Industry & public-sector challenges
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Opportunity board
Challenges looking for capability.
These are the official problem statements supplied by G-TEC, organised by sector so relevant experts and solution providers can identify where they may contribute.
Bio-degradable film for Vegetable cultivation
To replace plastic sheets used in vegetable farming, pest-degradable films are needed to control weeds and enhance water efficiency, improving sustainability in agriculture
Express capabilitySoil Productivity Detection Technology (AI or IoT-based)
A technology to detect soil productivity, particularly those based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) or the Internet of Things (IoT), offers a comprehensive solution for assessing and optimizing soil conditions. This technology would revolutionize agriculture by offering accurate and data-driven insights into soil conditions.
Express capabilitySoil pH Improvement Technique
Increasing the pH of the soil has an impact on the nutrients available to the plants. Research in this area can help identify the optimal pH ranges for different crops and the associated nutrient availability.
Express capabilityPest Management in Organic Farming
Farmers are facing significant challenges in controlling pests while adhering strictly to organic farming practices. The limited availability of effective, eco- friendly pest control solutions often impacts crop yield and quality. There is a growing need for sustainable, non-chemical pest management strategies that are both cost-effective and environmentally safe.
Express capabilityOrganic Fertilizer
The demand for high-quality organic fertilizers is increasing due to the shift towards sustainable agriculture. However, farmers require guidance on selecting suitable organic inputs that enhance soil fertility and improve crop productivity. Standardization, quality assurance, and awareness about application methods remain key areas of concern.
Express capabilityLabor Scarcity & Hand Tools
Finding skilled farm labor at the right time is becoming impossible, causing critical delays that ruin yields. We need to solve this by hacking together better, ergonomic manual tools or building simple local networks to share manpower.
Express capabilityLast-Mile Market Linkage
Smallholder farmers lack the volume to afford direct transport to city markets, forcing them into distress sales at the farm gate. We need to figure out shared logistics or direct-to-consumer models so farmers capture the true retail value of their harvest.
Express capabilityMaking Multi-Cropping Work
Relying on a single organic crop is risky, but managing the harvest and sale of five different crops at once creates massive complexity. We need to design practical ways to aggregate and sell these mixed baskets so natural farming stays financially viable.
Express capabilityKnowledge Gaps, Farm Advisory & Soil Health
Farmers often resort to panic-spraying and blind fertilizer application because they lack real-time, localized soil and weather data. We need to build simple digital or community tools that give them the exact right advice at the right time to stop chemical overuse. Also solve weed management and soil nutrition along these lines.
Express capabilityNavigating High-Value Exports
Growing exotic or organic spices is highly lucrative, but solo smallholders cannot navigate the strict maze of global compliance and traceability alone. We need to simplify the export journey, helping local producers meet international standards and reach premium buyers.
Express capabilityPackaging of liquid fertilizer
Gas production is more, and it is causing the shape to come out of the bottle.
Express capabilityA2 Nutrition Testing in Ghee
Testing the ghee for the presence of A2 nutrition requires specific tests.
Express capabilityMicrobial Testing Centre for the Seafood Industry
They requested to establish a microbial load testing centre specifically for seafood.
Express capabilityDrone R&D challenges: lab access, materials, components like motors, propellers, ESCs
Accessibility to technical labs is poor, making it difficult to perform research and development on drones. The challenges span multiple aspects — from sourcing and experimenting with suitable materials to manufacturing components like frames, motors, propellers, and Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs). The lack of proper infrastructure significantly slows innovation and prototyping
Express capabilityHigh cost of fabrication (laser cutting); need for space and IoT integration
Fabrication of enclosures using laser cutting is currently very expensive. There is a pressing need for dedicated workspace and cost-effective moulding options. Additionally, integrating Internet of Things (IoT) components into the designs remains a technical and financial challenge.
Express capabilityNeed for licensed software (Cadence, Synopsys); semiconductor collaboration
The development and simulation of electronic circuits are hindered by the unavailability of licensed Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software such as Cadence and Synopsys. Without access to these industry standard tools, circuit validation and chip design are not feasible. Furthermore, collaborations with semiconductor companies are necessary to bridge this technology gap.
Express capabilityKnowledge Gaps, Farm Advisory & Soil Health
Farmers often resort to panic-spraying and blind fertilizer application because they lack real-time, localized soil and weather data. We need to build simple digital or community tools that give them the exact right advice at the right time to stop chemical overuse. Also solve weed management and soil nutrition along these lines.
