Biography of Arun Agarwal: Founder and CEO of Janitri-Entrepreneur
Arun Agarwal’s Journey with Janitri
Roots and Early Challenges
Arun Agarwal, hailing from Alwar in Rajasthan, grew up
witnessing the stark realities of maternal and infant health complications.
These personal experiences deeply affected him, especially when he encountered
tragic stories of loss during childbirth in his community. These challenges
ignited his resolve to make a significant impact in the field of maternal
health.
Academic Foundations
Arun’s journey began at the Vellore Institute of Technology
(VIT), where he pursued a B.Tech in Electronics, followed by an M.Tech in
Biomedical Engineering. His academic pursuits laid a solid foundation for
understanding both technology and its applications in healthcare, equipping him
with the skills needed to address the pressing health issues he had witnessed.
Initial Steps in Innovation
During his undergraduate and graduate studies, Arun’s
passion for robotics and technology flourished. He led several robotics
initiatives and organized large-scale events like RoboFest and graVITas, which
showcased his leadership and innovation skills. These experiences were crucial
in shaping his approach to problem-solving and entrepreneurship.
Career Beginnings and Patents
After completing his education, Arun worked as a research
associate at Evalueserve, focusing on intellectual property in the healthcare
sector. This role involved analyzing patents and understanding the
technological landscape, which proved invaluable for his future endeavors in
medical device innovation.
Turning Vision into Reality
In 2016, Arun founded Janitri, a startup dedicated to
improving maternal and infant health. His goal was to address the high maternal
and infant mortality rates in India by developing innovative medical devices
that could monitor vital signs effectively. This mission was driven by his
firsthand observations of the gaps in healthcare services.
Social Innovation Fellowship
Arun’s commitment to social impact was further strengthened
by his involvement with the BIRAC SIIP fellowship. This program supported him
in deepening his understanding of maternal and child health issues and provided
resources to develop a viable solution. The fellowship also facilitated
clinical immersion, allowing him to interact with healthcare professionals and
refine his product.
Shark Tank India Breakthrough
Janitri gained widespread recognition when Arun appeared on
Shark Tank India. His pitch captivated the investors, leading to a significant
investment of Rs 1 crore from Namita Thapar for 2.5% equity. This milestone was
a testament to the innovative nature of Janitri’s technology and its potential
to make a meaningful impact.
Technology and Development
Janitri’s flagship product, the Keyar Patch, represents a significant advancement in maternal monitoring. This wearable device tracks fetal heart rate, maternal pulse rate, and uterine contractions. It connects to a mobile app, Daksh, which provides real-time data and alerts for potential complications, thereby improving the quality of care.
Biography of Arun Agarwal: Founder and CEO of Janitri-Indian Entrepreneur /maternal and infant health/Keyar Patch & Daksh app/Arun Agarwal story/Janitr
Addressing a Critical Need
The Keyar Patch and Daksh app address a critical need in
maternal healthcare, particularly in regions with limited resources. By
providing continuous, non-invasive monitoring, Janitri helps healthcare
providers make informed decisions and intervene promptly in case of
complications, reducing risks for both mothers and babies.
Financial and Operational Challenges
Despite the promising technology, Janitri faced financial
and operational challenges. With a monthly burn rate of Rs 15 lakhs and a
revenue of Rs 1.03 crore for FY 21-22, managing costs and scaling operations
were ongoing concerns. However, the support from various funding sources,
including BIRAC and government grants, provided crucial backing.
Impact and Reach
Janitri’s technology aims to significantly reduce the high
maternal and infant mortality rates in India. By offering a product that
ensures continuous monitoring and early detection of issues, Janitri
contributes to a safer childbirth experience. The company’s mission aligns with
the broader goal of improving healthcare outcomes in developing countries.
Community and Industry Impact
Arun’s work with Janitri has not only advanced technology
but also influenced the healthcare industry’s approach to maternal health. By
focusing on both innovation and social impact, Janitri sets a precedent for how
technology can be harnessed to address critical health challenges in
underserved areas.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Janitri plans to continue expanding its
product offerings, including the development of Navam, a wearable to track
fetal movement. This ongoing innovation reflects Arun’s commitment to evolving
the solutions available for maternal and infant care, ensuring that more lives
can be saved.
Personal and Professional Growth
Arun’s journey from a concerned individual to a successful
entrepreneur highlights the power of passion and perseverance. His experiences,
from his educational background to his work with Janitri, illustrate how
personal challenges can be transformed into powerful solutions that benefit
society.
Conclusion
Arun Agarwal’s story is a compelling example of how dedication
and innovation can address critical health issues. Through Janitri, he has not
only developed cutting-edge technology but also made a significant impact on
maternal and infant health. His journey continues to inspire and pave the way
for future advancements in healthcare.
Timeline for Arun Agarwal’s story
Early 2000s: Arun Agarwal witnesses maternal and infant
health challenges in his community in Alwar, Rajasthan.
2008-2012: Completes B.Tech in Electronics and M.Tech in
Biomedical Engineering at VIT, focusing on technology and healthcare.
2012-2014: Leads robotics initiatives and organizes RoboFest
and graVITas during his studies.
2014-2016: Works as a research associate at Evalueserve,
analyzing patents in the healthcare sector.
2016: Founds Janitri to develop innovative medical devices for
maternal and infant health.
2017: Joins BIRAC SIIP fellowship, deepening his
understanding of maternal and child health issues.
2020: Appears on Shark Tank India; receives Rs 1 crore
investment from Namita Thapar for 2.5% equity.
2021: Launches the Keyar Patch and Daksh app, providing
continuous maternal monitoring and real-time data.
FY 21-22: Faces financial challenges with a monthly burn
rate of Rs 15 lakhs and a revenue of Rs 1.03 crore.
2022-2023: Continues to expand Janitri’s product offerings,
including the development of Navam to track fetal movement.
Future: Plans to further innovate and expand Janitri’s
impact on maternal and infant healthcare, aiming to improve outcomes and save
lives.
