MoPNG Energizes Innovation at Startup Mahakumbh 2025: Key Insights for the Future of Energy in India

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) is making waves at Startup Mahakumbh 2025, happening from April 3-5 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

This year, 32 startups supported by public sector undertakings (PSUs) are showcasing their innovations. These companies have built strong frameworks for mentoring, funding, and nurturing new ideas. For instance, ONGC’s startup fund has surged in value by 450% over the past five years. One standout is WellRx, ONGC’s first oilfield startup, which has now expanded its services to more than 120 countries.

IndianOil is also contributing significantly. It has invested in 42 startups through its IndS_UP initiative, resulting in 86 registered intellectual properties and creating 635 jobs. Oil India has focused on cutting-edge projects like Caliche Private Limited, which tackles biochemical challenges in oil wells, and Carbonation India Private Limited, dedicated to sustainable waste management in the sector.

Industry experts from PSU companies are present at Startup Mahakumbh 2025, providing valuable insights to participating startups. Their experience covers critical areas like research monetization, electric vehicle (EV) innovation, and investment strategies. The chairman of ONGC even spoke at the opening session, highlighting the importance of these discussions.

This year’s theme, “Startup India @ 2047: Unfolding the Bharat Story,” reflects a commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. Following a successful inaugural event attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the participation has skyrocketed to over 3,000 startups across 11 themes, with more than 1,000 investors and incubators involved. This diverse gathering creates a vibrant space for collaboration and growth.

MoPNG consistently champions innovation, as evident during India Energy Week 2025. The ‘Avinya’25 Energy Startup Challenge recognized startups that are advancing CO₂ capture, ESG solutions, and renewable energy technologies. Meanwhile, the ‘Vasudha – Oil and Gas Startup Challenge’ spotlighted international startups that are using AI to innovate in the oil and gas industry.

Other PSUs are also stepping up to promote innovation. For example, EIL’s EngSUI initiative has invested ₹35 crore in 31 startups focusing on projects related to industrial enzymes and compostable polymers. HPCL’s HP Udgam program has provided seed funding of ₹35 crore to 29 startups, including Maraal Aerospace, known for developing solar-powered drones. BPCL’s Ankur program has funded 30 startups with ₹28 crore, assisting them in raising $132 million in total and achieving a cumulative valuation of around $300 million. GAIL’s Pankh initiative is backing startups in energy, logistics, and industrial technology, showcasing solutions in pipeline repair and biogas generation.

These collective efforts underscore MoPNG and its PSUs’ dedication to creating a sustainable, tech-driven energy landscape, empowering startups to drive India’s energy transition and innovation efforts.

Check out this related article: India Honors ‘Bharat Kumar’ Manoj Kumar with a Heartfelt Farewell: A Tribute to a Cinema Legend