JKEDI hosts Startup Idea Challenge Boot Camp at GDC Udhampur

Udhampur, Sep 17: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) on Wednesday organised a Startup Idea Challenge – Boot Camp at Government Degree College (Boys) Udhampur to foster innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among the youth.

Held under the aegis of the J&K Startup Policy 2024–2027, the programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 150 students, aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators and faculty members from across the district.

A three-member JKEDI team conducted the session, which combined expert mentoring, idea evaluation and interactive discussions.

Out of the 150 participants, 11 students and innovators pitched their startup ideas before a panel of academic leaders, industry professionals and officials from JKEDI and the District Industries Centre (DIC) Udhampur. The panel lauded the originality and energy of the presentations, providing constructive feedback and guidance. Seven promising ideas were shortlisted for the next phase of the challenge.

The event was inaugurated by Dr Sanjay Kumar Verma, Principal of GDC Boys Udhampur, who commended the government’s role in promoting research, innovation and entrepreneurship. He stressed the importance of such initiatives in equipping young people with skills and a forward-looking mindset essential for economic growth.

Yash Paul, District Nodal Officer JKEDI Udhampur, underlined the significance of Idea Challenge workshops in building a culture of entrepreneurship across J&K. Dr Vinod Sharma, Incharge CNEC JKEDI, gave an overview of the J&K Startup Policy 2024–2027, explaining its three-phase format—idea submission, mentorship and the grand finale—and detailing the incentives and institutional support available for startups.

Encouraging the participants, Arshad Noomani, Functional Manager DIC Udhampur, urged them to think beyond conventional career paths and pursue bold, innovative ideas with confidence.