While most startups are racing to build AI applications, two Indian entrepreneurs are taking innovation beneath the surface.

And they've just raised ₹18 crore to go bigger.

Odisha-based Coratia Technologies, founded by Debendra Pradhan and Biswajit Swain, has secured fresh funding in a round led by MGF Kavachh.

The startup develops underwater robots designed to inspect ships, dams, pipelines and critical infrastructure, reducing the need for human divers to work in dangerous environments.

Its flagship robotic vehicle, Jalasimha, is built to operate in challenging underwater conditions, where visibility is poor and conventional inspections can be risky.

But this isn't just another robotics project.

Coratia is also working on a ₹66 crore contract with the Indian Navy, marking a significant milestone for the company's indigenous technology.

The founders began exploring robotics during their student days at NIT Rourkela. What started as an engineering interest has grown into a business developing technology for defence and industrial applications.

The latest investment will support manufacturing, product development and the execution of existing projects.

As India's startup ecosystem continues to celebrate AI breakthroughs, Coratia is a reminder that some of the country's most interesting innovations are happening far beyond computer screens.

Sometimes, the next big Indian startup story is happening underwater.

While most startups are racing to build AI applications, two Indian entrepreneurs are taking innovation beneath the surface.

And they've just raised ₹18 crore to go bigger.

Odisha-based Coratia Technologies, founded by Debendra Pradhan and Biswajit Swain, has secured fresh funding in a round led by MGF Kavachh.

The startup develops underwater robots designed to inspect ships, dams, pipelines and critical infrastructure, reducing the need for human divers to work in dangerous environments.

Its flagship robotic vehicle, Jalasimha, is built to operate in challenging underwater conditions, where visibility is poor and conventional inspections can be risky.

But this isn't just another robotics project.

Coratia is also working on a ₹66 crore contract with the Indian Navy, marking a significant milestone for the company's indigenous technology.

The founders began exploring robotics during their student days at NIT Rourkela. What started as an engineering interest has grown into a business developing technology for defence and industrial applications.

The latest investment will support manufacturing, product development and the execution of existing projects.

As India's startup ecosystem continues to celebrate AI breakthroughs, Coratia is a reminder that some of the country's most interesting innovations are happening far beyond computer screens.

Sometimes, the next big Indian startup story is happening underwater.