create a solution that truly met the needs of our users.

    StartupTalky: What tools or software are key to your business operations, and how do they help improve efficiency?

    Mr. Kakkar: AI-powered platforms and cloud-based systems that automate processes like performance management and employee engagement are important tools in company operations. Real-time feedback collecting and predictive analytics are made possible by these solutions, which aid in the early detection of potential hazards like disengagement or retention. Workflows that are automated also minimize the need for human intervention, which increases process speed and accuracy in HR. This enhances overall productivity and employee experience while freeing up HR personnel to concentrate on strategic duties.

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  • How IIT Engineer-Turned-Entrepreneur Srishti Srivastava is Shaping the Future of Mental Health with AI

    Srishti Srivastava, an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, and Founder and CEO of Infiheal, established the company to revolutionize mental health care. On Engineer’s Day, we spotlight her journey from engineering to entrepreneurship, driven by her struggles with social anxiety. She developed HEALO, an AI-powered mental health companion that provides 24/7 support. Combining advanced AI technology with her expertise in psychology, Srivastava’s innovative platform addresses key challenges like affordability, accessibility, and stigma, making mental health care more inclusive and accessible for all.

    StartupTalky: What motivated your move from engineering to entrepreneurship, and what key steps did you take to start Infiheal? 

    Ms. Srivastava: My transition from engineering to entrepreneurship was motivated by a personal need and a desire to address gaps in mental health care. As someone who is neurodivergent and has struggled with social anxiety all my life, lack of awareness and stigma around the topic made it hard for me to even share what I was going through even to my loved ones. I sought a solution that would allow me to work on my mental health independently, without relying solely on traditional therapy appointments. Something that I could access anytime I felt anxious. 

    I found traditional mental health solutions often have limitations such as high costs, accessibility issues, and variability in the quality of care. When I couldn’t find a suitable solution that met my needs, I decided to create one myself. 

    Turns out that I wasn’t alone in facing these challenges—over 150 million people in India and 500 million people globally encounter difficulties in accessing mental health care due to stigma, accessibility issues, and affordability concerns. 

    To address these issues, I engaged with over 1,000 mental health professionals and conducted surveys with our mental health community, which includes 70,000 followers. I also consulted with government bodies, gaining crucial validation and support, including recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

    Despite my engineering background from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, my passion for psychology drove me to study various personality systems and earn certifications in counseling and therapy. My co-founder, Utkarsh, has a CS Master’s from Boston University and shares similar struggles with social anxiety, so we combined our technical expertise and personal insights to develop HEALO—an AI-powered mental health companion and co-therapist that is both innovative and empathetic. HEALO offers an end-to-end solution, addressing a broad range of mental health issues. It facilitates everything from initiating conversations and forming healthy habits to matching individuals with therapists based on their unique personalities and needs. 

    Ms. Srivastava: Driven by my academic background in psychology and personal mental health experiences, I chose to enter this industry. I noticed significant gaps in the Healthtech space: a lack of involvement from mental health professionals, which resulted in less personalized care, and limited use of AI in existing solutions.

    By bringing together a shared vision and diverse talents—from mental health professionals to tech experts—I was able to explore new ways to develop products and services that address these gaps in the market, turning them into opportunities for growth and innovation. 

    AI-driven solutions that can deliver more personalized & scalable mental health care. These tools offer real-time support to bridge the gap between therapy sessions and provide mental health resources on-demand at any time of day or night. 

    The increased interest in teletherapy and virtual care is also a very important trend, which has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It also has made mental health services more available, especially in rural or underserved areas. More focus on the prevention of mental health is also part of this trend, too — apps, chatbots, and digital platforms for example can offer support before issues peak. 

    Similarly, there are clear opportunities relative to stigma reduction. While society is still a long way from treating mental health on par with physical health, the more public conversation around it — led in part by social media and celebrities who de-stigmatize their issues— means that many people are seeking treatment for it. This allows for new mental health solutions that work across a demographic spectrum, including neurodiverse and those battling social anxiety or depression. And, personalized care via deep data insights is an absolute must. However, as technology progresses there is an opportunity to use personal data in a way that respects the user and allows for more personalized interventions that match individual needs — ultimately creating better bad news communication. 

    Finances have also always been a barrier, but reductions in technology costs and the possibility of scaling therapies may help make mental healthcare more affordable for patients all around the world. This suggests a future where holistic, personalized mental health care becomes the norm and removes many barriers to access that have historically existed. 

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    StartupTalky: What does Infiheal do, and what real-world problem does your technology solve? 

    Ms. Srivastava: HEALO is an innovative solution designed to tackle significant challenges in mental health care. Traditional therapy often suffers from long wait times due to high demand and a shortage of professionals, but HEALO offers immediate, 24/7 support through its AI therapist, ensuring that users can access help whenever they need it.

    Accessibility is another major issue, especially in regions with limited mental health resources; HEALO bridges this gap by providing support to anyone with an internet connection, making mental health care more universally available. Affordability is also a critical concern, as professional therapy can be prohibitively expensive for many.

