IIM Jammu partners to launch 22 Small Business Development Units in Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh

This initiative aims to bolster entrepreneurship development by strengthening institutional frameworks and delivering quality initiatives at strategically identified locations.

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu has joined forces with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, and the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI) to establish 22 Small Business Development Units (SBDUs) across the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. This initiative aims to bolster entrepreneurship development by strengthening institutional frameworks and delivering quality initiatives at strategically identified locations.

Inaugural Ideathon and Workshop Held at Udhampur

In line with the launch of these SBDUs, a one-day Ideathon and workshop was organized at the SBDU located at ITI Udhampur. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from several regions, including Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Udhampur, and Reasi. The workshop was officially inaugurated by Kishore Singh Katoch, General Manager of DIC Udhampur.

Innovative Ideas and Sectoral Focus

The Ideathon showcased a range of innovative ideas spanning various sectors such as Food Technology, Dairy, Science Promotion, Handicrafts, Pashmina, and Apparels. Noteworthy concepts presented during the event included:

- AI-Enhanced Pashmina Shawls: Training Artificial Intelligence to design intricate Pashmina shawls.

- Mobile Space Observatory: Setting up a mobile space observatory to advance science education in remote areas.

- Integrated Farming Project: Combining livestock management with a bakery that produces health-conscious, digestive-friendly products.

- Waste-to-Wealth Projects: Initiatives focusing on transforming waste into valuable resources and addressing hygiene issues.

These ideas reflect a commitment to addressing both traditional and contemporary challenges within their respective fields.

Support and Guidance for Entrepreneurs

Kishore Singh Katoch emphasized the workshop’s objectives, underlining the importance of empowering youth to convert their ideas into viable business ventures. He also highlighted the significance of institutional collaborations in maximizing the potential of young entrepreneurs in the region.

Dr. Vivek Sharma, Chief Innovation Officer at IIM Jammu, discussed the pivotal role of the IIM Jammu incubation center (DST iTBI) in transforming ideas into scalable businesses and enhancing the regional startup ecosystem. Naren Karunakaran, Consultant for SBDU at IIM Jammu, spoke on the importance of incorporating sustainability into business ventures, urging entrepreneurs to build socially responsible enterprises.

Notable Attendees and Contributions

The event was attended by key figures including Dr. Shahid Jibran, Project Manager of SBDU at IIM Jammu; Ravinder Singh Bhatti, Superintendent of ITI Udhampur; Naresh Singh, Superintendent of ITI Doda; Sandeep Singh, Supervisor of ITI Udhampur; and Mohammed Iqbal, Electronic Instructor at ITI Udhampur.

Throughout the Ideathon, the IIM Jammu incubator team provided critical support, offering guidance on grants, seed funds, and mentorship connectivity. This assistance is crucial for securing the necessary resources and expertise required for startup success. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ravinder Singh Bhatti.

This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and support needed to bring their ideas to fruition.

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