Maithri Aquatech, a Hyderabad-based climate tech startup, has secured strategic investment from DP World, marking a pivotal moment for India’s burgeoning climate tech sector. The global ports and logistics giant has acquired a 14% stake in Maithri Aquatech, although the financial details of the deal remain undisclosed. This investment not only brings capital but signifies a growing trend of global corporates showing interest in Indian climate innovations, beyond traditional venture capital.
### The Startup Behind the Water-from-Air Technology
Founded in 2016 by Ramkrishna Mukkavilli, Maithri Aquatech has developed the Meghdoot technology, which translates to “messenger of the clouds” in Sanskrit. The technology was created in collaboration with the CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology in Hyderabad. Meghdoot is an atmospheric water generation system that extracts moisture from the air, condenses it, and purifies it through a multi-stage filtration and remineralisation process. This method produces clean water without relying on groundwater or surface water, and it avoids the brackish wastewater associated with desalination.
Related Posts
Maithri Aquatech’s systems have collectively generated over 5 billion litres of water, conserving approximately 15 billion litres of groundwater. These machines are deployed by Indian Railways, ONGC offshore oil rigs, and several state government schools. The company reported revenue of Rs 15.2 crore for the fiscal year ending March 2025. DP World’s investment aligns with its goal of achieving a net positive water impact by 2030, providing its water-scarce sites a sustainable solution for freshwater generation.
### What the Deal Signals for Indian Climate Tech
India’s climate tech sector has experienced rapid growth, with funding increasing from $315 million in 2020 to $2.6 billion in 2025, as reported by Tracxn’s India Climate Tech 2026 report. However, a study by IIMA Ventures and Japan’s MUFG Bank highlighted that less than 3% of Indian climate tech startups have progressed beyond Series B funding. DP World’s direct investment in Maithri Aquatech addresses this funding gap, offering not only financial resources but also a global customer network and credibility that can attract further investment.
### How Does a Machine Make Drinking Water Out of Thin Air?
The concept behind atmospheric water generation is similar to how dehumidifiers and air conditioners operate by removing moisture from the air. The system cools the air until the vapour condenses into liquid form. This water is then filtered to remove impurities, and minerals are added to ensure it is safe and palatable for consumption. Such systems are particularly effective in warm, humid climates, making them well-suited for India’s coastal regions.
For Maithri Aquatech, DP World’s investment presents an opportunity to expand its reach into international ports and logistics hubs. For India’s climate tech ecosystem, this deal suggests a shift towards more sustainable strategic investments from global corporations. This could pave the way for Indian startups with proven technologies to secure the backing needed to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges.
The investment by DP World in Maithri Aquatech could set a precedent for other global corporations to invest in innovative Indian climate tech solutions. For founders and investors, this signifies a potential increase in strategic partnerships and funding opportunities. The next development to watch will be how Maithri Aquatech leverages this partnership to scale its operations internationally and whether other climate tech startups can attract similar strategic investments.
