The Department of Mechanical Engineering at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar organised an MSME Design Awareness Programme, drawing over 110 entrepreneurs, startup founders, students, and stakeholders from across Kashmir.
Experts highlighted the role of design-led innovation in improving product value, branding, and market competitiveness of local enterprises.
In his message to budding entrepreneurs, Director NIT Srinagar, Binod Kumar Kanaujia, said that design-led innovation is critical to the growth of local industries and the economic self-reliance of the region.
Prof. Kanaujia said that innovation must be tailored to local needs, encouraging entrepreneurs to adopt solutions that reflect Kashmir’s unique strengths and resources while improving product quality, durability, and market competitiveness.
Sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, the programme focused on the MSME Design Scheme, funding support mechanisms, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.
Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman stressed stronger academia–industry collaboration, structured mentoring, and prototype development support to help entrepreneurs translate ideas into commercially viable products.
Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department, Prof. Hanief, underlined the importance of systematic product development strategies to improve durability, quality standards, and competitiveness of traditional products.
The programme also featured expert sessions by Prof. Irfana Rashid from University of Kashmir, who highlighted the importance of research-driven innovation, branding strategies, and value addition in traditional sectors such as handicrafts and Agri-based enterprises.
Mr. Ajaz Hussain from MSME PPDC delivered an insightful session on product development support, quality certification, and technical assistance available to MSMEs through government-backed facilities. He emphasised leveraging institutional support for prototype development and technology upgradation.
Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Nodal Officer for the MSME Design Scheme, presented detailed guidelines on financial assistance patterns and implementation processes, encouraging entrepreneurs to adopt sustainable and technology-driven approaches.
The programme concluded with an interactive session where participants discussed challenges related to market access, logistics, and scaling up production.
