To address the challenges and explore opportunities within the Jammu and Kashmir startup ecosystem, the University of Kashmir (KU) Tuesday hosted a daylong startup consultative meet here bringing together local incubator heads, early-stage startup founders from diverse industries and experts in the field, alongside numerous students from various university departments.
Titled ‘J&K Startup Ecosystem – Challenges and Opportunities’, the event was organised by the varsity’s New Generation Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Centre (NewGen IEDC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) Startup Hub to nurture a vibrant entrepreneurial landscape, emphasising the importance of ongoing support for local startups.
KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofer Khan congratulated the programme organisers for their revitalisation efforts at the NewGen IEDC while highlighting sectors like hospitality, agriculture and tourism as growth areas.
“We must create inclusive plans that empower everyone, including differently-abled individuals. Success stories from startups can inspire our students to become the next generation of entrepreneurs,” she asserted.
Dean, College Development Council, Prof Khursheed Ahmad Butt, addressed the challenges startups face, including the youth’s preference for white-collar jobs and the migration of skilled talent.
“While challenges are present, our region is rich in resources and culture. With the right support, we can turn these challenges into opportunities for innovation,” he maintained.
KU Registrar, Prof Naseer Iqbal, highlighted the changing job landscape, emphasising the urgent need for individuals to transition from job seekers to job creators.
Programme Director, MeitY Startup Hub, Omkarnath Suprabath Rath, shared insights into MeitY’s initiatives to promote entrepreneurship, such as the SMRIDHI initiative and support for startups in smaller cities.
Coordinator, NewGen IEDC, Dr Sartaj Hussain, in his welcome address, provided an overview of the centre’s activities and also outlined the objectives of the consultative meet.
The event showcased inspiring journeys from emerging startups in the Kashmir Valley, such as Kashmir Box, CredAgro, and SkyRobo Drones.
