Jaipur, August 2026: Two founders of startups incubated at Atal Incubation Centre–JK Lakshmipat University (AIC-JKLU) were honoured by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan on July 31 after being selected for the Grassroots Innovator Recognition 2026 for developing impactful innovations in assistive technology and sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic.
Neha Solanki, founder of Unnati Adaptive Devices, and Chirag M G, founder of Sunbird Straws, were among 26 innovators from across the country recognised through a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process that assessed originality, grassroots relevance, societal impact, scalability and the ability to address real-world challenges.
Solanki’s Jodhpur-based startup develops affordable adaptive equipment for children with disabilities, addressing a critical gap in India’s assistive technology sector. Its flagship product, the Buddy Chair, provides postural support, stability and comfort for children aged four to 12 during learning, therapy, meals and other daily activities.
The startup is also developing Freedom Ride, an adaptive stroller for older children, and plans to expand its work through customised assistive devices, caregiver support and awareness programmes for families and therapy centres.
“Receiving this recognition from the Hon’ble President of India is an incredible honour. The early support from AIC-JKLU played a vital role in helping us transform an idea into a solution that today supports hundreds of children and their families,” said Neha Solanki.
Sunbird Straws manufactures drinking straws from naturally dried coconut leaves and other agricultural residue through a chemical-free process, providing an eco-friendly alternative to plastic straws. The venture also creates value by utilising agricultural waste that might otherwise be discarded or burned while generating livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The company is now exploring the use of additional agricultural materials, including pineapple and pandanus leaves, to further strengthen its portfolio of sustainable products.
“This recognition reinforces our commitment to developing practical and scalable alternatives to single-use plastic while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities at the grassroots level,” said Chirag M G.
Commenting on the achievement, Nidhi Kachhawa, Chief Executive Officer, AIC-JKLU, said, “This national recognition reflects the immense potential of grassroots innovation in solving real societal and environmental challenges. We are proud to see our incubated startups being recognised at the highest level and remain committed to supporting entrepreneurs who create meaningful and scalable impact.”
AIC-JKLU will continue supporting both ventures in their next phase of product development, strategic partnerships and market expansion while strengthening its commitment to fostering inclusive innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurship.
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