Coronavirus: DPIIT, Startup India seek innovative solutions from startups

“Help us fight the COVID-19 hurdle together by participating in the United Against COVID-19 Innovation Challenge,” Startup India said in a tweet

Startup India is an initiative of the DPIIT to promote innovation in the country.
It said that the challenge was open to all startups, companies, and innovators – whose innovation can plug the gap between the demand and supply of essential medical items to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants can also innovate technology for applications such as motion tracking, geo-fencing and fake news detection.
“As the world is currently looking at a serious healthcare challenge caused by the pandemic, DPIIT with Startup India is scouting for innovative technologies and solutions for precautionary as well as treatment-related interventions.

“We are building a one-stop repository of innovative solutions for ready access by the government and the private sector for further development and deployment,” Startup India said.

It also said the top solutions would be referred to the government and private stakeholders for further funding and deployment.
The solutions will also be published on the Invest India Business Immunity Platform, an interactive resource for investors, the business community, and other stakeholders to access all relevant information about India’s fight against COVID-19.
Citing examples, it said solutions can be in the areas of low-cost masks. which can capture virus from the air and absorb respiratory droplets; cost-effective thermal scanning devices and rapid diagnostic kits; critical care equipment, including portable oxygenators and home-based ventilators to monitor and control the spread of the new coronavirus, among others.
In another development, BYD Company, headquartered in China, has unveiled the largest face mask plant, aimed at meeting the demand in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.