Jammu, Jan 24: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the ‘BRICS Youth Council Entrepreneurship Run-up Event’ at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu today.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor extended his congratulations to the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the Global Counter Terrorism Council (GCTC), IIM Jammu, and all associated departments for providing an impactful platform for innovators, aspiring entrepreneurs, and youth leaders to present innovative business ideas and entrepreneurial initiatives.
Highlighting the transformative initiatives by the government, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized the role of the Department of Industries & Commerce in reshaping Jammu & Kashmir’s (J&K) innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, empowering the youth of the Union Territory.
“In recent years, J&K’s industrial ecosystem has seen an unprecedented surge, supporting a culture of innovation, research and development, and scientific advancements. My vision is to see our youth among the top entrepreneurs in the country, contributing significantly to its growth,” Lieutenant Governor Sinha remarked.
He acknowledged the government’s efforts and policy interventions that have helped make J&K a vibrant startup hub. The Lieutenant Governor also shared key initiatives such as Mission Yuva, aimed at developing a robust business support ecosystem for the enterprising youth of the region. He added that reforms in the education sector are being implemented with a strong focus on skilling youth in Industry 4.0 technologies.
“We are continuously working on policies to promote incubation centers and offer better resources to help set up new startups. I want our youth to dream big, dedicate themselves, and propel J&K’s growth to new heights,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also stressed the importance of bridging the disconnect between academia and industry to address future challenges. He noted that human resources must be equipped with the skills required by the market and industries to remain competitive.
Speaking about the significance of youth entrepreneurship, the Lieutenant Governor remarked that it is crucial not just for India, but for the entire world, with both Global North and Global South countries looking to harness their demographic dividend to tackle the developmental challenges of the 21st century.
On the industrial revolution unfolding in Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the visible results of the Central Sector Industrial Development Scheme, which is transforming the region’s industrial landscape.
He also underscored the pivotal role of educational institutions and youth in developing India as a knowledge economy and realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Prof. BS Sahay, Director of IIM Jammu, shared the institute’s vision of nurturing young business leaders and entrepreneurs. The event also featured a detailed presentation on the key objectives of Mission Yuva.
Attendees at the event included Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; SP Vaid, former DGP of J&K; Heads of Departments; senior officials; members of the Global Counter Terrorism Council; young entrepreneurs; innovators; youth leaders; and industry experts.
