Image used for representational purpose only (AI image)

Nineteen social start-ups took part in the PrISE (Promote and Incubate Social Enterprises) incubation programme, that concluded on Friday at Bala Vikasa campus in Keesara.
AGRODROID
Founders : Vuppu Mahesh and Kjashwan Jeshwanth
A grodroid is building ‘CultiOx’, a 9-ft autonomous robot to provide smart farming solutions. It will perform tasks like sowing, weeding, fertilising, pesticide spraying, and harvesting — reducing labour dependency.

“Cotton farming is becoming less viable due to labour shortages and high costs. It requires 10 labourers for 50 hours per acre. The existing equipment is not capable of fulfilling their requirements,” said Mahesh.
For better understanding, a pilot is underway in five villages across Medchal-Malkajgiri, Mahabubabad, and Medak.
Kodamalas Krushi Foundation
Founders: K Bhargavi and K Prakash

KKF has developed ‘boneAH’, an AI-based app to assess bone age and growth in children using hand X-rays, helping monitor height, growth, nutrition, and organ health without radiology. The team is working on AI tools for chest, spine, and other assessments, aiming to make diagnostics affordable.
Sai Lakshmi Biofuels
Founder: K Lakshminarayana

Sai Lakshmi Biofuels produces bio-coal briquettes using sawdust and tender coconut water, offering a cheaper and eco-friendly alternative to coal. “While coal costs Rs 14-18 per kg, our briquettes cost Rs 8, per kg,” said Lakshminarayana.
Situated in Sangareddy, the company is targeting pharma companies. Now, it supplies 200-250 tonnes monthly, far below 10,000-tonne demand.
Abhaya Soft Solutions
Founder: Sirisha Shashikanth
Abhaya Soft Solutions is developing ‘Diya’, a personal safety device that works without phone via a SIM card. It triggers SOS alerts and location sharing to five contacts.
“Many women struggle to access phones in emergencies; this device will be faster and simpler,” said Sirisha. A pilot with schools will follow, aiming for the device to become part of school uniforms. Sirisha also hopes to collaborate with state police.