Students from DJ Sanghvi College of Engineering, Thakur College of Engineering and Technology, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology, and NMIMS (Mumbai) have emerged as winners of the 9th National Social Enterprise Idea Challenge, organized by Azim Premji University. 

The annual event encourages students from across India to develop innovative ideas that address social and environmental challenges through entrepreneurship.

This year, over 270 entries were received from universities and colleges nationwide, with 15 teams shortlisted for the final round.

The first prize was awarded to the Mumbai team for their innovation, “Drishti”, an affordable and portable braille printer designed to make reading material more accessible for visually impaired students. By using a patented “double rack single pinion” mechanism with stepper motors, the device reduces production costs by 90%, bringing the price down to just ₹1500–2000. Compact and scalable, Drishti aims to revolutionize braille literacy and democratize access to education.

The second prize went to students from Azim Premji University, Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce (Ganeshkhind and Pune), and Fergusson College (Pune) for their idea, “Work4U Services – Young Hands, Wise Hearts.” The initiative connects rural students studying in cities with senior citizens in need of assistance with caregiving, reading, tutoring, yoga, or basic technology support. Inspired by the “Earn and Learn” model, it provides students with part-time opportunities while fostering intergenerational bonds and companionship for the elderly. 

The third prize was jointly won by students from IIM Jammu and Mewar University for their innovative social enterprise proposal.

Nazrul Haque, Mentor for the Social Enterprise Cell at Azim Premji University, commended the participants, stating, “This challenge represents the spirit of change — where ideas meet purpose. Listening to these passionate teams reminds us that the future of impact lies in innovation with heart.”

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