Gujarat is strengthening its defence, aerospace, drone and space startup ecosystem through programmes led by i-Hub Gujarat and deep-tech enablement network SanchiConnect. The initiatives are providing startups with access to mentors, investors, industry representatives and technology showcase platforms, with a focus on moving technologies from development and incubation towards market adoption.
One of the key programmes is TattvaX, an accelerator run by i-Hub Gujarat and SanchiConnect for deep-tech startups working in areas including defence, space, drones and other strategic technologies. The second cohort has focused on technologies such as embedded systems, drone components, edge AI, real-time systems, cybersecurity hardware, sensors, robotics and autonomous systems. The programme offers expert mentorship, go-to-market and regulatory workshops, investor access and opportunities for proof-of-concept and pilot projects with corporates and government agencies.
The ecosystem has also provided startups with opportunities to engage directly with defence and space stakeholders. At the Defence & Space Tech Startup Display Day held in Ahmedabad on June 19, more than 30 startups showcased technologies across areas including UAVs, counter-drone systems, defence communications, surveillance, cybersecurity, satellite technologies, autonomous robotics, advanced materials and AI-based defence applications.
Under SKYTECH INDIA 2026, i-Hub Gujarat and the Knowledge Chamber of Commerce and Industry brought together startups, industry representatives, investors, researchers and experts from the space, aerospace, defence and drone sectors. A mentorship programme connected 30 startups with 35 domain experts from organisations including DRDO and ISRO for sector-specific guidance.
The programmes are also placing greater emphasis on industry engagement and technology validation. During the second TattvaX cohort, more than 20 industry representatives participated in a two-day Demo Day, giving startups opportunities to understand market requirements, refine their technologies and explore potential partnerships.
Gujarat’s wider policy environment is also supporting development in strategic technologies. The Gujarat Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2026–31 includes a ₹1,000-crore Swadeshi Anusandhan Fund to support indigenous technology development and research in strategic and emerging areas, including defence and space technologies. The policy also aims to support more than 100 high-impact research projects annually.
Through these programmes and policy measures, Gujarat is building connections between startups, government, academia, investors and industry. The focus is on helping deep-tech companies progress from technology development and proof-of-concept stages towards pilot projects, commercialisation and wider deployment in defence, aerospace, space and related strategic sectors.