JKEDI conducts Startup Idea Boot Camps in Rajouri, Ganderbal, Poonch
Jammu/Srinagar, Aug 31: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) continued its mission to foster innovation and empower youth by organising Startup Idea Challenge – Boot Camps at Government P.G. College Rajouri, Government Degree College Ganderbal, and Government Degree College Surankote (Poonch). Held under the J&K Startup Policy 2024–2027, the events saw enthusiastic participation from students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and faculty members.
At Government P.G. College Rajouri, over 150 students attended the program, which was inaugurated by Prof. Zameer Ahmad Mirza, Principal of the college, who emphasized the role of entrepreneurship in youth empowerment. Mehraj-ud-Din Bhat, District Nodal Officer (JKEDI Rajouri), shared details of the Startup Policy, while Adil Rasool, Manager Estates JKEDI, guided students on pitching startup ideas. Dr. Reyaz Ahmad, I/C IQAC Cell, delivered a motivational address. Out of 20 participants who presented their ideas before a jury comprising JKEDI officials, J&K Bank representatives, and senior faculty members, three ideas were shortlisted for the next stage.
In Ganderbal, the boot camp was inaugurated by Prof. Fouzia Fatima, Principal of Government Degree College, who praised JKEDI’s efforts in encouraging youth entrepreneurship. Ten aspiring entrepreneurs pitched their ideas before an expert panel.
Muhammad Rafiq Mir, DNO JKEDI Ganderbal, highlighted startups’ role in building resilient economies, while Sajad Hussain, Associate Project Manager, shared motivational stories.
Sheikh Nowsheen, Assistant Faculty JKEDI, and Bushra Ashraf, Functional Manager DIC, explained the benefits of the Startup Policy and encouraged students to pursue innovation. Ajaz Ahmad Qureshi, Manager J&K Bank, provided insights into financial support for entrepreneurs. Selected ideas moved forward to the next stage. The program was attended by the Deputy Director Employment, faculty members, JKEDI officers, and a large number of students.
At Government Degree College Surankote (Poonch), the boot camp was presided over by Prof. (Dr.) Rani Mughal, Principal of the college, who stressed the importance of the Startup Policy in promoting self-employment and innovation. Out of 15 registered ideas, 11 were presented before a jury including Shabir Hussain Shah (DNO JKEDI Poonch), Iftikhar Bashir Lone (Associate Project Manager JKEDI), senior faculty members, and a J&K Bank representative. Selected participants were felicitated and qualified for the next round.
These boot camps provided vibrant platforms for idea exchange, mentorship, and entrepreneurial learning. Dignitaries and jury members across all three districts lauded JKEDI’s sustained efforts to nurture innovation at the grassroots level.
