The CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) Jammu successfully concluded its National Startup Festival (NSF) on February 23, celebrating remarkable success stories of innovation and entrepreneurial growth across Jammu & Kashmir.
The two-day festival, inaugurated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, attracted participants from various sectors, including entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, and students. On the first day, the event drew numerous visitors, and by the end of the festival, more than 800 people had attended, engaging with presentations and exhibitions showcasing innovative startup ideas.
Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director of CSIR-IIIM, noted, \"Dr. Jitendra Singh has not only mentored the institute’s strengths in pre-clinical drug discovery but has also galvanised agri-entrepreneurship by setting up two incubators to support startups.\" This statement underlines the Institute's dual focus on drug development and agricultural innovations.
One of the highlights included the signing of a Grant-in-aid Letter Agreement (GLA) for the establishment of a new incubator at the Industrial Biotech Park, Ghatti, Kathua, witnessed by Dr. Jitendra Singh.
During the festival, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed awarded certificates to 45 startups, recognizing their innovative contributions. These startups originated from various locations across India, showcasing diversity and creativity. Some notable participants included M/s Herbal Aura, M/s Gaurico, and M/s Chenab Valley Zaitoon Tel Ltd. The enthusiastic participation of students from various degree colleges added vibrancy to the event.
The exhibition provided valuable networking opportunities, allowing seasoned professionals to connect with budding entrepreneurs. The interactions facilitated discussions on funding, mentorship, and technological innovation, which are pivotal for startup growth.
Students and young innovators were seen engaging actively, demonstrating their inventive ideas and projects. This involvement signifies the growing interest of youth in entrepreneurship and innovation within the region, as they are taught the importance of turning ideas to reality.
Despite the challenges faced by startups, the positive atmosphere of the festival seems to have inspired many. Participants expressed optimism about the future of startups, fostering hope for continued innovation post-event.
The success of the NSFestival demonstrates the commitment of CSIR-IIIM and various stakeholders to not only boost entrepreneurship but also create supportive ecosystems for innovative ventures to flourish.
Moving forward, the vision presented during this festival reflects optimism and ambition, especially with the establishment of new incubation centres with dedicated resources aimed at nurturing upcoming startups.
The National Startup Festival, guided by the efforts of notable figures such as Dr. Jitendra Singh and Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, is set to leave its mark, marking the beginning of transformative initiatives aiming to uplift entrepreneurs across Jammu & Kashmir.