DPIIT and Ather Energy Ink MoU to Boost India’s EV and Deep-Tech Startup Ecosystem

In a move to accelerate India’s clean mobility transformation and strengthen its advanced manufacturing base, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian electric vehicle manufacturer Ather Energy Limited.

The partnership, formalised under the government-led Build in Bharat initiative, is spearheaded by the Startup Policy Forum (SPF), a network of over 50 innovation-driven startups. The MoU outlines collaborative efforts to foster deep-tech innovation and create a more enabling environment for startups across India’s electric vehicle (EV) value chain.

The MoU was signed in the presence of DPIIT Joint Secretary Sanjiv Singh and Ather Energy Co-founder and CEO Tarun Mehta.

“The electric mobility sector in India is entering a transformative phase. Through this partnership with Ather Energy, we aim to catalyse the development of an enabling environment where startups can contribute meaningfully to EV manufacturing, battery innovation, and clean energy solutions,” said Shri Sanjiv Singh during the signing ceremony.

Tarun Mehta echoed the potential of such a collaboration, stating, “We are happy to collaborate with DPIIT to strengthen support systems for hardware and deep-tech startups. With policy support and stronger industry participation, this initiative can help founders tackle core technology challenges and scale high-quality products from India.”

Strategic Focus Areas

Under the agreement, DPIIT and Ather Energy will offer strategic mentorship to deep-tech startups, helping them overcome core technology challenges and scale effectively. This aims to strengthen innovation in EV manufacturing and related technologies.

The collaboration will also support infrastructure and ecosystem development for EV-focused startups. This includes access to facilities, industry connections, and technical resources essential for product development and market entry.

As part of national initiatives, both parties will co-develop programs like the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge to promote hardware-led innovation in India. These programs will identify and support high-impact solutions across clean mobility and advanced manufacturing.

Talent development is another key area, with joint skilling initiatives planned to build a future-ready workforce for the sector. The partnership will also ensure startup participation in events like Startup Mahakumbh, offering greater visibility and industry engagement.

Additionally, on-ground exposure visits will be organised to give entrepreneurs practical insights into EV operations and manufacturing, further bridging the gap between innovation and execution.

Shweta Rajpal Kohli, President and CEO of the Startup Policy Forum, added, “This partnership brings to life the Startup Policy Forum’s Build in Bharat initiative. Unlocking the potential of India's manufacturing sector through collaboration is key to building a globally competitive innovation ecosystem.”

The MoU marks a significant step in aligning India’s startup movement with its industrial and climate goals. It is expected to boost indigenous manufacturing capabilities and to support the creation of high-value employment and scalable deep-tech ventures.