Tag: Navkaran Singh Bagga

The Better India

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This Kolkata-Based Startup Is Turning Air Into Water — Over 100 Million Litres and Counting

From Curiosity to Climate Action

Founded by Navkaran Singh Bagga, Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems is redefining how India thinks about drinking water. Headquartered in Kolkata, the company has generated over 100 million litres of clean drinking water across 15 countries — without extracting a single drop from the ground.

With cities like Bengaluru and Chennai facing recurring shortages, and water stress rising in Mumbai, the urgency is clear. Bagga, who studied finance but nurtured a lifelong passion for technology, launched Akvo in 2017 to decentralise access to safe water using Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs).

Turning Humidity into Drinking Water

Akvo’s AWGs extract moisture from ambient air, filter it, cool it to trigger condensation, and purify the collected water through multi-stage filtration and UV treatment. Essential minerals are then added to ensure the water is safe and balanced for consumption.

The systems perform especially well in humid regions and can operate on grid electricity, solar panels, or generators. Depending on climate conditions, they can produce between 2.5 to 4 litres of water per unit of electricity.

Since its first deployment in 2018, Akvo has installed more than 2,000 systems across India, the Middle East, and parts of South America.

Sustainable Solutions for Industry and Communities

Akvo’s clients include manufacturing plants, renewable energy sites, and hospitals seeking to reduce reliance on groundwater and plastic bottles. At the Tuppadahalli Wind Farm in Karnataka, operated by Acciona, water is now generated on-site — aligning clean water production with renewable power generation.

The company also offers a flexible BOOT (Build, Own, Operate, Transfer) model, allowing businesses to adopt sustainable water systems without upfront capital investment. Clients simply pay for the water they consume.

Scaling with Purpose

Operating with a lean team and without external investors, Akvo has focused on mission-driven growth. Its systems range from 50-litre units to industrial-scale machines producing up to 30,000 litres per day.

As expansion plans target water-stressed yet humid regions in Africa and the Gulf, the vision remains clear: decentralised, climate-resilient water access that reduces dependence on pipelines, tankers, and bottled water.

Akvo’s journey is not just about technology — it is about rethinking water itself. Instead of digging deeper into the ground, the company looks upward, tapping into the vast reservoir already present in the air around us.

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The Better India

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Navkaran Singh Bagga: Pulling drinking water straight from the air

Navkaran Singh Bagga grew up taking apart electronics in his Kolkata home, but the water crisis pushed him towards a different kind of invention. He wondered why a country surrounded by humidity was still running out of drinking water. In 2017, he built Akvo, a system that turns air into clean, mineral-balanced water.

Since the first machine went commercial in 2018, Akvo has installed over 2,000 units across six Indian cities and 15 countries, producing more than 100 million litres without touching a drop of groundwater. From factories to schools and remote sites, the machines offer a dependable, decentralised answer to water scarcity.

Read more about our work here.

WIO News

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Turning Air Into Water: Akvo’s Sustainable Answer to the Global Water Crisis

Access to clean drinking water remains a critical global issue — over 2.2 billion people lack it, according to the World Health Organization. As the world marked World Water Day on March 22, innovators like Navkaran Singh Bagga, founder and CEO of Akvo, are offering bold new solutions. His company is tackling the water crisis by literally turning air into safe, potable water.

Through Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) technology, Akvo’s machines extract humidity from the air, condense it into water, and purify it to drinking standards. “AWG is cutting-edge technology that captures water from the air we breathe,” says Bagga. “Once the moisture is condensed, it’s filtered and sterilised, ensuring the water is clean, safe, and chemical-free.”

He likens the process to the condensation seen on a cold glass on a humid day — only industrialized and highly controlled. The water passes through carbon and sediment filters, UV treatment, and sometimes reverse osmosis to meet stringent quality standards.

Akvo’s innovation not only reduces dependence on groundwater and plastic-packaged water but also offers a sustainable, decentralized water solution for homes, businesses, and regions facing severe water scarcity.

