Summary
Mansukh Prajapati, inspired by an earthquake, created a clay fridge that works without electricity and is sold in India and other countries. His invention is an example of "frugal tech," which involves making affordable and accessible solutions for everyday problems. Another entrepreneur, Bijayshanti Tongbram, is using lotus stems to make yarn, providing jobs for local women.
Key Facts
- Mansukh Prajapati invented a fridge made from clay that doesn't need electricity.
- He started experimenting with making the fridge after an earthquake destroyed his family's home and business.
- It took him four years and significant financial risk to develop a working prototype.
- The clay fridge, called MittiCool, sells for $95 and is available in 300 Indian stores and internationally.
- Frugal tech means creating low-cost and simple solutions to solve problems.
- Bijayshanti Tongbram uses lotus stems to make silk-like yarn, involving 30 women from her village.
- These innovations are part of grassroots entrepreneurship in India, providing rural jobs and economic change.
