Summary:
- Raul John Aju, just 16 years old, has hired his father at his AI startup, Arm Technologies
- Started learning AI at six; built Me-bot and other tools with real-world applications
- Calls for India to build its own tech leadership through innovation, R&D, and creativity
A Startup with Heart and Vision
At an age when most teenagers are preparing for exams, Raul John Aju is running his own AI company. The Kerala-born prodigy has made headlines by employing his father at his startup, sending a powerful message that innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about values, relationships, and inclusive growth.
From Child Learner to AI Builder
Raul’s journey began at just six years old, when he started exploring artificial intelligence. By 16, he has already built “Me-bot”, an intelligent robot, along with multiple AI tools designed to solve everyday problems. He also shares free tutorials on YouTube and Instagram, proving his mission is not just to create but also to educate and empower others.
A Bold Call for India’s Tech Future
Speaking at the India Today South Conclave 2025 in Coimbatore, Raul urged India to carve its own path in the global tech race. He highlighted the importance of research, development, and creativity over rote learning, warning that manufacturing alone cannot sustain long-term growth.
“India must innovate, not imitate,” he stressed, calling for an education system that produces problem-solvers and creators, not just degree-holders.
Technology with a Purpose
One of Raul’s key initiatives, Project JustEase, developed in collaboration with the governments of Kerala and Dubai, aims to create citizen-centric tools—like AI bots for emergency assistance. His vision of AI with impact stands out in a world often obsessed with hype over substance.
At just 16, Raul is showing that leadership is about courage, purpose, and impact—not age. His story is a reminder that India’s next big leap in tech could come from its youngest innovators.
