An unexpected opportunity during a Chennai Metro journey gave entrepreneur Tejas Parthasarathi Sudarshan around 90 seconds to share his vision for artificial intelligence in India with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The founder of applied AI startup Winsen Labs presented 2 proposals focused on improving AI education and simplifying access to government services.
Sudarshan was among 17 founders shortlisted by SPI Chennai for an interaction with the Prime Minister and other dignitaries during their journey from the airport to Poonamallee Metro station and back. In a video recounting the experience, he said he initially believed he had lost his opportunity to speak when the train reached the airport station as his turn arrived.
However, Modi asked whether they had reached the station and suggested hearing from the remaining participants. This gave Sudarshan the chance to present his ideas within the available 90 seconds.
His first proposal focused on helping students become more skilled in using AI. He suggested that government departments collaborate with universities and students to provide practical projects based on real-world problems. This approach would allow students to apply their knowledge to meaningful challenges while remaining accountable for their outcomes.
His second idea involved creating a unified, AI-powered government service desk. Under this proposed system, citizens could submit their cases and upload documents once instead of approaching multiple departments separately. An AI agent would then track requests and direct them to the relevant departments for action.
Sudarshan said the dignitaries listened to his proposals and asked questions before his allotted time ended. He also noted that the other selected founders were working across several fields, including airport logistics, green propulsion systems for rockets and chip design.
Sudarshan founded Winsen Labs to explore practical applications of artificial intelligence. According to his LinkedIn profile, he previously worked at KPMG India and founded another company, Fanpit. He completed his bachelor’s degree in business and commerce at the University of Madras between 2018 and 2021. He also pursued the Chartered Accountancy qualification through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India between 2018 and 2022.
In a separate LinkedIn post, Sudarshan reflected on how his interest in technology and education had developed over the years. He recalled addressing his school during the 2017 School Pupil Leader elections, when he proposed introducing Google Classroom to improve learning through technology.
Nearly 9 years later, he presented another education-focused idea, this time highlighting how AI could help make India’s students more capable and prepared for the future.
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