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 Dr. Sanjeev Anand, Associate Professor, School of Energy Management, who highlighted the importance of innovation-driven growth for regional and national development. Prof. Ashutosh Vaishshtha, Dean Faculty of Management emphasized the role Institute Innovation Councils at SMVDU and stressed upon the need of such workshops. He 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 Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor, SMVDU 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 upon the participants to look into this emerging issue. Ms. Shruti Khanna, Assistant Director, JKSTIC briefed the participants about various schemes, funding opportunities, and innovation support programs offered by the Council. Prof. Kumar Ashutosh, Head, DCEE, University of Delhi, 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 and skills, and opportunities in wellness and digital platforms, advocating a balanced, sustainable ecosystem. Prof. Amisha Gupta, 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, expressing gratitude to JKSTIC for their collaboration and continued support towards fostering a culture of innovation in the region. SMVDU reiterated its commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation through sustained capacity-building initiatives, collaborations, and incubation support. Workshop was Coordinated by Dr. Vineet Tyagi, Head, School of Energy Management and Dr. Yatheshth Anand, Head, School of Mechanical Engineering.