Express capabilityUpcycling virgin fabric scraps by training village women
Despite having ample raw material, sanitization, sorting, and design processes are time-consuming. Market demand is low for sustainable upcycled products. There's a need to enhance creativity, train labor, and boost sustainable product awareness.
Express capabilityUtilization of Bottom Ash and Fly Ash
The waste management process produces residual materials which consist of fly ash, and bottom ash. The client is seeking suggestions for the utilization of fly ash and bottom ash in alternative applications, such as road construction or brick manufacturing
Express capabilityInsufficient Digital Integration
(i) Poor use of AI and data analytics in waste tracking, collection, optimization and facility management. (ii) Limited adoption of smart Bins, route optimization software and block chain for traceability.
Express capabilityValue Addition in De-Oiled Rice Bran
Deoiled Rice Bran is generated as a byproduct of the solvent based extraction process and is abundantly available in India now. Hence the realisable value for it decreased. Hence want to create value for it by further processing the DORB
Express capabilityExtraction of Silica From Rice Husk Ash
Rice Husk Ash is generated as the biproduct of burning rice husk in the boiler which is being sold without realising any value out of it in its current form
Express capabilityMaintaining the Shape of Organic Jaggery
A solution to maintain the shape of organic jaggery at temperatures ranging from 55 to 60 degrees Celsius without adding preservatives, ensuring it retains its form even in high heat conditions.
Express capabilityOrganic product shelf life issues
The primary challenge is extending the shelf life of organic products without compromising quality or safety. Solutions are needed for preservation, packaging, and increasing market penetration.
Express capabilitySaltwater Issue - Corrosion and rusting of equipment
The company is experiencing significant issues with saltwater in its processing plant, which is causing corrosion and rusting of equipment. Despite having installed both a softener plant and a Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant, these measures have not been effective. The primary objective is to meet the standards set by IS 10500 and IS 4251 to ensure that production processes remain uncompromised.
Express capabilityDifficulty in Peeling Shrimp - Developing a food-grade chemical to dissolve collagen protein
There is a need to develop a food-grade chemical that can dissolve the collagen protein which firmly binds the shell and meat, making the peeling process more efficient.
Express capabilityPost-Lethality Recontamination in RTE Products - Controlling biofilm formation on equipment
The company requires a solution to control biofilm formation on equipment, which leads to post lethality recontamination.
Express capabilityLack of Shelf-Life Study on Frozen Shrimp
In India Currently, no regulatory authority has conducted an in-depth shelf-life study on frozen shrimp. While CIFT Cochin has initiated a shelf-life study on frozen fish, there is a need for a comprehensive shelf-life study on IQF frozen raw/cooked shrimp.
Express capabilityPrevention of Black Spot Formation in Shrimp - Seeking a substitute for sodium metabisulphite
The industry is seeking a substitute for sodium metabisulphite to prevent black spot formation. Developed countries have created 4-hexyl resorcinol, but it is not commercially available in the Indian market.
Express capabilityValue-Added Seafoods and Testing Laboratory for ATLP culture Industry
Want innovations in value-added seafood products. Establish standardized testing laboratories.
Express capabilityFresh prawn business: deshelling, shelf life, packaging, transportation
Deshelling of shrimps is a major labor intensive process. There's also a pressing need to increase the shelf life of fresh prawns, along with developing cost effective and reusable cooling agents that do not affect the product's quality. Traditional ice methods are expensive and less efficient during transportation.
Express capabilityTechnology to Increase the Shelf- Life of Vegetables and Fruits
Extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables has the potential to reduce food waste and improve food security. Hence, the development of technology to prolong the shelf life of vegetables would be of great benefit.
Express capabilityFood processing: fruits, spices, rice, cattle food
There is a need to modernize and scale up food processing operations to handle a diverse range of products such as fruits, spices, rice, and cattle feed. This includes upgrading storage, packaging, and quality control infrastructure.
Express capabilityLow-temperature freeze drying of fruits and vegetables
The startup focuses on freeze drying technology at -40°C to lock in moisture. Key challenges include developing effective vacuum packaging techniques and preserving quality during storage and transportation.
Express capabilityFood Processing Unit Modernization: 25 year old food processing unit needs MSME support, national facilitation
Despite decades of operation, the food processing unit hasn't received sufficient support from MSMEs. It seeks comprehensive modernization and facilitation for expansion across India, including import/export planning and market access.
Express capabilityBakery & Food Processing Machinery
The industry is looking to modernize operations by upgrading existing paint technologies and acquiring new machinery suitable for food and bakery production. This includes equipment for mixing, baking, coating, and packaging.
