The 14th edition of the ChinniKrishnan Innovation Awards 2025 was held in Chennai, where three innovative ventures were honored for their groundbreaking solutions. Each winning venture received ₹1 lakh, a trophy, and a citation, as well as access to CavinKare’s industry support to help scale their innovations. The winners included Avay Biosciences, which developed a 3D bioprinting platform that eliminates the need for animal testing in preclinical drug trials. Dhanvantri Biomedical Pvt Ltd was recognized for creating the Sahayatha Wheelchair, the world’s first wheelchair with an integrated toilet, cleaning system, and water storage. Urdhvam Environmental Technologies Pvt Ltd was also awarded for its ‘Bore Charger’, a patented smart rainwater harvesting system that restores low-yielding or dry borewells without construction or maintenance.
The event was attended by notable figures, including R. Dinesh, Executive Chairman of TVS Supply Chain Solutions, and C.K. Ranganathan, Chairman and Managing Director of CavinKare. Ranganathan praised the innovators, stating that their achievements remind us that true innovation is about creating solutions that improve lives and inspire others to think differently. Lakshminarayanan Duraiswamy, President of the Madras Management Association, noted that the over 300 nominations received this year highlight the exponential growth of India’s innovation ecosystem.
The ChinniKrishnan Innovation Awards were instituted in 2011 in memory of the late Shri R. ChinniKrishnan, a visionary who significantly contributed to the FMCG industry through his innovations. Since its inception, the award has recognized and celebrated 39 exemplary entrepreneurial ventures from across India. The award aims to support and encourage innovative ventures that have the potential to create a positive impact on society. This year’s winners are a testament to the growing innovation ecosystem in India, and their solutions have the potential to improve lives and transform industries. The awards ceremony was a celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship, and it highlighted the importance of supporting and recognizing innovative ventures that can drive positive change.