Incubation Team
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Dr. Hrishikesh A. Tavanandi
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Dr. Hrishikesh A. Tavanandi is a distinguished researcher and innovation leader with over 15 years of experience in Food Process Engineering and Biotechnology. Specializing in membrane technology, drying of microorganisms, and equipment design for Indian traditional foods, he brings a rare blend of academic depth and practical insight.
He has been recognized with top national honors including the INSA Medal for Young Scientists (2021) and the Best Research Fellow Award from CSIR-CFTRI (2017-18). Dr. Hrishikesh has actively contributed to grassroots entrepreneurship by coordinating over 40 capacity-building programs, impacting more than 1,500 farmers and food entrepreneurs.
As CEO of GSSSTBIF, he drives the vision of inclusive innovation and startup support, with a strong focus on food technology, bio-entrepreneurship, and societal transformation through science-based enterprises.
G. Vivek Bharadwaj
Incubation Manager
Vivek Bharadwaj is a passionate enabler of early-stage innovation with over 8 years of experience in startup incubation, ecosystem development, and academic-industry collaborations. With a strong academic foundation in Mechanical and Thermal Engineering, his interests span sustainable technologies, food processing, mobility, and renewable energy.
At GSSSTBIF, Vivek oversees the incubation programs, startup mentoring, innovation strategy, and outreach initiatives. He has a proven track record in building effective support systems for entrepreneurs, organizing national innovation events, and connecting startups with funding and mentorship opportunities.
His mission is to empower change-makers and innovators by providing the right mix of infrastructure, advisory, and growth pathways under the DST-NIDHI-iTBI framework.
Sanjay Pande S. R.
Incubation Associate
Sanjay Pande S. R. brings a unique blend of financial acumen and operational efficiency to the GSSSTBIF team. With a background in commerce and management, and prior experience in finance and administration, he ensures smooth coordination of incubation activities and supports program delivery.
His expertise includes documentation, vendor coordination, purchase management, and compliance with institutional and government guidelines. Known for his discipline and team spirit, Sanjay plays a vital role in daily incubator functions, making sure that systems are responsive and entrepreneur-friendly.
His commitment to excellence and his ability to multitask make him an invaluable support pillar for the incubation team.
Kusuma B.
Accountant
Kusuma B. is a finance professional with nearly a decade of experience in institutional accounting and administration. Prior to joining GSSSTBIF, she served in key finance roles in multi-specialty hospitals, where she handled government and insurance billing, reimbursements, and internal audits.
At GSSSTBIF, she manages all accounting operations, ensuring transparency, compliance, and timely reporting. Her mastery over accounting systems, attention to detail, and dependable nature help maintain robust financial governance for the incubator.
She contributes significantly to enabling a seamless backend for startup funding, grants utilization, and statutory obligations.
Dr. Hrishikesh A. Tavanandi
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
G. Vivek Bharadwaj
Incubation Manager
Sanjay Pandey S. R.
Director, GSSSTBIF
