From food dryers to AI grain analysers, young entrepreneurs present innovations at Raipur conclave
From AI grain analysers to advanced food dryers, young innovators presented groundbreaking agricultural solutions at the Raipur conclave.
In a significant boost to grassroots innovation, young entrepreneurs showcased a variety of groundbreaking technological solutions at the Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Conclave 2026 held in Raipur on Tuesday. The event, hosted at Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, served as a platform for innovators focusing on agriculture, food processing, and small business solutions.
Revolutionizing Food Processing
One of the standout inventions at the conclave was an advanced food dryer designed to empower small-scale businesses and women-led self-help groups. Developed by Milind Vasnik, founder of Future Leaf Technology, the Air Leaf machine addresses the critical challenges of traditional open-air drying methods.
Traditionally, drying items like papad, pickles, and fruits under the sun exposes them to dust, insects, and inconsistent quality due to weather changes. The Air Leaf innovation uses energy-efficient heating and air circulation technology to ensure even drying. This allows entrepreneurs to maintain product quality and work continuously, regardless of weather conditions.
AI-Powered Grain Analysis
Another major highlight was Grain Scope, an AI-based grain analyser developed by Sanskar, founder of Grain Cart. This device has revolutionized how the quality of rice and wheat is assessed.
Key features of the Grain Scope include:
- High Precision: Offers 99% accuracy in testing.
- Instant Reporting: Delivers detailed reports via WhatsApp within just 10 seconds.
- Comprehensive Data: Analyzes grain size, impurities, damage, color, and broken grains.
- Variety Detection: Can identify if different varieties of rice have been mixed into a sample.
The system requires only a small sample of 10 to 50 grams and does not require a separate application to function. Since its inception in 2022, the company has collaborated with prestigious institutions like IIT Kharagpur and NRDC, serving over 300 industry customers.
Government Support for Startups
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai attended the conclave to interact with the young minds behind these inventions. He highlighted the state's commitment to fostering a startup ecosystem, specifically mentioning the recently inaugurated Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Incubation Centre.
"This facility will provide a space for startups to work on new ideas. It will benefit the agriculture sector in the state as well as the country,"the Chief Minister stated.
Addressing the importance of the agricultural sector, the Chief Minister noted that Chhattisgarh, often referred to as the "rice bowl of India," is dedicated to providing superior facilities and prices to its farmers to ensure their prosperity.