From rural Assam to innovation spotlight: 20-year-old builds low-cost tech for society

At a time when India is pushing for grassroots innovation and affordable technology, a 20-year-old youth from rural Assam has emerged as a symbol of ingenuity and determination. Dhritiraj Choudhury, a young innovator from Makhibaha village of Tihu under Nalbari district, has gained wide attention for developing practical, low-cost mechanical and electrical devices from a modest workshop set up inside his home.

Working with extremely limited tools and minimal financial resources, Dhritiraj has successfully designed and built several innovative machines, including a low-cost electric loom, a modern railway gate crossing system, and a speed control mechanism. His inventions, aimed at improving safety and easing physical labour, have impressed experts and locals alike.

Dhritiraj’s passion for technology began at an early age. While most children his age were engaged in games and leisure, he spent his time dismantling machines to understand their inner workings and experimenting with new ideas. Despite being an arts stream student during his school years, his strong inclination towards science and technical creativity led him to actively participate in science workshops, training programmes, and exhibitions, where he earned recognition as one of the best performers on multiple occasions.

Currently pursuing his studies at Mushalpur Polytechnic in Baksa district, Dhritiraj prioritises hands-on learning alongside academics. His most notable innovation, a cost-effective electric loom, is designed to reduce the physical strain faced by traditional weavers in Assam and improve workplace safety. Experts believe the device has the potential to significantly benefit small-scale weavers and cottage industries.

In addition, motivated by concerns over public safety, he independently developed a model of a modern railway gate crossing system and a speed control device aimed at preventing accidents—demonstrating his commitment to socially relevant innovation.

Supported by his family and driven by self-belief, Dhritiraj continues to carry out his experiments from his home-based workshop. His journey from a curious child to a promising young innovator reflects the untapped potential of rural India’s youth.

Looking ahead, Dhritiraj expressed his determination to acquire advanced technical knowledge and develop more innovations that can contribute to societal welfare and national development.