As the climate crisis worsens, such renewable technologies are not just impressive –  they’re essential.

For the full article please visit here.

Telegraph India

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How Akvo is Making Water Sustainable and Accessible

In an era where water scarcity is rapidly becoming one of the world’s most pressing environmental concerns, Kolkata-based Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems is offering a transformative solution. At the forefront of this innovation is Akvo’s new initiative — Water-on-Want (WoW) — which is reshaping the way businesses think about water access, sustainability, and cost-efficiency.

Rethinking the Water Supply Chain

Akvo’s WoW model is built on a simple yet powerful idea: access to clean drinking water shouldn’t require heavy capital investment. Traditionally, businesses have relied on expensive infrastructure or unsustainable bottled water solutions. Akvo’s solution changes that by turning water into a service — not a product.

“WoW was born from a simple question: Why must access to clean water be capital-intensive? Water becomes a service, not a product — transforming it from a logistical headache into a strategic sustainability win,” said Navkaran Singh Bagga, Founder and CEO of Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems.

Under an OPEX-based Build, Own, Operate, Transfer (BOOT) model, Akvo installs its atmospheric water generators (AWGs) on-site at client locations. The company maintains ownership and operation of the units, while clients are billed only for the volume of water they consume. This approach eliminates upfront costs, simplifies maintenance, and provides predictable, consumption-based pricing.

Adaptable Technology for a Diverse Climate

Currently deployed in water-stressed regions across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, Akvo’s AWG units are engineered to function efficiently across a wide range of climatic conditions — from Chennai’s coastal humidity to Pune’s drier air.

“Our machines condense moisture from the air, filter and mineralise it, and deliver safe drinking water on demand. Thanks to IoT-enabled performance tracking, we ensure consistent output regardless of external climate conditions,” explained Navkaran Singh Bagga.

This adaptability allows Akvo to serve areas where municipal supply is unreliable and groundwater is rapidly depleting.

The Numbers Behind Sustainability

The environmental impact of Akvo’s model is significant. During an 18-month pilot, clients reported up to a 95% reduction in plastic water jar usage, which translates to eliminating over 200,000 litres of transported water per month. A Bengaluru IT park cut carbon emissions by 4.5 tonnes annually, while a Mumbai hotel reduced water procurement costs by 22% and earned green building credits.

“Each 500-litre-per-day unit can save nearly 365,000 plastic bottles annually. That’s the kind of impact that scales when businesses adopt water as a sustainable service rather than a commodity,” said Navkaran Singh Bagga.

A Win-Win for Business and the Planet

Akvo’s AWG units are compact — requiring just one square metre of space — and operate at just 0.26 kWh per litre under optimal conditions. With pricing as low as ₹1.25 per litre, the systems are already serving sectors like IT parks, hotels, and manufacturing hubs.

“By producing water locally, we eliminate transportation emissions, avoid municipal tariffs, and help businesses meet ESG targets without increasing costs,” added Navkaran Singh Bagga.

Akvo has now expanded into 15 countries, including Qatar and Dubai, generating over 100 million litres of clean water globally. The company is now focusing on fully solar-powered AWGs and mobile container units to serve remote locations and disaster zones.

Bridging Innovation and Accessibility

Despite the advanced technology, Akvo’s mission is rooted in making sustainability accessible. “WoW isn’t just an ESG move — it’s a practical hedge against water volatility. Sustainability is no longer a choice — it’s a license to operate. If you can save money, reduce plastic waste, and secure your water supply—all without capex — why wouldn’t you?” said Navkaran Singh Bagga.

For Akvo, the goal goes beyond business. It’s about changing how we think about water — not just as a resource, but as a sustainable service.

“We don’t want sustainability to be a buzzword or a checkbox. It should be as simple as turning on a tap — and knowing you’re doing right by the planet,” concluded Navkaran Singh Bagga.