    HEALO addresses this by offering a more cost-effective alternative, broadening access without sacrificing quality. Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health can deter individuals from seeking help; HEALO’s anonymous platform helps reduce this barrier, allowing users to seek support discreetly.

    The AI therapist is trained on a proprietary dataset of over 100,000 therapy sessions, covering a wide range of issues from everyday challenges like low self-esteem and public speaking to more severe clinical disorders, sexual disorders, disabilities, and crisis situations. Developed with input from clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, doctors, special educators, and counseling psychologists, HEALO is grounded in expert knowledge and best practices, providing a comprehensive and effective tool for addressing the global mental health crisis. 

    StartupTalky: Tell us about the core technology behind Infiheal’s products or services, and how it stands out from others in the market. 

    Ms. Srivastava: The core technology behind our product integrates advanced AI, notably Transformers and OpenAI models, to power intelligent systems like bots. For efficient data retrieval and personalization, we leverage Qdrant and Faiss in conjunction with neural networks. On the backend, we employ Python and FastAPI to build REST APIs, while dynamic web interfaces are developed using ReactJS, Angular, and the MERN stack. Deployment is managed through AWS, ECS, and Docker, with infrastructure scalability handled by Terraform and Azure. This robust tech stack enables us to deliver personalized, scalable solutions distinguished by high performance and user-centric design. 

    What sets Healo apart is its highly personalized, adaptive support that evolves with users throughout their mental health journey. 

    Unlike rigid, rule-based systems present in the market, Healo utilizes one of the largest proprietary, real-time domain-specific datasets curated by therapists and psychologists. This dataset covers over 20 modalities and various APIs based on risk profiles. Coupled with custom-designed Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Healo delivers a dynamic and deeply personalized therapy-like experience. 

    Healo also features a three-layer moderation system that identifies and redirects severe cases, such as suicidal ideation and self-harm, to appropriate distress helplines—a critical aspect that differentiates it from other GenAI bots. 

    Incorporating cutting-edge research from psychoneuroimmunology and epigenetics, Healo provides actionable insights that bridge the mind-body connection. This approach is grounded in therapeutic modalities, developed in close collaboration with clinical and counseling psychologists, to address diverse user needs. 

    Additionally, Healo addresses a broad spectrum of issues, including mental, physical, and sexual health, offering a truly holistic approach. Despite its advanced features and personalization, Healo remains one of the most affordable options available, making it a superior choice for dynamic, individualized mental health support.

    StartupTalky: How did you secure your initial customers, and what strategies worked best to gain their trust and business? 

    Ms. Srivastava: Our initial set of users came through our social media community (70k), mass campaigns (organic reach of 1 million people), and University campus ambassador programs (10k). Then we got a major boost when we got a shoutout from The Honorable Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi who mentioned us during his national address. We have beta tested with 25000+ beta testers and a community of over 70k+ in the last 6 months. Most of these users were working professionals or students in the age group of 16-40 going through a difficult patch – heartbreak, loss of job, health anxiety etc. who are now eagerly awaiting the official launch of the product. We also have a community of 1000+ mental health professionals who are endorsing Healo and have been onboarded on the platform. We have recorded over 300k+ therapy sessions. 

    After completing beta testing and our clinical trials, we are preparing for our official launch next month. We’ve introduced subscription plans for our Healo AI therapist last week, and users are currently in a three-week free trial phase. Paid subscriptions for the AI therapist and psychometric tests are expected to start soon. 

    Our biggest deal yet is with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, where they will be providing Healo to persons with disabilities and their caregivers that’s expected to reach 100000 users helping us get to a projected revenue of $300000. 

    StartupTalky: What were the main challenges you faced early on, and how did you overcome them? 

    Ms. Srivastava: The main challenges we faced early on were raising awareness, incorporating research and industry-backed insights, and ensuring the affordability of our solution. 

    The mental health field requires a significant boost in awareness, coupled with efforts to improve accessibility and acceptance. Recognizing and understanding emotions is a task that society has only recently begun to embrace, and overcoming entrenched stigmas remains an ongoing struggle. It was important for us to develop a platform that people can trust and are comfortable to use without having any fear of judgment. 

    Another significant challenge was balancing the role of technology with human expertise. While AI presents a revolutionary opportunity for mental health care, we aimed to ensure that HEALO complemented, rather than replaced, the work of mental health professionals. Our goal was to develop a platform that was not only technologically advanced but also empathetic, inclusive, and user-friendly. HEALO is designed as a judgment-free companion that provides real-time support, extending care beyond scheduled therapy sessions and integrating seamlessly with professional practices.

    Another challenge we faced was scalability. We wanted to offer an affordable solution that could reach people across all backgrounds which required a robust AI Model capable of handling nuances of mental health conversations. 

    To address these challenges, we focused on creating a tool that offers a more accessible, affordable, and stigma-free approach to mental health care. By combining technological innovation with professional insights, we aimed to make mental health support scalable and effective, ultimately enhancing both the reach and quality of care available to individuals in need. 

