Introduction: A Conclave for Innovation

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), operating under the aegis of NITI Aayog, successfully hosted its primary annual gathering for the incubation ecosystem, titled AIM SUMVAAD. Held in New Delhi, this significant event brought together policymakers, investors, and representatives from over 100 Atal Incubation Centres. The conclave served as a platform to launch critical initiatives aimed at structuring and assessing India's rapidly growing startup landscape, with a focus on moving towards Viksit Bharat @2047.

Key Facts: AIM SUMVAAD 2026
Event Name

AIM SUMVAAD

Organized By

Atal Innovation Mission (NITI Aayog)

Key Launch

National Incubator Assessment Framework

Deep-Tech Target

30% of all Startups

Current Ecosystem

Over 2 Lakh Startups

Major Announcements & Initiatives

1. National Incubator Assessment Framework

Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Science & Technology, announced the indicators for this new framework. It is a joint initiative involving AIM, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and DPIIT. The goal is to create a centralized digital repository to bring transparency and benchmarking to the incubation sector.

2. Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2026

The event also marked the launch of the 2026 edition of the Youth Co:Lab, an initiative designed to encourage young entrepreneurs to solve social and economic challenges.

3. Focus on Bio-Economy and Deep Tech

The Minister highlighted the Budget 2026-27 focus on Bio-manufacturing and Bio-pharma. Additionally, Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood (PSA) emphasized that for India to become a developed nation, at least 30% of its startups must be in the Deep-Tech sector.

Statistical Milestones
  • The Indian startup ecosystem has exploded from just 350 startups to over 2 Lakh startups today.
  • 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) have been established to take innovation to every district.
  • AIM-supported incubators constitute about 10% of the country's total incubation network.
  • These initiatives have generated more than 21,000 direct jobs.
Official Statement

"What began with just 350 startups has today expanded into a vibrant ecosystem of over 2 lakh startups... driving a fundamental shift in national mindset where livelihood is no longer limited to government employment but increasingly driven by innovation." — Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology.

Source Information

For detailed information, please refer to the official press release from the Press Information Bureau:

Click here to read the Official Press Release
AIM SUMVAAD 2026: NITI Aayog Launches New Incubator Assessment Framework - Image 1

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What is AIM SUMVAAD?
It is the flagship annual incubator conclave organized by the Atal Innovation Mission (NITI Aayog).
Q2. What major framework was announced during the event?
The National Incubator Assessment Framework Indicators were announced to benchmark incubators.
Q3. Which departments are collaborating on the new Assessment Framework?
It is a joint initiative of AIM, DBT, DST, and DPIIT.
Q4. What is the target percentage for Deep-Tech startups suggested by the PSA?
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood suggested that 30% of startups should be in the Deep-Tech sector.
Q5. How many Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) are currently operational?
There are nearly 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs across the country.
Q6. What specific challenge for youth was launched at the conclave?
The Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2026 was launched.
Q7. Who is the Mission Director of the Atal Innovation Mission?
Dr. Deepak Bagla is the Mission Director of AIM.
Q8. According to the Minister, how many startups are there in India's ecosystem now?
The ecosystem has expanded to over 2 Lakh startups.