ANRF Launches MAHA Water Mission with Up To ₹20 Crore Funding for Startups, MSMEs and Research Consortia

India is stepping up its efforts to tackle water-related challenges with the launch of the MAHA Water Mission by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). Launched by Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh, the initiative aims to bring together researchers, startups, industry players, and government agencies to develop practical solutions for India's growing water needs.

As part of the mission, selected multidisciplinary teams will be eligible for funding of up to ₹20 crore. The financial support can be used for technology development, field trials, validation, and large-scale deployment of innovative water management solutions.

Mission Focuses on Solving India's Water Challenges

The MAHA Water Mission has been designed as a national platform to accelerate innovation in the water sector. It encourages collaboration between universities, research institutions, startups, MSMEs, national laboratories, and industry partners to develop solutions that can be implemented on the ground.

The mission will focus on five priority areas: water resource assessment and sustainable management, drinking water, water quality and ecological health, water-use efficiency and circular economy, and climate resilience.

The broader objective is to move promising ideas beyond the laboratory stage and support their adoption in real-world applications, helping strengthen India's long-term water security.

Startups and MSMEs Invited to Participate

Alongside the launch, ANRF issued an open call inviting startups and MSMEs to submit proposals for product and prototype development under the mission.

The event also saw the signing of an MoU between the Department of Water Resources and the Department of Space/ISRO, highlighting the government's focus on leveraging space technology for water management. In addition, the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari, Citizen Tracking and Reporting (JSJB-CTR) Portal and App were launched to encourage public participation in water conservation efforts.

ANRF Expanding Research Opportunities

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Jitendra Singh said ANRF is working to make research funding more accessible by creating opportunities for innovators, startups, universities, and smaller enterprises across the country.

He noted that ANRF has already launched MAHA missions in several strategic sectors, including electric vehicles, drones, medical technologies, 6G communications, and water, with the goal of connecting scientific research to practical outcomes.

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Conclusion

The MAHA Water Mission reflects India's growing emphasis on innovation-led solutions to address critical resource challenges. By providing funding, fostering collaboration, and supporting the journey from research to deployment, the initiative aims to create scalable solutions that can improve water management while strengthening the country's innovation ecosystem.

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