    StartupTalky: What tools or software are key to your business operations, and how do they help improve efficiency? 

    Ms. Srivastava: Our approach to applying AI in mental health combines expert-vetted data with cutting-edge large language models (LLMs) from OpenAI. We use vector databases like Qdrant for precise context search and retrieval, supported by a custom Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) framework. Our dataset, which includes over 300,000 user conversations, is continually refined to enhance response accuracy. To optimize both cost and performance, we are developing an in-house language model by fine-tuning open-source LLMs. This comprehensive strategy allows us to deliver highly personalized mental health solutions through a combination of curated datasets, advanced retrieval methods, and sophisticated classification techniques.

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  • From Engineer to Eco-Warrior: How Vishal Gupta, Co-Founder and CTO of MaxVolt Energy, is Revolutionising Lithium Battery Tech

    In celebration of Engineer’s Day, StartupTalky explores the journey of Vishal Gupta, Co-Founder and CTO of MaxVolt Energy, as he transitions from engineering to entrepreneurship. Driven by a passion for eco-friendly innovations, Gupta entered the lithium battery industry, focusing on sustainable energy solutions. In this interview, he discusses MaxVolt Energy’s advanced technologies, including Active Balancers and recycling efforts, along with the strategies that helped secure their initial customers. Gupta also addresses the challenges faced early on and how MaxVolt Energy overcame them to become a key player in the evolving energy storage market.

    StartupTalky: What motivated you to move from engineering to entrepreneurship, and what key steps did you take to start your company?

    Mr. Gupta: The transition from being an engineer to becoming an entrepreneur was primarily driven by the urge to address particular concerns, making innovations that are eco-friendly and help sustain the environment. Engineering made me skilled in innovation, and more importantly, problem-solving, which steered me towards entrepreneurship. The necessary key steps include recognizing an issue, building a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP), formulating a business opportunity, performing some research, and devising a business strategy.

    Finally, more focus was given to product development – starting with a minimum viable product, taking feedback, listening to the consumers, and building up the business. I have enjoyed utilising my technical abilities in managing a business and appreciate the complexity involved in the process.

    Mr. Gupta: The fact behind choosing this industry was my personal interest in Lithium Batteries and its manufacturing and recycling alongside the increasing market demand in the ecologically-friendly energy segment. Further, our expertise in this industry enables us to make new innovations in technical areas such as battery design and management.

    While peeking into the future, one can notice trends such as the optimization of energy storage, advancements in recycling, and the constant developments in the EV sector. The opportunities I see in shaping the future to make our environment more eco-friendly will be helpful in controlling pollution caused by ICE vehicles. Additionally, by recycling lithium batteries, we can use them again and again by just charging.

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    StartupTalky: What does MaxVolt Energy do, and what real-world problem does your technology solve?

    Mr. Gupta: Our core business is the production and recycling of lithium batteries. We employ technologies that solve real-world problems in the energy storage domain through Heat Management, Active Battery Control, Battery Longevity, and Battery Endurance. Our goal is to minimize waste and improve the sustainability of the lithium battery packs by considering how these can be reused or recycled.

    StartupTalky: Tell us about the core technology behind MaxVolt Energy’s products or services and how it stands out from others in the market.

    Mr. Gupta: The core technology behind our products and services includes Active Balancers which basically work to improve the battery capacity and its fire resistance. Our batteries are equipped with features like over-temperature alarms and a sleep switch, especially when the battery is not being charged. Our products stand out from others in the market when it comes to service. We have added propositions by offering onsite support to more than 19,000 pin codes and a take-back facility on old battery packs to our clients.

    StartupTalky: How did you secure your initial customers, and what strategies worked best to gain their trust and business?

    Mr. Gupta: The initial customers were obtained by creating product awareness among them and emphasizing the value of the technology. By using lithium batteries, they can save money, which they are going to spend on fuel if they have petrol or diesel vehicles. The strategies worked for us, like the use of success stories and customer references, providing exceptional support, building a strong online presence, and building healthy relationships. These are the major strategies for generating early leads.

    StartupTalky: What were the main challenges you faced early on, and how did you overcome them?

    Mr. Gupta: The main challenges faced in the early stages were limited availability of raw materials, high costs, and hefty investments in technological advancements. However, the government’s focus on renewable energy presents significant opportunities like tax credits and tenders for energy storage projects. MaxVolt Energy Industries positions itself as a key player by leveraging these opportunities, particularly through strategic partnerships and innovations that address the cost and supply chain challenges, ensuring we remain at the forefront of this evolving industry.

    StartupTalky: What tools or software are key to your business operations, and how do they help improve efficiency?

    Mr. Gupta: Our production involves using a system called ERP, which assists in managing stocks, regulating waste in raw materials, and preparing reports. It has the ability to track inventory quantities of various warehouses and never let a particular material be below a specific level provided by this system. The application of the ERP solution has enhanced our day to day operations as it reduces time and cuts the cost involved.

