Incubators are crucial for a thriving startup environment, according to Deepak Bagla, Mission Director at Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog. Bagla emphasized the importance of incubators in nurturing and expanding innovative concepts. At an event in Mohali, he highlighted efforts to empower incubators with improved infrastructure, mentorship, funding access, and market connections.
The gathering aimed to enhance collaboration between states and the center, fostering a strong network of incubators in the region. It also sought to deepen relationships with key players in the innovation ecosystem, promoting inclusive entrepreneurship and speeding up innovation through partnerships among government, industry, academia, and startups. Representatives from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi, along with various stakeholders, participated in the event.
S Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, and Chairman of CGC Landran, commended the collaborative innovation platforms led by Atal Innovation Mission. He highlighted the role of entrepreneurship and innovation in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat put forth by the Prime Minister. Sandhu also emphasized the shared entrepreneurial spirit and academic excellence between Punjab and J&K, foreseeing new opportunities for startups, youth, and industries in both states.
The event, named ‘Sumvaad,’ included discussions on fortifying incubation ecosystems, expanding state-driven innovation projects, and enhancing partnerships among governments, academia, incubators, and industry. The sessions concentrated on promoting economic growth driven by innovation and creating avenues for startups in emerging sectors. A significant highlight was the unveiling of the Punjab & Jammu and Kashmir Incubation Consortium – PI-RAHI, a joint effort to bolster regional innovation partnerships and open up prospects for startups, youth, and industries in both states.
