In an interview, Navkaran Singh Bagga, CEO and founder, AKVO, shared with TimesTech how Akvo’s pioneering air-to-water technology is reshaping global water access. Marking National Technology Day 2025, he emphasized innovations like modular Water Blocks, IoT integration, and AI-driven efficiency. Navkaran highlighted Akvo’s mission to provide clean, decentralized water solutions that adapt to diverse climates and deliver real-world impact in addressing growing water scarcity.
Read the full interview here:
TimesTech: On this National Technology Day, how do you see Akvo’s air-to-water innovation reshaping the future of clean water access globally?
Navkaran: Akvo’s air-to-water systems represent a transformative shift in how the world sources drinking water—decentralized, renewable, and independent of ground or surface sources. As climate change intensifies water scarcity, Akvo’s innovation offers a scalable, sustainable solution for communities, businesses, and governments globally. We envision a future where every region, from urban cities to remote villages, can access clean water directly from air, reducing reliance on bottled water, tankers, and fragile natural reserves.
TimesTech: With Akvo generating 100 million litres of water over the past six years, what technological breakthroughs have been most critical in achieving this scale?
Navkaran: Our most significant breakthroughs lie in advanced condensation systems, energy-efficient compressors, modular “Water Block” designs, and IoT-based remote monitoring. These innovations allow us to scale from single units to entire decentralized networks, delivering water sustainably in harsh climates. Continuous R&D on material science, airflow optimization, and integration with renewable energy sources has been pivotal in reaching the 100-million-litre milestone across diverse installations.
TimesTech: India faces unique challenges in water scarcity—how has Akvo adapted its technology to meet the country’s diverse climatic and geographic conditions?
Navkaran: India’s vast diversity requires technological flexibility. Akvo has developed machines optimized for a wide range of humidity and temperature conditions, from coastal regions to arid interiors. We’ve enhanced filtration systems for local air quality, introduced energy-efficient models to address power constraints, and offered modular solutions that fit both rural schools and urban hotels. Our India-first approach ensures that technology adapts to the environment, not the other way around.
TimesTech: From steel manufacturing to clean-tech, your entrepreneurial journey spans very different sectors—how has that shaped your leadership at Akvo?
Navkaran: My journey from steel to clean-tech has taught me resilience, agility, and the importance of reinvention. Manufacturing taught me precision and scale; clean-tech demands vision and empathy. At Akvo, I lead with a balance of operational discipline and an innovation mindset, always focused on creating impact beyond profits. This cross-sectoral experience helps navigate challenges with pragmatism while staying committed to our mission of water sustainability.
TimesTech: What role do you see emerging technologies like IoT and AI playing in the future development of Akvo’s atmospheric water systems?
Navkaran: IoT and AI are critical to Akvo’s future. IoT enables real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and efficient fleet management across geographies. AI will help optimize energy use, predict water yield based on weather patterns, and improve air filtration performance. Together, they will make our systems smarter, more autonomous, and more affordable, ensuring reliable water access even in the most remote or underserved areas.
TimesTech: National Technology Day celebrates innovation with impact—what’s your message to young tech entrepreneurs looking to solve real-world problems like water scarcity?
Navkaran: 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.