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  • IndoAI Technologies’ Rashmi Kulkarni on Empowering Industries with Edge AI and Custom AI Models

    In celebration of Engineer’s Day, StartupTalky connects with Rashmi Kulkarni, Co-founder and Director of IndoAI Technologies Pvt. Ltd. A visionary entrepreneur with a strong engineering background, Kulkarni’s journey from solving problems as an engineer to leading a tech-driven company highlights her commitment to innovation. In this conversation, we explore how her edge AI smart camera solutions are tackling practical security challenges, her entrepreneurial path, and the trends she expects to shape the future of this fast-growing industry.

    StartupTalky: What motivated your move from engineering to entrepreneurship, and what key steps did you take to start your company?

    Ms. Kulkarni: I have a desire to innovate the solutions that directly impact people’s lives. As an engineer, I was always passionate about solving people’s problems, but I always wanted to expand that scope by building products and services that solve real-world problems. That desire, with my curiosity in mind for emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, inspired me to take the entrepreneurial path. 

    Key steps I have taken to start my own company include finding gaps in the market, forming a team of like-minded people, and continuously learning about business and technology to build my own product. 

    I was also fortunate enough to build a strong network of mentors and business partners/experts to guide me through the early stages of my entrepreneurial journey. Most importantly, I always believe in the power of persistent work and adopting new technologies which helps me to grow my company gradually.

    Ms. Kulkarni: I chose to focus on edge AI smart cameras because they represent the forefront of technological innovation in appization to deploy AI models easily on the camera which is a plug-and-play system. By integrating AI directly into smart cameras, we can deliver real-time processing and analysis at the edge, which enhances both efficiency and responsiveness. This approach allows us to address complex security challenges and contribute to the development of smarter, more connected environments.

    The future of edge AI smart cameras is shaped by advanced AI for real-time analysis, edge computing for faster processing, integration with smart city infrastructure, increased focus on data privacy, and a push towards energy-efficient solutions. Also, appization will enable edge AI smart cameras to support a wide range of customised applications and functionalities, allowing for more versatile and adaptable solutions. This trend will drive innovation by integrating smart cameras with various apps for enhanced features like advanced analytics, user-specific alerts, and seamless integration with other smart technologies.

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    StartupTalky: What does IndoAI Technologies do, and what real-world problem does your technology solve?

    Ms. Kulkarni: IndoAI Technologies specialises in edge AI smart cameras that integrate advanced artificial intelligence for real-time processing and analysis with Appization of AI models. We are allowing our clients to deploy AI models on the camera in just one click. Our technology addresses critical security and safety challenges by providing intelligent surveillance solutions that enhance monitoring efficiency, reduce response times, and offer advanced features like fire and smoke detection, visitor management, and more. This enables businesses and organisations to improve safety, streamline operations, and make informed decisions based on accurate, real-time data.

    StartupTalky: Tell us about the core technology behind IndoAI Technologies’ products or services and how it stands out from others in the market.

    Ms. Kulkarni: IndoAI Technologies uses edge AI smart cameras that perform real-time data processing on-device, reducing latency and enhancing privacy. Our technology stands out by integrating seamlessly with various applications and smart city systems, offering customisable solutions for specific needs like fire detection, visitor management, employee management, and many more.

    StartupTalky: How did you secure your initial customers, and what strategies worked best to gain their trust and business?

    Ms. Kulkarni: We secured initial customers through live demonstrations of our product and great customer service, networking, and leveraging positive customer testimonials. These strategies helped showcase our technology’s value and build trust.

    StartupTalky: What were the main challenges you faced early on, and how did you overcome them?

    Ms. Kulkarni: The main challenges we faced early on were market entry, technology development, and gaining customer trust.

    Solutions: We conducted live demonstrations to showcase our product’s value, invested in R&D to enhance our technology, and built relationships through positive customer testimonials.

    StartupTalky: What tools or software are key to your business operations, and how do they help improve efficiency?

    Ms. Kulkarni: Tools or software key to our business operations are:

    • Communication: Slack – Facilitates team communication and collaboration.
    • Task Management: Asana – Organises and tracks tasks and projects.
    • Marketing and Sales: HubSpot – Manages marketing campaigns and sales processes.
    • Collaterals Creation: Figma, Canva, Adobe – Designs and creates marketing and design materials.
    • Videos: InVideo – Produces and edits videos efficiently.

    These tools enhance collaboration, streamline task management, optimise marketing and sales efforts, and simplify content creation.

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  • Satyabrata Satapathy, CEO of BonV Aero, on Leading Smart Aerial Mobility and Record-Breaking Drone Innovations

    In this interaction with StartupTalky, Satyabrata Satapathy, CEO and Co-Founder of BonV Aero, talks about how the company is revolutionising defense, logistics, and disaster management with its drones. He talks about BonV Aero’s mission to provide aerial mobility solutions through local manufacturing, focusing on sustainability and high-altitude capabilities. Satapathy also discusses their success stories, including breaking world records, and shares his insights on the future of the drone industry in India.

    StartupTalky: What is BonV Aero’s mission, and how does the company aim to impact defense, logistics, and disaster management?

