SRINAGAR: A two-month-long Entrepreneurship Awareness Program concluded at various clusters on Saturday across the Kashmir Valley. The MSME Entrepreneurship Awareness Program was organized by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, NIT Srinagar, in collaboration with MSME PPDC, covering different regions of Kashmir. It was sponsored by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India.

The entire valley was divided into three clusters: Cluster 1 included Srinagar, Bandipora, and Ganderbal; Cluster 2 comprised Pulwama, Anantnag, Kishtwar, and Kulgam; while Cluster 3 covered Kupwara, Baramulla, Budgam, and Shopian.

Over the course of two months, close to 1,000 young individuals were sensitized about entrepreneurship and various MSME schemes. In collaboration with Government Degree Colleges and various training institutes, participants were provided awareness regarding numerous funding opportunities and business development strategies.

Chief Patron of the workshop was Prof. Binodh Kumar Kanaujia (Director, NIT Srinagar), while the patrons included Prof. Atikur Rahman (Registrar), Prof. M.F. Wani (MED), Prof. G.A. Harmain (MED), Prof. Sheikh Nazir Ahmed (MED), and Prof. Roohi Naaz Mir (Dean R&C). The Chairpersons were Prof. M.M. Wani (HoD, MED) and Prof. Adnan Qoyum (MED).

In his message, Incharge Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Roohi Naaz said entrepreneurship is the backbone of economic development, and through this initiative. “It was aimed to equip young minds with the necessary skills and knowledge to start their own ventures. It is heartening to see the overwhelming response from youth across the valley,” she said.

Prof. Atikur Rahman, Registrar NIT Srinagar said that goal of this program was to create a sustainable ecosystem for entrepreneurship. The increasing participation of women in this initiative is a testament to the positive impact of such programs, he said. Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Nodal Officer of the MSME ESDP Scheme, provided an overview of the program, emphasizing the focus on technology-based entrepreneurship ventures.

“These included 3D Printing, Laser Engraving, Handicrafts, Crochet, Drone Technology, Internet of Things (IoT), Digital Marketing, Soap Making, Willow Wicker, Gift Printing, Design, Public Speaking, Cybersecurity, Robotics, Wood Carving, E-commerce, and Embroidery,” he said.

A significant outcome of the program was the increase in women participation, with a 60:40 male-to-female ratio. This notable shift was achieved by focusing on women empowerment initiatives. Additionally, over 100 youths successfully registered their firms under MSME by completing the Udyam registration process. The program concluded on Sunday on a high note, with organizers expressing their commitment to continue such initiatives to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth in the region.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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