KU innovators win prestigious ‘Early Stage Promising Startup Award’

Srinagar, Dec 1: The University of Kashmir (KU) Saturday announced that the varsity’s two innovators, Jehangir Hameed Lone and Sajid Noor have won the prestigious ‘Early Stage Promising Startup Award’ at the ‘Jammu and Kashmir Startup Conclave 2024’, held at the Modern Institute of Engineering and Technology (MIET), Jammu.

Competing among 50 early-stage startups, their ground-breaking project, ‘Automatic Multimenu Starch-Free Device’, stood out for its health-centric innovation and practical usability, a spokesperson said in a statement issued here.

The award-winning device is designed to operate remotely via a mobile application and aims to prevent health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes by removing excess starch during cooking. Its multi-functional, user-friendly design makes it a revolutionary solution for households, hospitals, hostels and restaurants, the statement read.

In her congratulatory message, KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofar Khan, highlighted the “growing spirit of innovation at the institution and the transformative potential of young minds in driving societal progress”.

“KU nurtures innovation and entrepreneurial talent and Jehangir and Sajid have demonstrated exceptional creativity and determination in addressing real-world challenges, setting an inspiring example for the student community,” Prof Khan said.

She further said that their innovative device showcases how technology can be harnessed to promote health and well-being.

“The award reflects the cutting-edge research and entrepreneurial ecosystem we are promoting across our campuses,” Prof Khan said, adding that the success is not just theirs but a significant milestone for the whole university.

Commenting on the achievement, Head, Department of Electronics and Instrumentation Technology, Prof M Tariq Banday, commended the innovation and entrepreneurial skills displayed by Jehangir Hameed Lone and Sajid Noor, former students of the university.

“They have set a benchmark for other aspiring innovators, positioning the institution as a leader in promoting impactful ideas in the startup ecosystem of Jammu and Kashmir.”

On receiving the honour, Jehangir Hameed Lone, one of the innovators, attributed their success to the untiring support of the University of Kashmir and its Centre for Innovation, Incubation, and Entrepreneurship (CIIE).

“KU and CIIE have been instrumental in encouraging innovation and supporting young innovators. Their guidance and resources have been pivotal in helping us secure intellectual property for our innovative ideas,” Lone said, adding that the University of Kashmir “holds rights in the patent for this innovation”.

“The university’s support in navigating the intellectual property process has been a cornerstone of our success that in turn ensured the protection and recognition of our work,” he added.