New Delhi, India – [6th March] – In a landmark achievement, Karthik Raja Karnan, the CEO & Founder of MADique Technologies, has been honored as one of India’s Top 100 MSMEs at the India SME 100 Awards 2025. The prestigious recognition comes after an overwhelming nomination process involving 27,500+ MSMEs from across the nation.
The 11th edition of the India SME Awards, hosted by Axis Bank in partnership with the India SME Forum, was held in New Delhi and was attended by eminent dignitaries, including Hon’ble Sushri Shobha Karandlaje (Minister of State, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Ministry of MSME), Shri Amitabh Chaudhry (MD & CEO, Axis Bank), Mr. Vijay Shetty (President & Head – Commercial Banking Group, Axis Bank), and Shri Prahlad Kakkar (Chairman, India SME Forum).
The winners were evaluated on various parameters, including growth performance, financial strength, innovation, corporate governance, and international outlook. This award solidifies MADique Technologies’ standing as a game-changer in the automation industry and a torchbearer for MSME innovation in India.
Celebrating Excellence in MSME Innovation and Growth
The India SME 100 Awards 2025 recognized enterprises across diverse industries such as technology, manufacturing, healthcare, finance, agriculture, and consumer goods. This year’s winners represent India’s entrepreneurial spirit, with states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh leading the awards tally.
Speaking at the event, Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO of Axis Bank, emphasized the importance of MSMEs in India’s economic development:
“India’s MSMEs are the engines of progress, shaping the nation’s economic destiny with their ingenuity and determination. At Axis Bank, we are proud to support MSMEs, helping them transform challenges into opportunities. As these enterprises scale new frontiers, they reinforce India’s position as a global economic powerhouse.”
Shri Prahlad Kakkar, Chairman, India SME Forum, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the awards serve as an inspiration for future entrepreneurs:
“MSMEs are the backbone of our economy. Their resilience, innovation, and determination continue to drive India’s growth. The India SME 100 Awards not only recognize achievements but also motivate businesses to strive for greater success.”
MADique Technologies: Pioneering Automation for Small and Medium Enterprises
Founded by Karthik Raja Karnan, MADique Technologies has emerged as a leader in automation by making food processing solutions accessible and affordable for small businesses. The company’s innovations have helped over 3,000 entrepreneurs across 30+ countries, empowering them to establish and grow their own businesses.
The company gained national and global recognition with the launch of the world’s smallest automatic idiyappam machine, a feat that earned a place in the Kalam Book of World Records. Under Karthik’s visionary leadership, MADique Technologies continues to revolutionize food automation, bridging the gap between traditional food production and cutting-edge technology.
Beyond Business: A Vision for Social Impact and Sustainability
Beyond its technological achievements, MADique Technologies has embedded social responsibility and sustainability at the heart of its business.
1. Inclusivity and Support for Marginalized Communities
MADique Technologies actively supports differently-abled individuals, ex-military personnel, and families of active-duty military members through a 10% discount initiative. By making food automation machines more accessible, Karthik ensures that individuals from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to build independent and sustainable businesses.
2. Education for Empowerment
In alignment with his passion for education, Karthik gifts every customer a copy of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s biography, encouraging entrepreneurs to embrace lifelong learning, innovation, and perseverance—values that have shaped his own journey.
3. Environmental Sustainability: A Greener Future
Inspired by Dr. Kalam’s vision for a sustainable India, MADique Technologies has launched a tree-planting initiative, where customers receive free seed balls enriched with nutrients and fertilizers with every machine purchase. This initiative fosters afforestation, promotes environmental awareness, and encourages collective action toward a greener planet.
Empowering Lives Through the Smiles of India Foundation
Karthik Raja Karnan’s commitment to philanthropy and social upliftment extends beyond MADique Technologies. As the co-founder of the Smiles of India Foundation, he has integrated social responsibility into the company’s core business model.
For every machine purchased, ₹500 is donated to the Smiles of India Foundation in the customer’s name. These contributions are directed toward social initiatives, including providing food and educational materials to underprivileged children.
This initiative not only supports children’s education and well-being but also allows MADique’s customers to be active participants in creating positive social change.
The Entrepreneurial Journey of Karthik Raja Karnan: A Story of Determination and Innovation
Born in Salem, Tamil Nadu, Karthik Raja Karnan’s journey from a middle-class upbringing to a celebrated entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. His early passion for problem-solving and innovation led him to pursue a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at the Knowledge Institute of Technology, Salem.
Despite receiving a lucrative job offer from Titan after graduating in 2016, Karthik chose the entrepreneurial path. He founded MADique Technologies in a small car shed, working tirelessly to create affordable automation solutions for small businesses.
Through dedication, resilience, and an unwavering vision, Karthik transformed his startup into an internationally recognized brand, earning prestigious accolades like:
• India SME 100 Award (2025) • Kalam Book of World Records for Innovation •Exporting to 30+ countries and empowering 3,000+ entrepreneurs globally
His mission is to empower 10,000 entrepreneurs by 2030, leveraging automation, skill development, and social impact initiatives.
A Future-Forward Vision: Expanding Impact and Innovation
As MADique Technologies celebrates this milestone, Karthik Raja Karnan remains committed to expanding his vision. His focus on innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability continues to set new industry benchmarks, driving India’s MSME sector toward a brighter future.
“Entrepreneurship is not just about building businesses—it’s about empowering people, solving real-world problems, and leaving a lasting impact on society. Through MADique Technologies and Smiles of India Foundation, we are working to create a future where success is shared, and every entrepreneur has the tools to thrive.” – Karthik Raja Karnan
About MADique Technologies
MADique Technologies is a pioneering automation solutions provider, dedicated to empowering small businesses with innovative food processing technology. With a presence in 30+ countries and a customer base of 3,000+ entrepreneurs, MADique continues to lead the industry with cutting-edge innovations and a commitment to social impact.