KATRA: The Managing Committee of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University Technology Business Incubator (SMVDU-TBIC) recently held a meeting to discuss the finalization of its policy document and funding guidelines. Apart from the internal committee members, Dr. Ashutosh Pastor, Head Incubation, FITT IIT Delhi, and Mr. Amit Singh Rathore, CEO of IIF DTU, participated as external members.

The meeting commenced with awelcome address by Dr. Sanjay Mohan, CEO of SMVDU-TBIC, who welcomed the Hon'bleVice Chancellor and other team members. During the meeting, several key recommendationswere made to enhance the support provided to startups. The committee suggested offeringsupport at the ideation stage and providing the center with more flexibility in managing theincubation process.Various aspects of the incubation phases and corresponding fundingprocedures were also deliberated upon.

The committee discussed several fundingopportunities for TBIC, including avenues for streamlining startup registration. It wasrecommended to allow temporary workspace agreements with founders, alumni, and privateinvestors to facilitate early-stage development. Another significant point of discussion wasthe potential for SMVDU-TBIC to hold equity in startups. The committee explored thelegalities and governance framework for such a model.

The committee also proposed creatinga dedicated policy to protect students from potential exploitation in startup collaborations andestablishing a structured process for MVP (Minimum Viable Product) grant disbursement.Additionally, a formal selection and review process before funding allocation was suggestedto ensure alignment with the incubator's strategic goals.

These recommendations are expectedto strengthen SMVDU-TBIC's role in fostering innovation and supporting the growth ofstartups in the region. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. DivyeDuheta Mahajan, Manager of SMVDU-TBIC.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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