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Key Points

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has launched Avinya'26, India’s third energy startup challenge. The competition focuses on innovative solutions across biofuels, hydrogen, and renewables. Winners receive cash prizes, mentorship, and exposure at India Energy Week 2026. Union Minister Hardeep Puri emphasized the initiative’s role in boosting India’s energy independence.

Key Points: India Launches Avinya'26 Energy Startup Challenge with Rs 5 Lakh Prizes

  • Avinya'26 seeks innovations in hydrocarbons, biofuels, and green energy
  • Winners get Rs 5 lakh and mentorship from industry leaders
  • Startups can showcase solutions at India Energy Week 2026
  • Previous winners include UrjanovaC and Breathe ESG
2 min read

Avinya'26: Third edition of energy startup challenge announced

India's Petroleum Ministry invites startups for Avinya'26, offering cash prizes, mentorship, and a platform at India Energy Week 2026.

"Cash awards, funding opportunities and a spotlight at #IndiaEnergyWeek2026 await the brightest solutions. – Hardeep Puri"

New Delhi, August 15

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has announced Avinya'26, the third edition of the Energy Startup Challenge, on the occasion of India's 79th Independence Day.

The initiative seeks innovative solutions across the entire energy value chain, including hydrocarbons, biofuels, hydrogen, renewables, and green technologies.

According to the government, Avinya'26 is part of their efforts to encourage startups and strengthen the country's energy sector under the Atmanirbhar Bharat framework.

The program invites applications from startups, entrepreneurs, and innovators working on energy-related technologies and processes.

Cash prizes worth over Rs 5 lakh have been earmarked, along with special incentives. Winning ideas will be presented at India Energy Week 2026, besides the winners getting mentoring and networking access to industry leaders for guidance and collaboration.

The winners will may get opportunity to work on proof-of-concept and pilot-level projects.

"Cash awards, funding opportunities and a spotlight at #IndiaEnergyWeek2026 await the brightest solutions. If you have an idea to propel India's energy future? Join the mission today," Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Puri wrote on X, as he announced Avinya'26.

The winner in the previous edition, Avinya'25, was UrjanovaC Pvt Ltd. The runners up were Breathe ESG Private Limited, AgriVijay, Apeiro Energy and UGreen Technology.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priyanka N
While the initiative is good, I hope the selection process will be transparent. Sometimes these government schemes favor established players rather than genuine startups. Also, ₹5 lakh seems too small for energy innovation - should be at least ₹25 lakh.
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Aman W
As someone working in renewable energy, this is exactly what we need! The focus on green technologies and hydrogen is timely. The mentoring from industry leaders could be more valuable than the cash prize itself. Jai Hind! 🙏
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Sarah B
Interesting to see India pushing energy innovation. The inclusion of biofuels and hydrogen shows forward thinking. Would love to see collaboration opportunities with international startups too - energy is a global challenge after all.
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Karthik V
The previous winners list shows good diversity - from ESG to agri-energy solutions. Hope this edition gets even more rural participation. India's energy future lies in decentralized solutions, not just big corporate projects.
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Nisha Z
Great to see this announced on Independence Day! 🎉 Perfect timing to inspire young Indians to contribute to nation building through energy innovation. The proof-of-concept opportunity is what excites me most - ideas need implementation support.

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