Eastern India is becoming a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with the Regional AIM Sumvaad-East Chapter 2026 event organized by Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog. The event, held in Bhubaneswar, launched the AIM-Odisha Chapter to enhance opportunities for startups in Odisha. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration among incubators, mentors, investors, and ecosystem resources to enrich Odisha’s innovation landscape.
Chithra Arumugam, Additional Chief Secretary of the Science & Technology Department, Government of Odisha, emphasized the region’s increasing role in national innovation during the event. The Mission Director of Atal Innovation Mission highlighted the importance of fostering innovation ecosystems beyond urban centers. The event stressed the significance of regional partnerships in fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth in Eastern India.
The conclave saw active participation from Atal Incubation Centres and Atal Community Innovation Centres across Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. Discussions at the event focused on strengthening state startup ecosystems, promoting collaborative innovation, and unlocking opportunities in sectors like mining, biotechnology, and life sciences. The theme of the event was “Purvodaya- Building an Ecosystem for Sunrise Sectors,” reflecting the commitment to driving entrepreneurship in Eastern India.
