The Incubation and Startup Cell of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), under the aegis of Jammu and Kashmir Competitive Innovation Programme (JKCIP), organized a one-day outreach programme titled 'Igniting Young Minds: Bridging Innovation and Opportunity.'
The event aimed to inspire, educate, and engage budding agri-preneurs across the region, facilitating dialogue between stakeholders in innovation, research, and agriculture.
The programme was attended by Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, who emphasized the need for cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among the youth.
Earlier, Dr. Ashaq Pandit, Coordinator JKCIP, SKUAST-K, In his introductory remarks provided an overview of the objectives of JKCIP.
Dr. Sartaj Ahmad Shah, Director of Agriculture, Kashmir, brought attention to critical challenges faced by farmers and entrepreneurs in the region, including climate vulnerability, market access, and lack of technological integration. He encouraged young minds to develop need-based, scalable solutions tailored to the unique agro-climatic conditions of the valley.
Prof. Haroon Naik, Director Research and Nodal Officer JKCIP at SKUAST-K, spoke about the various components of the JKCIP and its strategic vision to create an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship in Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural sector.
Officers of the University, including Director planning and Monitoring, Prof. S. A. Wani, Registrar Azmat Alam Khan, several HoDs and students from across the valley attended the workshop.
The outreach programme witnessed active participation from students, researchers, young entrepreneurs, and agri-startup aspirants. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange, mentorship, and ideation, reinforcing SKUAST-K’s vision to be a hub for agricultural innovation in the region.