To read the full article, please visit here.

Times Tech

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On National Technology Day 2025, Akvo CEO Navkaran Singh Bagga Champions Water Innovation

In a special feature by TimesTech, Navkaran Singh Bagga, CEO and founder of Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems, showcased how the company’s pioneering air-to-water technology is transforming global access to clean water. On the occasion of National Technology Day 2025, Bagga outlined Akvo’s mission to deliver decentralized, climate-resilient water solutions through innovations like modular Water Block units, IoT integration, and AI-powered efficiency.

“Our vision is simple yet ambitious,” Navkaran Singh Bagga said. “We want every community—from remote villages to megacities—to access clean drinking water directly from air, without depending on overburdened natural sources.”

With more than 100 million litres of water generated to date, Akvo’s smart systems are addressing critical water challenges across geographies—from coastal cities to arid interiors—while eliminating reliance on plastic bottles and tanker transport.

Reflecting on his own entrepreneurial journey from steel manufacturing to clean-tech, Bagga shared a message for young innovators:

“Dream big, but stay rooted in local realities. The best innovations come from deep empathy for the communities you serve. Focus on creating scalable, sustainable solutions, and don’t be afraid to challenge conventional thinking. Building technology is only half the journey—delivering impact is where true innovation shines. And remember, resilience matters as much as brilliance.”

Looking ahead, Bagga emphasized the role of AI and IoT in making Akvo’s systems more predictive, autonomous, and accessible to underserved populations — further advancing the company’s mission of sustainable, democratized water access.

To read the full article, please visit here.

APN News

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AKVO Launches Water-on-Want (WoW) for Sustainable Water Solutions

Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems Pvt. Ltd. has officially launched its Water-on-Want (WoW) initiative, offering a revolutionary, CAPEX-free, OPEX-based BOOT model for water generation. Designed for corporates in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, the WoW model enables access to Akvo’s advanced Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) with no upfront investment.

After an 18-month pilot, WoW ensures a risk-free, cost-effective, and sustainable way for businesses to meet their daily water needs (minimum 500 LPD). Akvo installs, maintains, and operates the system while clients pay per litre.

“WoW is more than tech—it’s a sustainable business model,” said Navkaran Singh Bagga, CEO & Founder.

To read the full article please visit: APN News

The Print

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Futuristic Water Tech: From Rain Energy to Atmospheric Water

As India faces intensifying water scarcity due to climate change, researchers and innovators are exploring futuristic solutions beyond traditional groundwater and surface water sources.

On World Water Day, experts spotlight breakthroughs like atmospheric water generation (AWG) and rain energy harvesting. One of the notable efforts comes from Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems Pvt. Ltd., led by CEO Navkaran Singh Bagga. The company recently launched its Water-on-Want (WoW) initiative for corporates in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. The program operates on a zero-CAPEX, OPEX-based BOOT model, providing clean drinking water via AWGs with a minimum daily offtake of 500 litres.

“WoW removes financial barriers to sustainable water. We install, own, and operate the systems—clients only pay per litre used,” said Mr. Bagga.

Meanwhile, researchers like Dr. Visakh Vaikuntanathan at Shiv Nadar University are studying ways to harness rain energy, developing dual-use solar-rain cells that generate power from both sunlight and rainfall.

With climate change threatening Himalayan glaciers that feed India’s rivers, experts like Dr. Dipankar Saha warn that urgent tech-driven interventions are critical. Companies like Suhora are using satellite intelligence to monitor glacial changes and prevent disasters.

A 2018 NITI Aayog report projected that by 2030, India’s water demand may double its supply—making such innovations more vital than ever.

Dev Discourse

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Harnessing Rain Energy and Atmosphere: The Future of Water Sustainability

As climate change threatens freshwater availability, experts are advancing innovative solutions like rain energy harvesting and atmospheric water generation.

