IInvenTiv-2025: India's young, brightest minds showcase future tech at IIT Madras

Interesting technology innovations from various fields, including defence, maritime and healthcare, were showcased at the IInvenTiv - 2025 at  IIT Madras by premier technical institutes from across the country. 

Besides, AI & advanced manufacturing technologies like 3D Printing and additive manufacturing were showcased to the industry with a view of converting lab research into real solutions.

For instance, the biotechnology sector featured contributions, particularly from SRM University, which showcased biosurfactants derived from glucose and biowaste, and a microbial pigment from Gram-positive bacteria, serving as a natural dye with antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties. NIT Arunachal Pradesh revealed herbal skincare solutions, including antibacterial and anti-cancer moisturisers and turmeric-infused lip balms.

Additive manufacturing was another major focus, with IIT Madras demonstrating laser powder bed fusion technology, with a key exhibit being a titanium alloy cranial implant. AI and robotics were also showcased. IIT Madras also presented RoBuoy, an autonomous underwater glider, and a multi-modal robotic research platform with walking and grasping capabilities. IIT Kanpur displayed a quadcopter drone with a gripper, showcasing AI-driven precision handling for industrial and defense applications.

Then there was IIT Gandhinagar’s Lingo Lab that exhibited Ganga, a ChatGPT-style AI model for Indian languages, now available in Hindi and English, with Telugu and Tamil versions in progress. Representatives from IIT Delhi revealed next-generation human-machine interfaces using ultrasound, a leap in biomechatronics.

Environmental remediation developments were also part of the fest. IISER Kolkata exhibited a water toxin sensor chip, enabling real-time water safety monitoring. NIT Trichy revealed an innovative carbon dioxide-to-methanol conversion process, achieving 16 per cent efficiency in a single pass, offering promise in carbon capture and sustainable fuel production.

Another interesting aspect of the technology showcased was sustainable construction. IIT Bombay exhibited polymer composite coatings, derived from industrial waste, which enhance soundproofing, thermal insulation, and corrosion resistance. IIT Delhi showcased LC3, a blend of limestone, calcined clay, gypsum, and cement, which reduces CO₂ emissions by 40 per cent while maintaining strength and cost-effectiveness. IIT Dharwad exhibited 3D concrete printing techniques, which significantly reduce material waste and enhance construction efficiency. NIT Silchar and IIT Tirupati showcased geopolymer and fly ash incorporated bricks, a low-carbon alternative to conventional concrete bricks.

In the healthcare space, IIT Madras incubated Hemosync’s showcased a non-invasive hemoglobin and vital monitoring device, while another research team exhibited an edible, real-time breath sensor made from rice starch, aloe vera, and ginger, offering a safe and innovative health-tracking solution.

In addition to that the Chintan Shivir panel discussions at IInvenTiv 2025 explored key advancements in sustainability, healthcare, marine technologies, additive manufacturing, AI/ML, rural technologies, and aerospace innovation. The session on circularity and sustainability addressed challenges in renewable energy, resource efficiency, and carbon neutrality. 

Experts highlighted the long road to EV sustainability, emphasising emissions from battery production, grid power reliance, and end-of-life concerns. Discussions also focused on circular economy models, advocating for return, reuse, and recycling strategies to minimise waste. 

The need for alternative hydrogen generation methods and groundwater conservation was underscored as key to achieving sustainable energy transitions. The healthcare panel examined barriers to translating research into real-world applications. Experts stressed the need for structured regulatory frameworks, industry-academia collaboration, and investment support. The lack of an FDA-equivalent in India remains a key challenge, leading to IP transfers overseas.

Additive manufacturing discussions highlighted innovations in 3D printing for industrial, medical, and construction applications, showcasing its role in cost-effective and sustainable production. The AI/ML panel explored applications in automation, predictive analytics, and ethical AI deployment. The rural technologies panel focused on affordable solutions for agriculture, water management, and decentralized energy systems.

The marine technologies panel, featuring government, industry, and academic experts, covered ocean technology missions, shipbuilding concerns, automation, and eco-friendly fuels. Aviation, defence, and space experts emphasised the need for indigenous innovation and supply chain resilience.