Madhya Pradesh Startup Summit Highlights India's Innovation Legacy

The Madhya Pradesh Startup Summit 2026 highlighted India's rich legacy of innovation and the vital role of startups in economic growth. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav praised the contributions of Indian scientists and emphasized the government's commitment to fostering research and entrepreneurship. The summit showcased innovative solutions, including a low-cost harvesting machine, and aimed to position Madhya Pradesh as a key player in India's startup ecosystem. With a focus on collaboration among government, entrepreneurs, and investors, the event is set to drive inclusive growth and future-ready initiatives.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 12, 2026, 15:52 IST

Madhya Pradesh Startup Summit 2026

Bhopal, Jan 12: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav emphasized the importance of India's historical contributions to innovation during the Madhya Pradesh Startup Summit & Ecosystem Awards 2026 held at Ravindra Bhavan, Bhopal. He pointed out the crucial role that startups play in advancing the nation towards its goal of becoming the leading global economy.

In his address, Dr. Yadav acknowledged the often-overlooked achievements of Indian scientists and commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his initiatives aimed at enhancing research and entrepreneurship.

He highlighted the pioneering work of Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose, who in the late 1800s proved that plants possess life and sensitivity, a concept now supported by modern gastography that reveals plants respond to stimuli at frequencies 10,000 times greater than previously understood.

Dr. Yadav also mentioned Bose's 1895 demonstration of microwaves in Kolkata, which later inspired Marconi's Nobel Prize-winning work, as well as early concepts of semiconductors. He expressed disappointment that these innovations were neglected by governments after Independence due to limited resources.

"The nation is undergoing significant transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership," Dr. Yadav stated, urging recognition for the PM's efforts in promoting research and startups, including a program initiated in Indore in 2022.

He showcased a notable startup that has created an affordable machine capable of harvesting an acre of crops in just one hour for Rs 10, utilizing a mini-tractor operated via a TV screen, addressing both environmental and agricultural challenges.

Dr. Yadav expressed optimism that India, currently the fourth-largest economy, is on track to become the third and eventually the first.

Chief Secretary Anurag Jain praised the state's proactive approach to fostering innovation and building a supportive ecosystem, stating, "Madhya Pradesh's commitment to innovation, business facilitation, and inclusive growth is establishing it as a significant player in India's startup landscape."

MSME Minister Chetanya Kahsya lauded the summit's interactive nature, noting, "Events like this encourage collaboration among government, entrepreneurs, and investors, propelling Madhya Pradesh's rise as a startup hub."

The two-day summit, driven by the Madhya Pradesh Startup Policy 2025, has gathered innovators, investors, and ecosystem leaders to promote inclusive and future-oriented growth.