Mansi Jain’s return to India after her education at Stanford University marked the beginning of a transformative journey in wastewater management. Partnering with her father, Rajesh Jain, who brought over 25 years of experience in the water and energy sectors, they identified a critical gap in the operational efficiency of wastewater treatment plants. Despite the existence of approximately 90,000 such facilities in India, a staggering 75% were failing due to manual operations and lack of expertise. This realization led to the inception of Digital Paani in 2020, with a mission to integrate technology into water management.

Harnessing technology for sustainable water management 

Digital Paani’s core innovation lies in its IoT-enabled software platform that automates and optimizes the operations of wastewater treatment plants. The platform acts as a comprehensive management tool, providing real-time insights and actionable recommendations to ensure operational excellence. By automating equipment and guiding process management, the platform reduces water losses and enhances recycling efforts, thus moving industries and residential societies towards water neutrality. This approach not only saves costs but also significantly reduces environmental impact.

Scaling with trust

Digital Paani’s use of indigenous technology for environmental sustainability supports the goals of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan and National Water Mission, particularly in enhancing water availability through demand-side management. Its work with urban infrastructure stakeholders resonates with the objectives of the AMRUT 2.0 and Smart Cities Mission, while its industrial deployments contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). 

The measurable impact of Digital Paani’s technology is evident in its widespread adoption by industry giants such as Tata Power, Delhi Jal Board, and Britannia. The startup’s innovative business model, which offers guaranteed savings and operational efficiency, has attracted over 40 deployments, including recent collaborations with Reliance and Dr. Reddy’s in 2023. These partnerships underscore the platform’s scalability and adaptability across diverse industrial and residential settings.

Plug-and-play for a water-secure future

Digital Paani’s success story offers a replicable model for other regions facing similar water management challenges. The startup’s plug-and-play approach, which allows for quick integration into existing facilities, enhances its appeal and potential for widespread adoption. With a presence in 14 states and significant financial backing from global and Indian investors, Digital Paani is poised for further expansion.

Their innovative approach to wastewater management is a game changer for India, addressing critical issues of water scarcity and environmental sustainability. By transforming the way water treatment facilities operate, the startup not only supports national goals but also sets a precedent for technological integration in resource management. As Mansi Jain envisions, the future of water lies in unlocking wastewater’s potential as a key resource, driving climate resilience and ensuring a sustainable future for India’s urban landscapes.