T.N. Startup Summit: Panellists stress need for policy framework that fosters inclusivity in startups

T.N. Startup Summit: Panellists stress need for policy framework that fosters inclusivity in startups

Even as Tamil Nadu is heading towards a vibrant and tech-led startup ecosystem, there is a need for a policy framework that fosters inclusivity in startups, noted panelists in one of the sessions hosted at The Hindu Tamil Nadu Startup Summit 2025, in Chennai on Thursday (April 24, 2025).

The summit is organised by The Hindu, along with SRM Institute of Science and Technology, and co-presented by StartupTN in association with Sify Technologies.

During a session on ‘Building a diverse startup ecosystem: inclusion and gender equality’, panellists discussed the power of inclusive technology, role of academic institutions in fostering the same, and how inclusion must be unbiased.

Speaking about the challenges faced by persons with physical disabilities and the role of innovations through assistive technology in empowering them, Prateek Madhav, co-founder and CEO, AssisTech Foundation, said the country is now growing into one of the best assistive technology hubs in the world. The number has grown from a mere 10 or 15 to a vibrant ecosystem of 500 startups, which have changed lives and enabled persons with physical disabilities to gain better accessibility, independence, and social inclusion. Several of them were from Tamil Nadu, Mr. Madhav said.

Highlighting technological innovation as the reason behind societal transformation and the growth of the startup ecosystem, he said it is essential to include assistive technology in the policy framework.

Noting that persons with disabilities cannot be left behind in the attempt to build an inclusive ecosystem, he said they contribute 5% to 7% to the country’s GDP. Investment, technological innovations, and research in inclusive startups would help in improving the economic impact of including persons with physical disabilities.

Subalalitha C.N., professor, Department of Computing Technologies, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, spoke about the role of academia in nurturing startup and entrepreneurial mindset among students and encouraging faculty startups.