SKUAST-K conducts bootcamp on critical thinking under JKCIP programme at KVK Kulgam

Kulgam, Jul 31: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), under its J&K Climate Innovation Programme (JKCIP), conducted a two-day bootcamp on critical thinking & ideation at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kulgam.

The event was jointly organised by SKUAST-K’s Incubation and Startup Cell in collaboration with the SKUAST-K Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship Centre (SKIIE), Shalimar.

The boot camp aimed to identify, mentor, and support aspiring and early-stage agri-entrepreneurs working to address pressing challenges in agriculture and allied sectors. The initiative seeks to harness the potential of youth, local innovators, and agri-preneurs to develop sustainable, tech-driven, and scalable solutions rooted in local needs.

The inaugural session was attended by Head of KVK Kulgam Prof. Manzoor Ahmad Ganai, CEO & Head of SKIIE Centre Dr Naveed Hamid, Manager of Incubation JKCIP Dr Muhammad Mubashir, along with scientists from the Kendra, representatives from FPOs, SHGs, NGOs, agri-tech enthusiasts, innovators, & rural youth.

In his keynote address, Prof. Ganai stressed the vital role of innovation and entrepreneurship in transforming traditional agriculture and improving farmer incomes. He underscored the importance of bridging the gap between conventional practices and emerging agri-technologies through grassroots entrepreneurship.

Dr Muhammad Mubashir welcomed participants and spoke about the innovation and startup ecosystem being nurtured under the leadership of SKUAST-K’s Vice-Chancellor. He elaborated on the startup policy framework of JKCIP and encouraged participants to think creatively and explore self-sustainable ventures.

Dr Naveed Hamid urged aspiring entrepreneurs to challenge conventional boundaries, foster innovation, and actively contribute to the evolving startup ecosystem. He highlighted that SKUAST-K’s incubation initiatives are part of a broader mission to build a resilient and self-reliant J&K, aligned with the vision of “Viksit J&K.”

Dr Shahid Ahmed, Scientist (Animal Science), KVK Kulgam, moderated the sessions and expressed gratitude to Director Research Prof. Haroon R. Naik and JKCIP Nodal Officer Prof. Ashaq H. Pandit for their guidance in connecting grassroots innovators.