Srinagar, March 16: A two-month-long entrepreneurship awareness programme aimed at fostering innovation and business development concluded across multiple clusters in the Kashmir amid overwhelming response.
Organised by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, NIT Srinagar, in collaboration with MSME PPDC, the initiative sought to educate and empower young individuals with entrepreneurial skills and knowledge of MSME schemes. The programme was sponsored by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India. To ensure maximum outreach, the Kashmir Valley was divided into three clusters–Cluster 1: Srinagar, Bandipora and Ganderbal, Cluster 2: Pulwama, Anantnag, Kishtwar and Kulgam and Cluster 3: Kupwara, Baramulla, Budgam and Shopian
Throughout the two-month programme, nearly 1,000 aspiring entrepreneurs received valuable insights into business development strategies, funding opportunities, and emerging technologies. The initiative was conducted in collaboration with Government Degree Colleges and various training institutes, ensuring accessibility to students and professionals alike. The Chief Patron of the workshop was Prof. Binodh Kumar Kanaujia (Director, NIT Srinagar), with key patrons including Prof. Atikur Rahman (Registrar), Prof. M.F. Wani (MED), Prof. G.A. Harmain (MED), Prof. Sheikh Nazir Ahmed (MED), and Prof. Roohi Naaz Mir (Dean R&C). The Chairpersons were Prof. M.M. Wani (HoD, MED) and Prof. Adnan Qoyum (MED).
In her message, in-charge Director Prof. Roohi Naaz highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship in economic development, stating that, “This initiative was designed to equip young minds with the necessary skills and knowledge to start their own ventures. The overwhelming response from youth across the valley is truly encouraging.” One of the programme’s standout achievements was a significant rise in women’s participation, with a 60:40 male-to-female ratio. This milestone was achieved through a special focus on women empowerment initiatives, encouraging more female entrepreneurs to step forward.
Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Nodal Officer of the MSME ESDP Scheme, provided an overview of the programme, which focused on technology-driven entrepreneurship ventures, including–3D Printing and Laser Engraving, Handicrafts, Crochet and Embroidery, Drone Technology and Internet of Things (IoT), Digital Marketing and E-commerce, Soap Making, Willow Wicker and Wood Carving, Cybersecurity, Robotics and Public Speaking. A notable outcome of the programme was that over 100 young entrepreneurs successfully registered their businesses under MSME by completing the Udyam registration process. The programme concluded on a high note, with organisers reaffirming their commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir. With its growing focus on skill development and startup incubation, NIT Srinagar continues to be a pioneering force in empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs in the region.
