IIT Delhi Student Wins Rs 1 Lakh for Assistive Smart Glasses Idea

On September 17, 2026, Akshit Arora, a final-year B.Tech student at IIT Delhi, achieved recognition by winning Rs 1 lakh for his innovative smart-glasses concept. This initiative was part of Jio Haptik’s SOLO by Interakt campaign, which took place across Delhi-NCR. The campaign aimed to engage aspiring entrepreneurs by providing them a platform to present their business ideas. Over three days, more than 300 participants contributed to the event, pitching over 185 unique business concepts. Arora's idea specifically targets individuals suffering from conditions such as ALS, Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord injuries, enhancing their ability to communicate and interact with their environment. This showcases a significant impact on the lives of many who face such challenges.

The SOLO by Interakt campaign was designed to foster a supportive ecosystem for budding entrepreneurs. It toured notable locations in Delhi-NCR, including IIT Delhi and Connaught Place, providing a mobile platform for idea presentation. Participants received valuable feedback from industry experts, including the jury comprising Ahshad Jussawala, CEO of Jio Haptik, and Rajan Luthra, Co-Founder of Metvy. The event not only highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit prevalent in India but also emphasized the importance of mentorship and guidance in transforming ideas into viable businesses.

Participants pitched ideas across various sectors, including Healthtech, consumer technology, and Edtech, reflecting a diverse range of challenges that young entrepreneurs seek to address. The jury evaluated pitches based on criteria such as innovation, market potential, and feasibility. Arora's smart-glasses concept distinguished itself through its clear problem-solution fit and its potential to serve a vulnerable population. His win underscores the campaign's objective to support innovative thinking and practical solutions to real-world problems.

The SOLO initiative also shed light on the operational hurdles that many aspiring entrepreneurs face. A significant number of participants expressed that assistance in marketing and customer support could encourage them to start their own businesses. This insight reinforces the mission of SOLO, which aims to utilize AI to alleviate some of the routine burdens of business management. By doing so, it allows entrepreneurs to focus on their core business objectives and growth.

Looking ahead, the SOLO by Interakt program plans to continue nurturing entrepreneurial talent in India. It aims to expand its reach and resources, providing ongoing support to small business owners and solopreneurs. The reward won by Arora will facilitate the development of his smart-glasses project, contributing to a larger movement of innovation aimed at improving lives through technology. The success of this initiative may inspire further entrepreneurial endeavors and technological advancements in the region.