The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Nov 10: In a collaborative effort to propel innovation and entrepreneurship in the picturesque valley of Kashmir, the National Innovation Foundation (NIF) – India, partnered with the University of Kashmir and NIF Incubation and Entrepreneurship Council (NIFientreC) for a day-long workshop on 8th November 2023. The event, titled “Inclusive Development through Entrepreneurial Advancement (IDEA),” gathered stakeholders to discuss strategies for leveraging the untapped potential of Jammu and Kashmir through skill development and innovation-driven entrepreneurship.
Dr. Vipin Kumar, Chief Scientist at NIF, emphasized the crucial role of ecosystem builders in supporting entrepreneurs to grow exponentially. Dr. Praveen Roy from the Department of Science and Technology highlighted the importance of adapting and pivoting in the modern startup landscape.
Chetan Krishnaswamy, Vice President of Public Policy at Amazon India, commended the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in J&K, expressing confidence in the region’s ability to produce global brands through flagship programs like Karigar, Saheli, and Global Selling.
Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, Registrar of the University of Kashmir, provided insights into the university’s recent initiatives aimed at fostering innovation in the valley.
The roundtable facilitated a platform for grassroots innovators to share their achievements and challenges, with GR8 SPORTS India representing the formal sector. Entrepreneurs conveyed growing expectations from the government, particularly in terms of ease of doing business and steps to bridge gaps and build resilience.
Representatives from various organizations, both within and outside the valley, attended the event. Key takeaways included a heightened focus on awareness, financial literacy, data-driven insights, youth sensitization activities, equity-based financing models, and mentorship programs. The discussions aimed at creating a roadmap for inclusive development that harnesses the entrepreneurial potential of Kashmir while addressing challenges and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
