Indian AI and Consumer Tech Startups Secure Funding and Defence Partnerships

Several Indian startups reported major developments on October 27, 2026, ranging from new defence contracts for artificial intelligence firms to fresh capital for consumer-focused businesses. The updates highlight ongoing growth in India’s technology sector across the consumer appliance, defence, and social commerce industries.

Key Takeaways

• Defence collaboration: Sarvam AI signed a five-year agreement with India’s Ministry of Defence to develop indigenous artificial intelligence tools.
• Capital infusion: Bengaluru-based Live2.ai secured Rs 130 crore in a pre-Series B funding round led by IvyCap Ventures.
• Childcare expansion: Maasi raised Rs 6 crore in pre-seed funding to scale its nanny service following a strong public launch.
• Consumer innovation: EDT, founded by Naiyya Saggi, is targeting the Indian market with tech-enabled home and beauty appliances.

Defence and AI Partnerships

Sarvam AI, an artificial intelligence startup founded by Pratyush Kumar and Vivek Raghavan, has entered a five-year agreement with the Indian Ministry of Defence. The initiative focuses on creating AI models specifically for the armed forces, including tools for intelligence analysis, surveillance, and operational decision-making. The Ministry intends to strengthen domestic capabilities and reduce reliance on international technology for sensitive military operations.

Funding and Market Growth

Live2.ai, a Bengaluru-based social commerce startup, raised Rs 130 crore ($14 million) in a pre-Series B round led by IvyCap Ventures. The company, founded by J Venkat and Neha Suyal, utilizes AI to assist brands with social media monitoring, campaign management, and influencer auditing. The funding round includes provisions for both company expansion and liquidity for early shareholders.

In the childcare sector, Maasi secured Rs 6 crore in pre-seed funding led by Better Capital and Antler India. The startup, which launched on October 20, connects parents with caregivers. Founders Aashu Manchali, Gargi Pandey, and Reshov Roy report that the platform has already served over 1,200 parents through a network of 500 caregivers.