SMVDU hosts one-day workshop on Innovation and Entrepreneurship

JAMMU: School of Energy Management and School of Business, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) successfully organized a one-day workshop on Innovation and Entrepreneurship in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Science Technology and Innovation Council, Department of Science and Technology, UT of J&K.

The event aimed to promote an ecosystem of creativity, problem-solving and start-up culture among students, researchers and early-stage innovators. The workshop commenced with a welcome address by Associate Professor School of Energy Management Dr. Sanjeev Anand, who highlighted the importance of innovation-driven growth for regional and national development.

Dean Faculty of Management, Prof. Ashutosh Vaishshtha emphasized that platforms like these are crucial for nurturing young talent and empowering them with the skills required to translate ideas into viable entrepreneurial ventures.

The Chief Guest of the function, Vice Chancellor SMVDU Prof. Pragati Kumar shared insights on emerging opportunities in technology-driven sectors, government support mechanisms and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for impactful innovation. He shared many examples of recent innovation and stressed that the participants should look into this emerging issue.

Assistant Director JKSTIC, Shruti Khanna briefed the participants about government schemes, funding opportunities and innovation support programs offered by the Council.

Head Department of Continuing Education and Extension (DCEE) University of Delhi, Prof. Kumar Ashutosh spoke on “Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Tourism in Jammu Region,” highlighting the shift from pilgrimage to adventure, eco and heritage tourism. He emphasized innovation, local entrepreneurship, success cases like Patnitop Ropeway and Bhaderwah model, challenges of seasonality, skills and opportunities in wellness and digital platforms, advocating a balanced, sustainable ecosystem.

Prof. Amisha Gupta from the Business School University of Jammu delivered an insightful session on Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Startups. She emphasized sustainability-driven business models, showcased impactful green startups and detailed key government schemes including Atal Innovation Mission, Startup India Seed Fund and NIDHI-PRAYAS to support young entrepreneurs.

A series of interactive sessions and experience-sharing engagements enabled the participants to learn about design thinking, intellectual property rights, and steps involved in establishing a start-up. Participants included students, faculty members and research scholars from SMVDU. The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Ketan Bhatt, Assistant professor, School of Business.

The Workshop was coordinated by Head School of Energy Management, Dr. Vineet Tyagi and Head School of Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Yatheshth Anand.