Srinagar, Sep 13: In a landmark achievement for SKUAST K, Bushra Naaz, PhD scholar under the mentorship of Dr. Ajaz Ahmed Malik, Head, KVK, Ganderbal has been declared a winner at the National Bio Entrepreneurship Competition (NBEC) 2026, held in Bengaluru.

The 2026 edition received an overwhelming response, with over 3,200 registrations from 34 States and Union Territories, making it one of the most competitive national platforms for science driven entrepreneurship. After successive rounds of screening, mentoring, pitching, and evaluation on parameters such as scientific validity, novelty, feasibility, business potential, team strength, and clarity of articulation, only the most promising student advanced to the Grand Finale.
Her pioneering research on plant-based meat analogues stood out for its scientific depth, translational potential, and entrepreneurial promise. In recognition of this breakthrough, Bushra Naaz received a ₹1 lakh award, presented in the presence of Dr. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon, and other eminent figures from India’s biotechnology ecosystem.
Reflecting on the achievement, Dr. Ajaz Ahmed Malik, Head KVK, Ganderbal and Major Advisor to Bushra Naaz, remarked. The recognition of this work is deeply gratifying. For over a decade, I have been engaged with the scientific potential of fava bean, and it is inspiring to see this line of research now being advanced by my student into an innovative solution with societal and commercial relevance.
Hon’ble Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai congratulated both Bushra Naaz and Dr. Ajaz Malik, stating: This achievement is a proud moment for SKUAST K and aligns with our vision to be counted among the top universities in the country. It exemplifies how our scholars and faculty are not only contributing to academic excellence but also translating research into innovation and entrepreneurship. Such recognitions strengthen our resolve to position SKUAST K at the forefront of national and global scientific leadership.