    Mr. Satapathy: Our mission is to produce high-quality, safe, and reliable products with a focus on indigenous manufacturing adhering to the highest standards of safety and quality. We would want to bring Arial Mobility Solutions to these sectors.

    StartupTalky: What problems does BonV Aero’s drone technology solve in defense, logistics, and disaster management?

    Mr. Satapathy: BonV Aero was established to address the challenges faced in transporting logistics to remote and high-altitude areas, particularly in difficult terrains such as borderfront areas and during disaster situations. Traditional methods such as using mules and porters posed risks to human life, especially in high-altitude regions. 

    With our logistic drones capable of carrying payloads of up to 50 kg and flying at altitudes above 16000 ft, we aimed to provide a safe and efficient solution for the Indian Army and other stakeholders operating in similar environments. The need for reliable, versatile, and efficient logistics transport in challenging terrains and disaster scenarios propelled the foundation of our company and the development of our innovative products.

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    StartupTalky: What are the key features and advantages of your drone systems compared to others in the market?

    Mr. Satapathy: The key features and advantages of our drone systems compared to others in the market include:

    • The propulsion system developed by us is capable of flying at high altitudes.
    • Self-flying technology is also an innovation and a unique selling point (USP) of our drones.
    • Airframe is another level of innovation we brought in metal alloys, where we came up with innovative aerospace-grade aluminium alloy, which is cost-effective, reliable, maintainable, and light weight.

    StartupTalky: How does the eVTOL vehicle contribute to carbon-free smart aerial mobility, and what are its benefits for logistics and cargo transportation?

    Mr. Satapathy: We prioritise sustainability and social responsibility through our commitment to minimising environmental impact. Our logistic drones are powered by batteries, ensuring that our operations leave no carbon footprint in the environment. By leveraging battery-powered technology, we strive to promote clean energy usage, reduce air pollution, and contribute to a more sustainable future for both industry and society. As part of our social responsibility initiatives, we are dedicated to advancing eco-friendly practices and setting a precedent for environmentally conscious innovation within the drone manufacturing and logistics industry.

    StartupTalky: How does BonV Aero approach development and innovation in drone systems? What role does R&D play?

    Mr. Satapathy: BonV Aero places a strong emphasis on development and innovation in drone systems through its in-house manufacturing approach, ensuring full control over key components like aerostructures. We have a state-of-the-art R&D facility that manages everything from the design to the fabrication of these structures. This comprehensive R&D process extends into critical areas such as motor and motor controller designs, ensuring their drones remain highly efficient even in extreme conditions, like the high altitudes of the Himalayas.

    BonV Aero has also developed proprietary software platforms that enable drones to fly autonomously in any jamming atmosphere, a crucial feature for secure and reliable operations. These advancements in aerial mobility have been proven in practical scenarios, with BonV Aero successfully inducting logistic drones into the Indian Army. These eVTOLs are capable of operating in high-altitude and adverse environments, providing essential support for the Army in challenging conditions.

    StartupTalky: Share a notable project or success story where BonV Aero’s drones have had a significant impact.

    Mr. Satapathy: A significant success story for BonV Aero involved deploying our logistic drones in disaster-stricken areas to facilitate rapid and efficient delivery of emergency supplies. Our drones proved instrumental in areas where traditional transport could not reach, thereby significantly speeding up relief efforts and minimizing the impact of the disaster. We recently broke the world record for carrying the heaviest payload in our drone (30 kg) at the highest altitude in the Himalayas at Ladakh (19024 ft).

    StartupTalky: What are the main challenges in drone manufacturing, and how is BonV Aero addressing them?

    Mr. Satapathy: The main challenges in drone manufacturing include technological integration, regulatory compliance, and scalability of production. BonV Aero addresses these by innovating in electric propulsion systems for enhanced efficiency and safety, closely working with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance, and leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies to scale operations effectively.

    StartupTalky: What is your view on the current state and future outlook of the drone industry in India?

    Mr. Satapathy: The drone industry in India is at a burgeoning stage with vast potential for growth, driven by increasing adoption across sectors like agriculture, defense, and disaster management. The future outlook is promising due to supportive government policies promoting drone technology. BonV Aero is poised to lead this growth by innovating and adapting to market needs, thus contributing significantly to the industry’s evolution in India.

    Mr. Satapathy: Emerging trends in aerospace and aviation, such as autonomous flight systems, artificial intelligence in unmanned flight operations, and greener propulsion technologies, excite us at BonV Aero. We are actively incorporating these advancements into our designs to enhance drone capabilities and ensure sustainable operations.

    StartupTalky: What advice do you have for entrepreneurs looking to enter the drone industry?

    Mr. Satapathy: On the technology side, prioritize innovation by addressing the end user’s pain points. Understand your users deeply and focus on incremental improvements that make a real difference in their experience. Execution is equally important—ensure your solutions are practical, scalable, and well-aligned with user requirements.

    When it comes to funding, be clear about your “MOAT” when presenting to investors. Don’t hesitate to schedule meetings with multiple investors—be persistent and proactive. Seek investors who are not just financiers but true partners who can help guide and grow your business.

