AI adoption rises in CSN startups

Lokmat News Network

Raj Patil

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

AI is not new for startups; over 45% of them have already adopted AI.

AI adoption is no longer new for startups in CSN. Currently, over 45% of startups have integrated AI into their operations. As the city and region emerge as both the EV and industrial capital, young entrepreneurs are increasingly embracing AI. Startups incubated at Magic Incubation, GEC, MIT, and Atal Incubation are leading the trend, with over 140 startups already working on or adopting AI solutions.

-----

AI footprint expands in CSN’s startup ecosystem

Applications are particularly prominent in agriculture and healthcare, including crop monitoring, diagnostics, and data management. AI startups are also developing automation and machine learning solutions, though large-scale integration is still evolving.

-----

Graduates drift to jobs; AI startups struggle for scale

Most fintech startups are leveraging AI-driven digital tools, and digital adoption in the Marathwada region remains notably high. However, advanced AI penetration and integration remain limited.

- Prasad Koikil, Director, Magic Incubation.

-----

AI Startups Face Guidance Gap

“Currently, nearly 45% of graduates from the dental and allied sectors are turning to jobs or business due to a lack of proper mentorship. At the same time, AI startups are facing significant hurdles due to inadequate guidance.

- Amit Ranjan, CEO, AIC BAMU.

-----

Applications of AI in Startups

• AI Election Biometric Solutions | Founder: Milind Wankhede (CSN)

AI-based iris and biometric systems for fake voter detection, election audits, and secure voter verification.

• SID Clinic | Founder: Akshar Parmar (CSN)

Virtual dental clinic app providing real-time self-assessment of oral health issues and suggesting suitable dental solutions for users and their families.

-----

AI Integration in Startups: 5 Key Areas

1. Market Validation – AI-driven research and competitor analysis.

2. Product Innovation – Automation and predictive intelligence.

3. Customer Growth – Targeted marketing and lead scoring.

4. Operational Efficiency – Workflow and demand automation.

5. Strategic Scaling – Data insights for expansion and risk control.

-----

Schemes for AI Startups

• Rs 10 Lakh Grant for DPIIT-Registered AI Startups

Provides Rs 10 lakh grant along with incubator-led mentorship for R&D, product design, and validation.

• GENESIS Scheme – MeitY

Offers Rs 10 lakh grant and mentorship from government-recognised incubators to support AI innovation and growth.