Open Challenge Programme 7.0 (NIRMAAN)

NIRMAAN is the seventh open challenge run by the centre. It asks start-ups, innovators and researchers to solve listed problem statements in medical electronics and health informatics, or to propose their own solution in those fields. The listed problems include an IoT biosensing system for at-home testing, medical wearables for cardiac and neurological monitoring, a neonatal neuro-monitoring device, AI-based sepsis prediction and low-cost rehabilitation devices.

The round is closed. Applications closed on 08 Oct 2026. Watch the centre's site and the Sayuj portal for the next round.

What you get

• Seed funding for selected start-ups, with a pitch before the centre's Investment Committee
• Furnished plug-and-play office space, conference rooms, 3D modelling and 3D printing
• Mentoring from industry and clinical experts, and go-to-market support, including showcases at conferences
• Guidance on IPR and CDSCO compliance

Who can apply

• Indian start-ups with at least 51% of shares held by Indian citizens or persons of Indian origin, and not a subsidiary of a foreign company
• Individual academics, researchers, educators, firms and LLPs may also apply, but must register as a private limited company within about three months if selected

How selection works: Screening runs in several tiers with domain experts. Stage one shortlists ideas, proofs of concept, prototypes, MVPs and pre-market solutions. Stage two is a final pitch.

How to apply: Apply only through the Sayuj portal. Applying costs nothing.