STMicroelectronics to redefine technology innovation in rural India

 To support technological innovation in the remote areas of India and create a marketplace for the result of that innovation, STMicroelectronics has entered into a strategic alliance with India’s National Innovation Foundation (NIF) under the aegis of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.

The close relationship with ST will help NIF and other network members convert technological inventions conceived within the “Honey Bee” network of likeminded individuals, innovators, farmers, scholars, academicians, policy-makers, entrepreneurs and NGOs, into the mainstream business.  Honey Bee collects ideas from all over India through a drive called ShodhYatra (“search trip”) and brings rural innovation to light to help mankind, besides mobilizing ideas of technology students from hundreds of colleges across India.

Through this unique relationship, NIF will emphasize complete product development, while ST will validate and develop electronic solutions for some of the innovative ideas and convert them into value-added technologies/products that can potentially make a difference to the masses.

"Our effort with the National Innovation Foundation is in line with ST's culture of community-spiritedness - equipping local communities with the skills required to succeed in today’s knowledge-based economy. This gives us a great opportunity to support and incubate grassroots innovations with a focus on encouraging future-oriented, trend-spotting electronics designs that, ideally, serve the nation and world at large," said Vivek Sharma, Regional Vice- President, Greater China and South Asia Region - India Operations, Director India Design Centers, STMicroelectronics.

STMicroelectronics and the National Innovation Fund urge talent to come across geographical barriers and encourage formation of innovation clusters across the country.