Continuing its mission to empower youth and foster innovation, the Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) organized J&K Startup Idea Challenge – Boot Camps under the J&K Startup Policy 2024–27 across multiple institutions in the Union Territory. These boot camps took place at Government Sri Pratap College, M.A Road Srinagar, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University – Technology Business Incubator (SMVDU-TBIC) Katra, Government Degree College for Women Kathua, and Government Degree College Banihal, witnessing enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Srinagar

The boot camp at Government Sri Pratap College was inaugurated by Principal Prof. Bashir Ahmad, who emphasized the need to regularly host such events to foster a vibrant startup ecosystem.
Twenty-two participants pitched their ideas before a jury comprising college faculty, J&K Bank officials, and JKEDI representatives.
Sh. Ahsan Qadir, District Nodal Officer (JKEDI Srinagar), briefed attendees on the Startup Policy, while Dr. Sameer Jan Baht, Incharge CEER (JKEDI), delivered the keynote address.
Katra (SMVDU-TBIC):
The boot camp at SMVDU-TBIC aimed at boosting innovation in the Jammu region.
Chand Kishor Sharma, Joint Director JKEDI, served as Chief Guest, stressing the importance of innovation-led entrepreneurship.
Dr. Kumud Ranjan Jha, Vice-Chairperson TBIC, and Dr. Sanjay Mohan, CEO TBIC, were also present.
Abhilash Kumar Braroo (DNO, JKEDI Reasi) and Zahid Ali Dar (Project Manager, JKEDI) highlighted the Startup Policy’s key opportunities.
Out of 14 ideas pitched, 12 were shortlisted for the next round. The event drew 110 student participants.

Kathua

Held at Govt. Degree College for Women, the event was graced by Chand Kishor Sharma (Joint Director JKEDI) and Dr. Savi Behl (Principal).
Dheeraj Handoo (DNO, JKEDI Kathua) guided students on pitching startup ideas.
A motivational session by Arun Singh, CEO of Techez Workstation, inspired participants.
Four ideas were presented, with 11 shortlisted for further rounds.

Banihal

At Govt. Degree College Banihal, Dr. Mohammad Shafiq Katoch (Principal) inaugurated the session, emphasizing the importance of youth-led innovation.
Tasneef Rasool Parray (DNO, JKEDI Ramban) and Mohsin Abrar (JKEDI) elaborated on policy incentives and challenge stages.
Eight business ideas were presented, focusing on technology and sustainability.
These boot camps served as dynamic platforms for knowledge sharing, mentorship, and entrepreneurial learning. Jury members and dignitaries praised JKEDI’s continued efforts in grassroots innovation, reaffirming its commitment to transforming J&K’s youth into job creators through robust support and exposure.