Pulwama: Krishi Vigyan Kendra Pulwama, SKUAST-K, in collaboration with innovation and startup cell under JKCIP, SKUAST-K inaugurated a two-day Boot Camp/Ideation event aimed at identifying, mentoring, handholding, and supporting aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs in the field of agriculture and allied sectors today on 23rd July 2025 at KVK Auditorium.
The event commenced with great enthusiasm from participants and marks a critical step in building a robust rural innovation and Agri-entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.
The initiative seeks to unlock the potential of youth, local innovators, and Agri-preneurs to develop sustainable, tech-enabled, and scalable solutions for agricultural challenges in the region.
The inaugural session was graced by Director Extension SKUAST-K, Prof. (Dr.) Raihana Habib Kanth, and was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Awantipora, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad, CEO SKIIE Centre, Dr. Naveed Hamid Bhat, scientists of Kendra, members from different FPOs, SHGs, NGOs, aspiring entrepreneurs, Agri-tech enthusiasts, innovators, rural youth and students.
Prof. (Dr.) Raihana Habib Kanth in her keynote address emphasized the critical role of innovation and entrepreneurship in addressing modern agricultural challenges and enhancing farmers’ income. She emphasized the need to bridge the gap between traditional farming practices and modern Agri-technologies through localized entrepreneurship models. She also highlighted the university’s commitment to nurturing startups and encouraging idea-stage innovations to flourish in rural communities.
In his remarks, ADC Awantipora emphasized the importance of institutional support and convergence of government schemes to help young entrepreneurs scale their ideas. He appreciated the initiative and encouraged young minds to explore agriculture as a promising sector for innovation and livelihood creation.
Prof. Javeed Ahmad Mugloo, Head, KVK Pulwama, while welcoming the guests and participants, expressed his vision to make KVK a hub of rural innovation. He reaffirmed the Kendra’s commitment to nurturing startups that can generate employment, improve productivity, and enhance farmers’ incomes. The inaugural session was moderated by Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Ganie and was concluded with formal vote of thanks by Dr. Naveed Hamid Bhat.
This Boot Camp will span two days of intensive mentoring sessions, ideation events, pitch presentations, and expert-led panels. Participants will receive guidance on business model development, value chain integration, marketing strategies, funding opportunities, and government support schemes for Agri-entrepreneurs.
Special emphasis is being placed on ideas that are sustainable, climate-resilient, and community-focused. The event marks a significant step towards nurturing a vibrant innovation ecosystem in the agricultural sector of South Kashmir.
