The National Agri Start-up Expo (NASE-2025) commenced with great enthusiasm at the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) in Dharwad, marking a significant push for innovation in the agricultural sector. The two-day event, inaugurated on Friday, brings together the brightest minds in agri-tech to celebrate ideas and drive economic growth.
Government Backing for Agricultural Innovation
Inaugurating the expo, Union Agriculture Ministry Commissioner PK Singh declared the present era as one of celebrating ideas and transforming them into tangible economic value. He emphasized that India's rapid progress is fueled by cutting-edge technologies that create social impact and improve livelihoods. Singh highlighted the substantial support extended by the Union government to startups and noted that expos like NASE provide a dynamic platform for students to explore, experiment, and pursue their ideas with determination.
Soil Health: The Foundation Beyond Farming
A key highlight of the event was the focus on the critical importance of soil health. Dr. GS Dasog explained the multifaceted role of soil, which extends far beyond agriculture. "Soil filters water, acts as a carbon storehouse, and nurtures biodiversity," he stated. He issued a stark warning, noting that this vital resource is under severe threat as 95% of the global population depends on it for food. Dr. Dasog stressed that soil's non-agricultural properties are equally crucial for building sustainable and healthy cities and underlined the essential link between innovative startups and improving soil health.
UAS Dharwad: A Hub for Agri-Entrepreneurship
UAS Vice-Chancellor PL Patil announced that NASE-2025 is the first such expo to be held among State Agricultural Universities (SAUs). He expressed confidence that with rapid technological interventions, agriculture is advancing swiftly, playing a pivotal role in ensuring both food and national security. Patil boldly stated that India is not far from becoming the world's food basket.
Showcasing the university's commitment, Patil shared that the Krishik Agri Business Incubator (Krishik ABI) at UAS, Dharwad, has already supported 136 startups with financial assistance worth Rs 14 crore. He urged organizers to give careful consideration to all ideas presented during the student hackathon, a core component of the event.
The expo, organized by Krishik Agri Business Incubator—a knowledge partner for RKVY-RAFTAAR under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare—features a comprehensive agenda. The schedule includes:
- An exhibition showcasing innovations.
- A student hackathon to solve pressing agricultural challenges.
- B2B and B2C interaction sessions for networking and business growth.
A total of 150 agri and allied sector startups from across India are participating, making it a vibrant national congregation. The inaugural ceremony also saw the release of a souvenir and the launch of the KAN-II Cohort, further cementing the event's role in fostering the next generation of agri-entrepreneurs.
