The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has showcased India’s expanding hydrogen innovation ecosystem through a one-day exhibition in New Delhi, highlighting startup-driven solutions across the green energy value chain.

The event brought together 18 startups working on electrolyser systems, fuel cell technologies, biomass-based hydrogen production, safety sensors, artificial intelligence applications, and hydrogen-based cooking solutions. Officials said the initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between startups, industry, and research institutions.

According to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), India had 249 hydrogen-focused startups as of September 2025, reflecting growing interest in clean energy technologies.

Startup Ecosystem and Technology Development

The exhibition featured companies working across multiple segments of hydrogen production and application. These included electrolyser developers, hydrogen production firms, fuel cell startups, and bio-hydrogen innovators. Some startups also presented drone-based and AI-enabled hydrogen solutions.

Government officials, including the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India Ajay Sood and MNRE Secretary Santosh Sarangi, interacted with participating founders during the event.

Policy Support and Funding Framework

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has launched a scheme for New and Novel Uses of Hydrogen Production and Applications, with ₹100 crore allocated for startup funding under pilot projects. Each startup can receive grants of up to ₹5 crore.

Under the scheme, 111 applications were received following a call for proposals in September 2025. Out of these, 58 startups were shortlisted for evaluation by a project appraisal committee. Final selections are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Growing Focus on Green Hydrogen Development

Officials said the exhibition builds on earlier efforts, including a similar startup showcase held during a research and development conference in New Delhi last year. The current initiative reflects continued focus on developing hydrogen technologies as part of India’s broader clean energy transition.

Government statements indicate that the objective is to support innovation across production, storage, and application of hydrogen, while building a scalable ecosystem for future energy needs.