Jammu Kashmir EDI Launches New Entrepreneurial Initiatives

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) on Thursday hosted an Entrepreneurship and Startup Meet at its Pampore campus, reaffirming the government’s focus on innovative policymaking and youth-led enterprise development.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, who attended the event as chief guest, emphasised the administration’s commitment to establishing Jammu and Kashmir as a leading hub for startups and employment generation. “We are focused on building a cross-sectoral business support ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurship at all levels and generates sustainable employment,” he said.

The day-long event began with the inauguration of 20 exhibition stalls showcasing innovative products and services by startups, RAMP (Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance) trainees, and units supported by JKEDI. The Deputy Chief Minister interacted with exhibitors and lauded the enthusiasm and creativity of young entrepreneurs.

Highlighting JKEDI’s pivotal role in shaping the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Choudhary said the institute has emerged as a cornerstone for training, mentorship and strategic interventions to empower aspiring business leaders across the region.

Several key initiatives were launched during the event by MLA Pampore Hasnain Masoodi, including the procedural guidelines for the Startup Policy 2024–27, the Startup Idea Challenge, the DPR Portal, and certificate distribution among MDP/ESDP trainees under the RAMP initiative.

Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Vikramjit Singh, also addressed the gathering and underscored the importance of institutional support for nurturing local enterprise.

An interactive session with policymakers and entrepreneurs allowed for the exchange of feedback and ideas, ensuring greater synergy between the government and the startup community.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by the Director of JKEDI, accompanied by a memento presentation ceremony, reinforcing the platform as a vital bridge between innovators, mentors and policy architects in the region.