Prithwish Kundu (Green Aero)
Overview
Prithwish Kundu is an Indian entrepreneur and the founder of Green Aero, a deeptech startup incubated at IIT Delhi. Known for developing innovative propulsion systems, Kundu has led Green Aero in its mission to create hydrogen-based engines that aim to revolutionize the aviation and defense sectors. His efforts mark a significant stride in India's journey towards self-reliance in the aerospace industry, gaining recognition for enabling sustainable and advanced technology development.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Prithwish Kundu and Green Aero have been at the forefront of technological advancements in the aerospace industry, aiming to disrupt conventional propulsion systems with sustainable alternatives. Significant developments include:
- July 2025: Green Aero secured $1.6 million in seed funding from pi Ventures, with participation from Antler, to advance its efforts in developing hydrogen-powered and high-efficiency engines. The funds are aimed at enhancing R&D, establishing a testing facility, and expanding the engineering team.
- May 2025: Green Aero demonstrated India's first hydrogen-based aero engine core, "The Blue Dragon," showcasing a major milestone in sustainable aviation technology.
- September 2024: The startup raised an initial $240,000 funding led by Rebalance to support early prototype testing and team expansion.
- Green Aero was acknowledged at various platforms for its pioneering innovation in propulsion technologies, marking its presence at the 78th Independence Day celebration hosted by India's President.
- 2024: Green Aero was selected for pi Ventures' funding round, aimed at supporting deeptech startups with a focus on innovative engine solutions for defense and civilian applications.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Prithwish Kundu |
| Born | Not publicly available |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur |
| Known For | Founding Green Aero |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Education | Ph.D. from North Carolina State University |
Early Life and Education
Prithwish Kundu's journey as a technology innovator began during his childhood, driven by a fascination with aviation and engineering. Kundu pursued his undergraduate studies in India before moving to the United States for advanced education in mechanical engineering. He earned his Ph.D. from North Carolina State University, specializing in propulsion and combustion technologies.
During his research stint at Argonne National Laboratory, Kundu made substantial contributions to propulsion technology development, working alongside federal agencies such as NASA and the US Army. This exposure equipped him with vital expertise that he later funneled into his entrepreneurial pursuits, setting the stage for the foundation of Green Aero.
Career and Notable Achievements
Prithwish Kundu's career trajectory is defined by a series of key milestones:
- Argonne National Laboratory: Kundu served as a research scientist, gaining invaluable experience in propulsion systems and collaborating with top aerospace organizations like NASA.
- Founding Green Aero: Established in 2023, Green Aero was incubated at IIT Delhi under Kundu's leadership to focus on hydrogen-powered propulsion systems.
- Notable Achievements:
- Successfully test-fired India's first hydrogen aero engine core, The Blue Dragon.
- Secured substantial seed funding to support R&D initiatives.
- Positioned as a frontrunner in next-generation propulsion technology solutions, particularly in defense and aviation sectors.
- Publications and Research: Authored multiple research papers in combustion and propulsion technologies, with significant citations reflecting the impact of his work in the academic and engineering communities.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Prithwish Kundu continues to lead Green Aero in advancing India's aerospace capabilities. By focusing on sustainable propulsion solutions, Kundu aims to reduce reliance on imported technology, fostering indigenous development alternatives.
Under his guidance, Green Aero is moving towards commercializing next-generation propulsion systems that provide high efficiency and sustainability. The company's focus extends to applications in aerospace, naval, and civil aviation, with a particular emphasis on utilizing hydrogen as a clean fuel source.
Conclusion
Prithwish Kundu's work through Green Aero exemplifies the innovative spirit driving the future of aerospace technology in India. By setting new benchmarks in sustainability and efficiency, Kundu and his team are poised to make significant contributions to reducing aviation's carbon footprint and enhancing India's technological independence.
As Green Aero progresses, Kundu's vision of leading the global charge in hydrogen-powered propulsion systems represents a promising future for eco-friendly transportation solutions worldwide.