The two day Research Industry Startup Entrepreneurship RISE Conclave 2026 concluded at the Chennai Trade Centre on Saturday, bringing together leaders from academia, research institutions, industry and the startup ecosystem to reinforce innovation led growth aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
RISE 2026 represented a strategic convergence of research, industry, startups and entrepreneurship, identified as four critical pillars for transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. The Conclave was inaugurated on February 14, 2026 by the Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh, who underscored the pivotal role of startups in driving innovation and strengthening the research industry ecosystem. He also inaugurated the Startup Expo and interacted with participating entrepreneurs.
A major highlight of the event was the Startup Expo featuring more than 100 startups associated with technologies developed by CSIR laboratories including CSIR CLRI, CSIR CECRI and CSIR SERC. The Expo showcased innovations across advanced materials, electrochemical technologies, infrastructure systems, sustainable manufacturing and deep tech solutions. The exhibits reflected the expanding impact of CSIR’s technology transfer and commercialisation initiatives in translating laboratory research into market ready applications.
The Conclave hosted thematic sessions designed to deepen cross sectoral collaboration. A panel discussion on science communication focused on the importance of effective outreach in fostering scientific temper and enhancing public engagement with research and innovation. Another panel discussion on academy institute industry partnership examined collaborative frameworks to accelerate technology translation, commercialisation and the development of industry ready solutions, strengthening the national innovation ecosystem.
Industry talks by experts from diverse sectors offered insights into systems engineering, product development, engineered construction solutions and entrepreneurial journeys. Speakers emphasised the need for sustained collaboration between research institutions and industry, and called for integrated innovation ecosystems to advance India’s scientific and technological capabilities.
During the valedictory session, Dr P Thanikaivelan, Director CSIR CLRI, Dr N Anandavalli, Director CSIR SERC, and Dr K Ramesha, Director CSIR CECRI, felicitated award winning startup teams and student participants. Dr K J Sreeram, Outstanding Scientist and former Director CSIR CLRI, delivered the vote of thanks.
The successful conclusion of RISE Conclave 2026 marked a significant step toward fostering stronger partnerships among research institutions, industry and startups. The deliberations and collaborations are expected to accelerate technology commercialisation, strengthen entrepreneurship and reinforce innovation driven growth in alignment with national development priorities.
