GUWAHATI, Feb 8: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, in collaboration with the BRICS Youth Council, under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Global Counter-Terrorism Council, hosted the “Entrepreneurship Pre-Consultation Event” on February 7.
Themed “Empowering Northeast India – Youth Innovations for Sustainable Growth and National Connectivity,” the event aimed to provide a platform for young entrepreneurs and researchers to showcase their innovative ideas and foster collaboration in the region. More than 500 participants attended the event, including over 80 startups from the Northeast.
Kausar Jamil Hilaly, Secretary of the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare, graced the occasion as the chief guest. During his address, Hilaly emphasized the pivotal role of Northeast India’s youth in the areas of innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. He stated, “With Assam’s strategic location as a gateway to Southeast Asia, the region has a unique opportunity to become a future entrepreneurial hub. Unlike previous generations, today’s youth have access to the resources, knowledge, and tools needed to turn their entrepreneurial vision into reality.” He encouraged young entrepreneurs to pursue their ideas fearlessly and assured that the Government of Assam is committed to supporting startups and business leaders through various initiatives.
A key highlight of the event was a mega startup exhibition, curated by the IIT Guwahati-BioNest incubator and inaugurated by Hilaly. The exhibition showcased over 80 startups from the Northeast, with innovations spanning deep tech, healthcare, agritech, renewable energy, and more.
Prof. Devendra Jalihal, Director of IIT Guwahati, spoke in his welcome address, highlighting the creative energy and innovative potential of India’s youth. He said, “At IIT Guwahati, we are committed to channeling this energy towards nation-building. By fostering skill development and providing a platform for young and aspiring entrepreneurs from the Northeast, we aim to provide them with the required guidance and support.”
Rear Admiral Dr. S Kulshrestha, from the Global Counter-Terrorism Council, also addressed the significance of youth participation in nation-building. He remarked, “Empowering the youth of Northeast India with the right skill sets and motivating them to harness their creativity is the way forward to ensure sustainable growth. Young entrepreneurs have the potential to tackle bold challenges and offer innovative solutions that can drive regional progress and economic integration.”
Deba Kumar Mishra, Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup, noted that the event aligned with the Government of India’s vision of youth empowerment. He stressed Assam’s transformation into a technology and entrepreneurship hub and committed to supporting startups and promoting sustainable growth through innovation and collaboration.
The event also featured a panel discussion on “Navigating the Funding Landscape: Strategies for Startup Success & Sustainable Growth,” where industry experts and entrepreneurs discussed funding strategies crucial for the success and sustainable growth of startups.
The day concluded with an idea challenge pitching session, where aspiring entrepreneurs and startups presented their ideas to potential investors.