Express capabilityImport and Export and Food Processing
Challenges include regulatory barriers, customs clearance delays, and lack of coordinated logistics. Coupled with food processing, it needs proper supply chain mechanisms and market linkage support.
Express capabilityValue Addition in Cashew Products
There is considerable potential for expanding the range of value-added products. The industry is keen to develop innovations such as oil-less roasted cashews, nutritious energy bars, cashew milk, and cashew butter, and is exploring the adoption of advanced processing methods to create these products.
Express capabilityAwareness and Adoption
The cashew industry faces challenges due to low awareness and limited adoption of modern technologies and best practices, especially among small- scale farmers and processors. This lack of knowledge transfer and support hinders productivity, quality, and overall competitiveness.
Express capabilityEstablishment of a Skill Development Centre
Although Palasa's cashew industry employs a high proportion of women (about 90%), there is a significant shortage of skilled labor. To improve productivity, reliability, and innovation, the establishment of a dedicated skill development center is recommended. This would facilitate training for workers and stimulate growth and empowerment within the sector.
Express capabilityRequirement for Vacuum Sealing Machine for Vegetables
Producers and vendors have expressed the need for vacuum sealing machines to improve the shelf life and freshness of vegetables. Proper packaging solutions are essential to reduce post-harvest losses and maintain product quality during storage and transportation. Affordable and efficient vacuum sealing equipment would significantly support small and medium-scale agri- entrepreneurs.
Express capabilityStopping Post-Harvest Rot
During peak seasons, market gluts cause prices to crash, leaving farmers helpless as their grade-A produce rots in the sun. We need to explore low-cost processing or micro-cooling solutions that give farmers holding power and turn waste into value.
Express capabilityPest Infestation and Shelf-Life Issues in Flower and Vegetable Farming
Flower and vegetable farmers face problems due to pest attacks and short shelf life of their produce. These issues reduce the quality and quantity of crops. Farmers also face losses because flowers and vegetables spoil quickly after harvesting. There is a need for better solutions to control pests and increase the shelf life of the produce.
Express capabilityLimited Value Addition Opportunities for Flowers and Vegetables
Most farmers sell flowers and vegetables as raw products without any processing. Due to lack of technology and facilities, they are not able to make value-added products. This reduces their income and market opportunities. Proper technologies are required to help farmers increase the value of their produce.
Express capabilityNeed for Advanced Technology in Jaggery Processing
Jaggery is mostly produced using traditional methods which affect its quality and hygiene. These methods may also reduce the shelf life of jaggery. There is a need for improved technology such as Jio fogging to enhance the quality and safety of jaggery production. This can help farmers produce better quality jaggery and get better prices in the market.
Express capabilityCoconut oil Preservation Problem
We are struggling to find a natural preservative for our coconut oil and also for few of our edible oils.
Express capabilityInfestating Problem in Aata
At times Insect, larva, and egg stages are present in the final product and raw materials.
Express capabilityInsect Infestating problem in certain Ingredients
At times Insects present in the Bengal gram raw material and the final product creating loss for us.
Express capabilityLess Shelf life of Copra and its storage challenges
The copra storage period is only 6 months, so the oil percentage and moisture are affected.
Express capabilityDecreasing Odour of Coconut edible oil
A strong coconut smell coming from the product
Express capabilityRetaining Natural Colour of Red Chilli Powder
The Natural color of the chilli powder is changing after 6 months.
Express capabilityValue addition in De Oiled Rice Bran
Deoiled Rice Bran is generated as a byproduct of the solvent based extraction process and is abundantly available in India now. Hence the realisable value for it decreased. Hence want to create value for it by further processing the DORB.
Express capabilityDrying Challenges in Jaggery Cubes
Jaggery cubes are experiencing inadequate and non-uniform drying, resulting in higher moisture retention, extended drying time, quality deterioration, reduced shelf life, and difficulties in packaging and storage.
Express capabilityDrying Challenges in Jaggery Powder
Jaggery powder faces drying inefficiencies due to moisture retention and agglomeration (lumping), affecting product quality, free-flowing characteristics, shelf life, and overall marketability.
Express capabilityFiberglass moulding and labour issues; next-gen skilled workforce needed
Fiberglass moulding processes are hindered by the lack of technical expertise and skilled labour. There's a generational gap in acquiring these skills, making succession planning and workforce development critical.
