The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (OPSA) to the Government of India recently marked the culmination of Inspiring Innovators – Naye Bharat Ki Nayi Pehchaan, a skilling initiative developed in collaboration with the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity, in New Delhi. The programme was implemented in partnership with Graphiti Studios and brought together policymakers, industry, start-ups, students and creative professionals.

The initiative focused on promoting socially relevant innovation through storytelling and hands-on skilling. Eight Indian start-ups, identified by OPSA for their work in social-impact innovation, were showcased through eight short animated films created by students from eight universities across the country.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, said the programme was designed to highlight innovation with social relevance while strengthening skills and knowledge pathways. He noted that the collaboration between start-ups, students and industry mentors reflects a holistic approach to building India’s innovation ecosystem by linking policy intent with talent development and real-world application.

The programme provided hands-on creative exposure to 26 students from diverse regions, with women comprising 50 per cent of the cohort. Several participants were from Tier-II cities. The students were mentored by experts from the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, and Graphiti Studios, gaining practical insight into professional creative workflows.

Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, said the initiative aligns with the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision by highlighting innovations delivering tangible societal benefits, particularly in fisheries, agriculture and assistive technologies for persons with disabilities.

Mahima Kaul, Director, Global Affairs, Netflix India, said the initiative brings together government, industry and young creators to present inclusive stories shaping India’s innovation landscape.

The culmination ceremony featured screenings of all eight films, an anthem performance by students of the Shankar Mahadevan Academy, and addresses by senior representatives from partner organisations. The films will be available for viewing on Netflix India’s YouTube channel.