Suparjya swain 
Bhubaneswar: Elmentoz Research, a Bhubaneswar-based deep-tech biotech startup, has been felicitated with the prestigious Startup Mahakumbh Grand Challenge Award 2025 for its groundbreaking innovation in animal nutrition. The award was presented by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, during the Startup Mahakumbh event held from April 3 to 5.
This recognition places Elmentoz at the forefront of India’s biotech and sustainable innovation landscape. The startup has developed a revolutionary antibiotic-free technology for animal feed, addressing the growing global concern of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in humans.
Founded by acclaimed biotechnologist and entrepreneur Dr. Jayashankar Das, Elmentoz Research leverages Black Soldier Fly (BSF) biotechnology to convert organic waste into high-value functional proteins, oils, and biofertilizers. These smart protein solutions are enriched with antimicrobial peptides and are custom-designed for poultry, aquafeed, and pet food industries. The company’s innovations aim to enhance animal health, cut feed manufacturing costs, and eliminate the need for antibiotics—ushering in a new era of sustainable and functional feed systems in India.
Speaking on the achievement, Dr. Das stated, “This award is a recognition of years of rigorous research and our commitment to building a circular, climate-resilient bioeconomy. Our mission is to reshape animal nutrition through science-driven, eco-friendly alternatives that have real impact on global food systems.”
Elmentoz’s recognition came at India’s largest startup event—Startup Mahakumbh—which featured over 3,000 exhibitors, 10,000 startups, 1,000 investors, and more than 50,000 business visitors from across India and the world. The event showcased innovation across key sectors including AgriTech, BioTech & HealthTech, AI, FinTech, Defense Tech, and Climate Tech.
Backed by a strong R&D foundation, Elmentoz holds several patents and has received multiple competitive grants, including BIRAC’s Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG), Startup India Seed Fund, NRDC-DSIR TDVC Grant, Indo-Israel I4F Grant, HDFC Parivartan Eco-Innovate Grant, and the MeitY Leap Ahead Cohort.
This milestone cements Elmentoz’s position as a trailblazer in deep-tech innovation with the potential to transform India’s poultry and aquafeed industries and play a pivotal role in global food security.