    Regarding regulations, having a deep understanding of the regulatory framework is crucial. Stay informed and engaged with the evolving regulatory landscape, as it can significantly impact the success of your startup.

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  • How YCook is Revolutionising Healthy Snacking with Residue-Free Innovation: CEO Janardhan Swahar Shares Insights

    In this insightful conversation with StartupTalky for Nutrition Week, Janardhan Swahar, Founder, Managing Director, and CEO of YCook India Pvt. Ltd., shares the journey behind venturing into the healthy, residue-free snack niche. He discusses YCook’s innovative sterilization process, the challenges of building a sustainable supply chain, and the importance of staying ahead of consumer trends. Swahar also highlights YCook’s commitment to environmental responsibility and the company’s future goals for product expansion.

    StartupTalky: What inspired you to venture into the healthy, residue-free snack niche, and how do you see the demand for such products evolving?

    Mr. Swahar: Our venture into the healthy, residue-free snack niche was driven by a simple-sounding yet profound vision- an affirmative to offer ‘good food for all.’ We wanted to ensure that healthy, affordably priced, and convenient choices of food become available to all people. As we researched further, we became aware that true ‘good food’ exists in nature’s offerings without artificial enhancements. This led us to manufacture steamed snacks that have a shelf life of one year without preservatives or additives. It all started with one single question: “How does food spoil?” Our curiosity-brought-forth technology developed one simple question, which took us to an assiduous development of technology that not only preserves food but retains nutrition. 

    We came across the demand for health-conscious, convenient, nutritious, and residue-free snacks. Amplified awareness regarding additives and preservatives in food led to the growing demand for clean-label, allergen-free products. It is a trend we see continuing, as people become more health-conscious and look more and more for clarity and transparency in the origins of their foods.

    StartupTalky: Can you explain Y-Cook’s unique sterilization process and how it ensures the long shelf life of your products without preservatives?

    Mr. Swahar: YCook has a cutting-edge sterilization method, known as retort processing, where air is extracted from the pack of produce and then steamed. Retort processing is a heat treatment process that sterilizes and extends the shelf life of food by destroying microorganisms that cause spoilage. This locks in the nutrients and flavor naturally while eliminating preservatives. Maintaining headspace and minimal residual water enables our foods to stay fresh for up to 12 months without refrigeration.

    Besides extending its life, it guarantees the integrity and taste of the food, much healthier for the consumers. Our patented and distinctive retort processing method successfully preserves the freshness of farm produce while enabling us to handle varying textures of the produce effectively.

    StartupTalky: What key challenges did you face while establishing a supply chain, when working directly with farmers? How did you overcome them?

    Mr. Swahar: Establishing a supply chain while working directly with farmers brought up many challenges, particularly in educating farmers about sustainable practices and quality consistency. We work with about 1,800 farmers from South India and offer them training and resources to ensure the building of soil health and promote residue-free farming. We have created a reliable supply chain with proper compensation and a great bond of relationship, for the produce to be fresh and good in quality.

    Some major innovations in meeting these challenges have been through the implementation of blockchain technology, which enables us to trace all our products right back to the individual farmers who grew them, thus giving much-needed visibility. This strengthens traceability, verifies the authenticity of our supply chain, and amplifies our commitment to quality and sustainability by allowing our customers to have faith in the origin and quality of their food. Our distribution in India involves engaging a network of distribution partners who further ensure that products regularly reach retailers, hence making the products easily accessible to consumers. In some instances, we also provide direct supplies to retailers to maintain the smoothness of the process of distribution.

    Mr. Swahar: Innovation is at the very core of YCook, ongoing monitoring of consumer trends and growth of demand for vegan and allergen-free products is followed by elaboration of new offerings responding to these needs. Our R&D is committed to regular study of new technologies and methods that allow improving product quality and creating genuinely unique minimally processed snacks. We further retain our leading position within the healthy food industry thanks to our close attention to consumer preferences and our sustainable approach.

    We are equally committed to making snacking not only nourishing but also satisfying. We continuously innovate and introduce international flavor profiles like teriyaki, wasabi, Italian herbs, and barbeque to meet the consumers’ demand for new tastes and preferences. These are not only about developing new flavors but are also about the high standards of quality and transparency created by consumer demands nowadays. We also focus on small single-serve packs to make trying out new flavors more accessible to portion-conscious consumers.

    StartupTalky: What steps does Y-Cook take to ensure environmental responsibility in its production and packaging processes?

    Mr. Swahar: YCook is committed to environmental responsibility throughout all the production processes. We care that the land is farmed in such a way as to be sustainable, that farmers are taught about soil health, and that wastes are managed effectively. We minimize our packaging while making sure it will be good for the environment. Energy-efficient production is our focus to reduce environmental damage, ensuring growth in ecological sustainability.

    StartupTalky: What is Y-Cook’s business model and how it drives your operations?

