Diplomat Desk
Jammu,(DD): The serene campus of IIM Jammu came alive today as Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the much-anticipated ‘BRICS Youth Council Entrepreneurship Run-up Event’, a dynamic gathering of young innovators, aspiring entrepreneurs, and industry experts.
The event served as a springboard for showcasing groundbreaking business ideas and fostering entrepreneurial talent among youth.
Addressing a hall brimming with ambition and energy, LG Sinha lauded the collective efforts of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the Global Counter Terrorism Council (GCTC), and IIM Jammu in creating a platform that celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of young minds.
“Jammu and Kashmir has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years,” Sinha said, his tone filled with optimism. “Our industrial ecosystem has seen unprecedented growth, embracing innovation, research, and development. I want to see J&K’s youth among the top entrepreneurs of the country, driving India’s growth story forward.”
The Rise of J&K’s Startup Ecosystem
The Lieutenant Governor’s address painted a vivid picture of a vibrant startup culture taking root in the Union Territory. He credited the Department of Industries & Commerce for its transformative initiatives, including Mission Yuva, a flagship program aimed at creating a nurturing ecosystem for young entrepreneurs.
“Our sincere policy interventions have made J&K a hub for startups,” Sinha declared. “We are committed to promoting incubation centers and providing the resources and support needed for startups to thrive. I urge our youth to dream big, dedicate themselves, and shape a dynamic J&K that propels its growth trajectory to new heights.”
Building Bridges Between Academia and Industry
Sinha also emphasized the critical need to bridge the gap between academia and industry. “The disconnect must end. We need to equip our youth with the skills demanded by the market,” he said, calling for reforms to align education with the needs of Industry 4.0.
He highlighted the global significance of youth entrepreneurship, noting that both developed and developing nations are looking to their youth to address the pressing challenges of the 21st century.
Visible Transformation in J&K’s Industrial Landscape
The Lieutenant Governor shared success stories stemming from the Central Sector Industrial Development Scheme, which has sparked an industrial revolution in the region. “The results are visible across J&K,” he noted with pride.
Youth as Drivers of Knowledge Economy
In a powerful closing remark, Sinha envisioned educational institutions and young leaders playing a pivotal role in transforming India into a global knowledge economy. “Our youth are the architects of a developed India,” he said, referring to the country’s vision of Viksit Bharat.
Event Highlights and Participation
The event also featured a presentation on Mission Yuva, outlining its objectives to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director of IIM Jammu, shared the institute’s commitment to developing business leaders of tomorrow.
The gathering was graced by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, former DGP S.P. Vaid, senior officials, members of GCTC, and a host of young entrepreneurs, innovators, and youth leaders.
As the day unfolded, it became clear that the seeds of innovation planted today have the potential to grow into transformative ventures, with the youth of J&K leading the charge.(DD)
