SHITIJ 2025-26: ICAR IARI Pusa Krishi Opens Registrations for Agri Startup Incubation Program

Pusa Krishi, ICAR-IARI, has opened registrations for its flagship incubation program ‘SHITIJ 2025-26’. The year-long initiative is designed to support early-stage startups in agriculture and allied sectors, providing them a dynamic platform to grow, network and scale.

What Does SHITIJ Offer?

Participants selected for SHITIJ will receive the following benefits:

• Monthly Mentoring Sessions: Regular interactions with industry experts for strategic guidance. These sessions help founders align vision with market realities and refine their business model.

• Technical Expertise: One-on-one technical interactions with IARI scientists. Access in-depth knowledge and research-driven solutions tailored to your startup.

• Business Insights: Personalized sessions with business experts for tailored support. Gain practical, actionable advice on marketing, finance, operations and more.

• IP Support: Guidance on intellectual property and patent-related matters. Learn how to protect your innovation and leverage it for funding and partnerships.

• Investor & Industry Connections: Access to a valuable network of investors and industry leaders. Pitch your ideas to potential investors and collaborate with key industry players.

• Pilot Opportunities: Engage in pilot projects and explore market linkages. Test your solution in real-world conditions and validate its market fit.

• Access to Facilities: Use IARI’s advanced infrastructure and laboratory facilities. Accelerate your R&D with access to state-of-the-art labs, tools and resources.

• Grants & Funding: Assistance in obtaining grants and funding based on performance and innovation potential. Connect with funding schemes and programs that match your stage and sector.

• Validation Support: Get solutions validated with the support of Pusa Krishi’s technical resources. Build credibility and trust by validating your innovation through expert review.

Program Structure

• Phase 1 (15 Days): Technical + Business Mentorship: Startups undergo a rigorous 15-day capacity-building program involving both technical and business mentoring. This phase strengthens domain knowledge and encourages peer learning among cohort members.

• Phase 2 (One Year): Learning + Technical Sessions: After initial training, startups enter a year-long incubation at Pusa Krishi where their progress is closely monitored and supported.

For aspiring agripreneurs, SHITIJ represents a transformative journey with guidance from one of India’s premier agricultural research institutions. With expert mentorship, advanced facilities and strong industry linkages, the program is expected to play a key role in shaping the future of agri-innovation in India.

Interested startups can now apply online through the official portal.