    Mr. Swahar: YCook’s business model is built on vertical integration, which drives our operations by ensuring complete control over the quality of our products from farm to table. We source fresh, residue-free produce directly from farmers trained in global Good Agricultural Practices. The commitment to quality starts at the source and is maintained throughout the entire production process.

    Innovation and quality lie at the heart of the vertical business model YCook innovates. Our approach to technological production goes beyond sustainable practices: energy-efficient processes and waste management. Fresh wastes from our factory are processed and used as cattle fodder in the surrounding villages, which helps the local farmers and reduces waste. It also includes recyclable packaging materials and water conservation methods; over 70% of the used water is recycled.

    All our facilities have been certified for HACCP, FSSC 22000, and Organic certifications, epitomizing our quality and natural goodness. We pioneered the ‘steamed snack’ category and for this innovation, we received global recognition. Today, YCook products are available in 15 countries around the world and 20 states across India, with innovative offerings such as the “Fire Kissed Corn Ribs” showcased at SIAL Paris. This vertically integrated model ensures operational efficiency and also supports sustainable agriculture that enables us to offer consistently high-quality healthy snacks for our customers.

    Mr. Swahar: With such emerging trends, we are well-positioned to take advantage of these. Our whole product range is clean-label, free from allergens, and vegan-friendly. Innovation is key for us, working to create new products that would fit these very particular eating styles and align with consumer needs for healthier and more transparent food. This helps place YCook in the important position of trend leader growth and loyalty among consumers with its residue-free and plant-based snacks.

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    StartupTalky: What tools and technologies are most important to your production process, and how do they enhance product quality?

    Mr. Swahar: Sterilization is a basic element of our production technology. We preserve the quality and nutrition of our products naturally, without preservatives, by removing air and steaming the produce. Modern packaging technologies for extending shelf life and preserving freshness are also employed. These tools, coupled with tight quality control, mean that every product that leaves the walls of YCook meets the highest standards of health and taste. As our dedicated Quality Control and Assurance department continuously monitors every aspect of the production process, from the pH and temperature of water during the initial wash to final product quality.

    StartupTalky: With a growing emphasis on nutrition, what role do you see Y-Cook playing in educating consumers about healthy eating and making nutritious food more accessible?

    Mr. Swahar: YCook is keen on offering healthy foods while still creating awareness among consumers about the importance of healthy eating. A recent study by NielsenIQ shows that 64% of global consumers are actively trying to eat healthier, while 49% consider health and wellness when deciding on their food purchases. Our dedication to promoting healthy eating is further demonstrated through innovation. For instance, the global healthy snacks market is likely to expand by 6.6% CAGR between 2021 and 2028.

    Our products are available in 15 countries and 20 states across India, making healthy food options widely accessible. This expansion supports a growing demand for nutritious snacks, a market expected to reach $32.88 billion by 2027, with Asia-Pacific as one of the fastest-growing regions.

    We engage our consumers through different platforms, creating awareness of residue-free food with minimal processing, which is healthy and beneficial for one’s overall health. We help professionals and parents by making healthy food choices faster and more readily available. We believe that by making healthy food choices more convenient, we can contribute to a healthier society.

    StartupTalky: What advice do you have for new entrepreneurs in the food technology industry?

    Mr. Swahar: We would advise the new entrepreneur never to stop innovating, nor to compromise on quality. First, understand the market and be prepared to evolve with the changing consumer preferences. Developing a strong, motivated team is of paramount importance, hence, the sustainability focus is a key lever to success. Success in the food technology industry comes from a commitment to constant improvement and a passion for creating products that have positive impacts on people’s lives.

    StartupTalky: What are Y-Cook’s future goals for product expansion and reaching new markets, and how do you plan to achieve them?

    Mr. Swahar: YCook is very ambitious about the future. We will extend our line of products with further innovative snacks that are farm-traceable, and residue-free, and continue to reach new global markets where demand for clean-labeled healthy snacks is arising. We plan to extend our reach into additional international markets beyond our current presence in 15 countries. We will achieve this by further investing in R&D, strengthening the supply chain, and leveraging emerging trends for sustainability for business growth and expanded reach.

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  • Rohan Ganapathy, CEO & CTO of Bellatrix Aerospace, on How They’re Leading Innovations in Sustainable Space Technology

    In this exclusive interaction with StartupTalky, Rohan Ganapathy, Co-Founder, CEO, and CTO of Bellatrix Aerospace, discusses how the company is leading advancements in sustainable space technology. Bellatrix, which began with a vision to combat climate change, has grown into a pioneer in satellite propulsion and in-space mobility solutions. Ganapathy shares insights on their innovative technologies, like the water-powered Microwave Plasma Thruster, their collaboration with ISRO, and how they’re driving cost-efficient, eco-friendly innovations that are shaping the future of the satellite industry.

    StartupTalky: What inspired you to start Bellatrix Aerospace, and how has your mission evolved since then?

    Mr. Ganapathy: Bellatrix Aerospace started when we were still in college and interested in space exploration. Set out on a vision to solve climate change by developing water-based satellite propulsion to reduce the cost of transportation in space. Our mission to remain cost-efficient and sustainable has remained. Now we have evolved into In-Space Mobility solution provider for all classes of satellites and continue to develop cutting-edge technologies.