Express capabilityWax-Free Biodegradable Packaging Solutions
Biodegradable packaging solutions that are free from wax coating, as wax- coated packages are not permissible for organic product certification.
Express capabilityNanotechnology in Primary Packaging Material
Exploration of nanotechnology applications in primary packaging materials is needed to enhance product quality and shelf life.
Express capabilityTechnical support needed for chemical product manufacturing
Chemical manufacturing units working with naphthalene, creosote oil, and similar compounds require process optimization and R&D support. Many current processes are outdated and inefficient.
Express capabilityDomain knowledge gap in microbiology biotech lab to market transition
Startups in microbiology and biotechnology face difficulties in commercializing lab innovations due to limited ERP systems, poor reverse logistics strategies, and a lack of mentoring for technology transfer.
Express capabilityContinuous Manufacturing solution for Creating Nano Carbons
Nano carbans prepared by using coconut shell, and we follow a ball mill, a very long and time consuming process with no continuity.
Express capabilityExtraction of Silica From Rice Husk Ash
Rice Husk Ash is generated as the biproduct of burning rice husk in the boiler which is being sold without realising any value out of it in its current form
Express capabilityScarcity of labour in automobile fabrication; need funding support
There’s a specific labour shortage in the automobile fabrication sector, compounded by insufficient funding for hiring and technology upgrades
Express capabilitySecure Packaging of Glass Bottles
Solution for Secure packaging of glass bottles for export to guarantee their safety.
Express capabilityBarcode Implementation for Product Details
Want to Implement a barcode system where it contains detailed information about the product.
Express capabilityExport Channels and Logistics
The sector requires facilitation in building export channels, establishing logistics, and meeting compliance for international markets. There is also a need for infrastructure to streamline customs and documentation procedures.
Express capabilityLogistic solutions for MSMEs and small-scale exporters
There is a gap in efficient and cost-effective logistics tailored for small-scale industries. The aim is to build logistics solutions that cater to MSMEs with minimal overhead.
Express capabilityRequirement of skilled technicians and manpower
Industries face an acute shortage of skilled technicians and general manpower, limiting their ability to scale operations or maintain productivity. Upskilling and targeted recruitment are needed urgently.
Express capabilityAvailability of specialized and skilled labour
A common issue across domains is the lack of both general and specialized skilled workers, particularly in technical and manufacturing sectors. This affects production efficiency and quality control.
Express capabilityLack of customer awareness about sustainable development solutions
Startups offering eco-friendly products or sustainable solutions face difficulty in customer acquisition due to lack of awareness. Need marketing campaigns and customer education initiatives.
Express capabilityLead generation, industry connections; need student support
Startups need help in generating leads, building B2B connections, and require students or interns for cost-effective marketing execution.
Express capabilityCustomer acquisition; lack of marketing knowledge
Founders struggle to attract clients due to limited marketing expertise. Training and tools for effective outreach are essential.
Express capabilityFacing competition from unregulated MSMEs
Lack of awareness and operational standards among competitors undercuts professional startups. Need for branding, education, and market differentiation strategies.
Express capabilityCompetition with large-scale industries and pricing issues
Startups struggle to compete with established players due to lower pricing power, transport costs, and poor quality raw materials. Market linkage and raw material quality assurance are needed
Express capabilityLack of reach in other colleges and communities
Startups need access to student communities and cross-college collaboration to spread awareness and expand markets.
Express capabilityNeed for local community upliftment through entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurs are seeking to build solutions that uplift local communities by creating jobs and solving grassroots issues. They need support in navigating government schemes, developing sustainable models, and ensuring long-term impact.
Express capabilityCreating platforms for multi-sector B2B matchmaking
There is a need for digital platforms that can match buyers and sellers across industries, especially for MSMEs. A trusted B2B interface can significantly streamline procurement and collaboration.
Express capabilityLack of internships, no incubation centre, minimal tech collaboration
The institution struggles to provide industry exposure due to a lack of internship opportunities, absence of an incubation center, and limited collaboration with tech hubs and R&D labs.
Express capabilityNeed for industrialist led workshops for students
Students require more hands on training through workshops conducted by industry professionals to gain practical skills and become industry-ready.
Express capabilityLack of entrepreneurial mindset in students
Most students aim for jobs rather than establishing enterprises. Institutions need programs that ignite entrepreneurial thinking and provide startup incubation support.
Express capabilityIndustry academia gap, need to enhance practical knowledge
Theoretical education is insufficient to meet industry demands. Institutions must create models for practical exposure through internships, live projects, and academia-industry partnerships
Express capability