Dr. Visakh Vaikuntanathan of Shiv Nadar University is developing ‘all-weather’ cells that harness energy from raindrops and sunlight, integrating seamlessly with rooftops and drainage systems.

Simultaneously, Navkaran Singh Bagga, CEO of Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems, leads the way in generating clean drinking water from air humidity. With operations in 15 countries, Akvo’s Water-on-Want (WoW) initiative, now live in multiple Indian states, offers sustainable, no-CAPEX water access through a BOOT model.

As Himalayan glaciers shrink, technology is also vital in monitoring melt patterns to manage future water flow. On World Water Day, these pioneering efforts shine as hope for water resilience in India.

DT Next

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As India battles rising water scarcity worsened by climate change and extreme weather, researchers and innovators are pushing beyond conventional methods to secure sustainable water sources.

On World Water Day, attention turns to ideas like rain energy harvesting, atmospheric water generation (AWG), and glacier monitoring.

Dr. Visakh Vaikuntanathan of Shiv Nadar University is working on converting the kinetic energy of rain—typically lost as sound—into usable energy through “all-weather” cells that act as both solar and rain-powered generators. His team uses IMD data to estimate rainfall energy and aims to create a rain energy map for India.

Meanwhile, atmospheric water is emerging as a dependable source. A study in Nature outlined a sorption-based atmospheric harvesting system that could revolutionize agriculture.

Navkaran Singh Bagga, CEO of Akvo Atmospheric Water Systems, highlights the company’s use of AWG technology in 15 countries. Akvo’s newly launched Water-on-Want (WoW) initiative in four Indian states (TN, KA, MH, GJ) offers water generation on an OPEX-based BOOT model, eliminating upfront CAPEX and ensuring a minimum of 500 LPD for corporates.

“The WoW model removes financial risk and promotes sustainable access to water,” said Mr. Bagga.

Technologies are also crucial for glacier monitoring, with experts like Dr. Dipankar Saha warning of the cascading effects of glacial melt on India’s rivers and groundwater. Companies like Suhora are applying satellite data and predictive analytics to monitor glacial changes and prepare communities.

India’s looming water crisis—projected to worsen by 2030 with demand outpacing supply—calls for urgent adoption of such innovative solutions.

To read the full article visit: DT Next

The Week

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As climate change intensifies and extreme weather events strain freshwater availability, Indian researchers and innovators are exploring cutting-edge solutions to tackle water scarcity. On World Water Day, attention turns to ideas that go beyond conventional sources like groundwater and surface water.

Harnessing Rain Energy
Dr. Visakh Vaikuntanathan and his team at Shiv Nadar University are working on an innovative concept: extracting energy from rainfall. Their research focuses on “all-weather cells” that function as both solar and rain-powered energy units. By calculating rainfall intensity and raindrop energy using IMD data, they aim to build a rain energy map and harvest kinetic energy through rooftops and drainage systems.

Water from Air: A Real-World Solution
Another futuristic technology making real-world impact is atmospheric water generation (AWG). Navkaran Singh Bagga, CEO of Akvo, leads the way with machines that pull humidity from the air and turn it into clean drinking water. Operating in 15 countries, Akvo offers eco-friendly, decentralized water systems with zero upfront costs through its BOOT model. The company recently launched the Water-on-Want (WoW) initiative, providing sustainable water solutions to corporates across India.

“AWG offers a reliable and green alternative to depleting water resources,” says Bagga. “It’s scalable, efficient, and built for future resilience.”

Technology and the Himalayas
In the Himalayan region, melting glaciers are altering river flows and threatening water security. Experts like Dr. Dipankar Saha from MRIIRS emphasize the need for urgent intervention. Companies such as Suhora are using satellite data, sensors, and predictive analytics to monitor glacial changes and help reduce disaster risks.

With India home to 18% of the global population but only 4% of freshwater resources, such innovative technologies are not just promising – they’re essential.

To read the full article visit here.