    StartupTalky: Briefly highlight Bellatrix Aerospace’s key technologies and what makes them unique.

    Mr. Ganapathy: Chemical Propulsion:

    • Green Mono-Propellent Thruster (Rudra Series): Sustainable and highly performant. We have developed fuel and catalysts in-house that are green and sustainable.
    • Nano thruster: World’s smallest thrusters, smaller than a coin. Based on nanofabrication, this thruster is designed to be compatible for CubeSats up to 12 U. Volume and power efficiency.

    Electric Propulsion:

    • Hall Effect Thruster (Arka Series): Based on Hall effect technology, the Arka series can be compatible with satellites from 50kg class to 5000 kg. To avoid a single-point failure due to heating issues in the cathode, we have developed a heater-less hollow cathode-based hall effect thruster.
    • Microwave Plasma Thruster (Jal Series): The world’s first thruster with water as a fuel,  designed for 1000Kg+ class satellites and reduces cost for the satellite owner significantly due to water used as the fuel.

    StartupTalky: How has your partnership with ISRO impacted Bellatrix’s technological advancements and growth? 

    Mr. Ganapathy: Bellatrix was the first space tech to be awarded a developmental contract by the ISRO to develop an electric propulsion system that uses water as fuel. This collaboration highlighted the startup’s credibility and the promise of its technology. By teaming up with ISRO, Bellatrix accessed crucial resources,  knowledge, and infrastructure, which sped up their research and development.

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    StartupTalky: What steps is Bellatrix taking to contribute to sustainable space technology, and what are your future goals in this area?

    Mr. Ganapathy: In chemical propulsion, hydrazine fuel used traditionally is considered extremely toxic requires a specialized condition to handle and it’s unsustainable, we have developed our in-house green fuel to replace hydrazine and deliver better performance. We are doubling down on this technology to develop components to cater to varied demands in the market.

    StartupTalky: How does your Satellite as a Service (SaaS) solution address current challenges in the satellite industry? 

    Mr. Ganapathy: A satellite needs to travel from the deployed orbit to its desired orbit to start its operations, it’s like the last mile connectivity. Without the Satellite as a Service solution, the satellite needs to take additional fuel to do the last mile operations, which increases the overall mass and size of the satellite, thereby significant additional costs for the satellite owner/operator and adding complexity to the mission operations.

    With the Satellite as a Service solution, the satellites are onboarded in the orbital transfer vehicle, which transfers them to the desired orbit, saving the cost for the satellite operator. Additionally, the vehicle could act as a satellite body and host payloads of the customer and run demonstration operations or short-term operations required, thereby saving a huge amount of cost and time for the operator.

    Mr. Ganapathy: Key trends shaping the future of space exploration and satellite technology are:

    • In-Space Mobility Solutions: With the rapid growth of satellites, there are crucial gaps in the market for in-space mobility. So, technological advancements in satellite propulsion systems that are greener, more efficient, deliver high performance, reliable, cost-effective, and with low lead times are shaping satellite technology and its outcomes.
    • In-Space Manufacturing: At a global level, there are startups innovating to leverage the space conditions for manufacturing specific materials that can benefit our planet. Manufacturing the same materials by replicating the space conditions here on Earth is very challenging and has significant overhead and operational costs compared to doing it in space.
    • Space Situation Awareness: Monitoring the ever-growing volume of satellites in space to avoid collisions and to protect the satellites from space debris is of key importance for sustainable space operations.

    StartupTalky: How does Bellatrix’s large propulsion test facility benefit your R&D and product innovation efforts? 

    Mr. Ganapathy: Space conditions are harsh, and once a satellite is in space, from Earth we have very limited control to rectify a problem or issue. So, the solution requires extremely stringent quality testing before it’s sent to space. So, a large test facility helps in fast iterations by replicating space conditions for testing, which significantly benefits R&D and product innovation.

    StartupTalky: How has the funding from prominent investors helped advance Bellatrix’s technology and operations?

    Mr. Ganapathy: The funding has enabled us to iterate fast by acquiring the necessary tools to set up lab and testing facilities; thereby, we were able to innovate and develop four product lines to cover all satellite classes and space-qualified technologies. Prominent investors’ confidence also helps in improving our trust and reliability in the market.

    StartupTalky: What are the goals in line for Bellatrix and how do you plan to continue driving innovation in space technology?

    Mr. Ganapathy: We have four propulsion product lines and satellite as a service product. We have space-qualified two of our product lines. Our short-term goal is to space-qualify all our propulsion and satellite-as-a-service product lines by next year. And, we are working on a few customer orders, expanding our operations to the US  and EU soon to penetrate deep into the market. 

    We have solutions for all classes of satellites, and our long-term goal is to become a trustworthy and reliable player for in-space mobility solutions among both government and commercial customers at a global level. We are working on a few other areas and planning to announce them once we have passed a certain qualification stage.

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