IIM Jammu launches DST iTBI Innovation Bootcamps with first outreach at GDC Akhnoor

Jammu, Sept 19 2025: The Indian Institute of Management Jammu, under the visionary leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, has embarked on a landmark initiative to nurture grassroots innovation and entrepreneurship in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The Institute inaugurated its Innovation Bootcamp outreach series today at Government Degree College Akhnoor, with the support of the office of the Nodal Principal, Deptt. of Higher Education, Govt of J&K. This initiative under the aegis of DST iTBI IIM Jammu (the business incubator) marks the beginning of a large-scale, structured program designed to inspire students, equip them with knowledge of entrepreneurial pathways, and provide them with access to incubation support.

The Innovation Bootcamps are envisioned as catalysts for developing a vibrant Innovative thinking in the region. Through these bootcamps, IIM Jammu aims to sensitize young minds towards innovative entrepreneurship, expose them to success stories of innovators, and guide them towards identifying scalable ideas. The initiative also highlights IIM Jammu’s role as a hub in the U.T Government’s YUVA funding scheme, while offering insights into the DST's Innovation Grant and incubation opportunities at DST iTBI IIM Jammu.

 

Join PSU Connect on WhatsApp now for quick updates! Whatsapp Channel

Read Also : IIM Jammu launches DST iTBI Innovation Bootcamps with first outreach at GDC Akhnoor

The inaugural session at GDC Akhnoor witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty. The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Shreya Sharma of GDC Akhnoor. Further the event involved interactions with local incubatee Mr. Raman, founder of Blessings Pads Pvt. Ltd., and local entrepreneur of Akhnoor Ms. Prakriti & Simran, Founder of The Cake Alchemist (LEAD supported entrepreneur). LEAD is a partner in the innovation bootcamp initiative of DST-iTBI, IIM Jammu. The entrepreneurs shared their inspiring entrepreneurial journeys. Later the representatives of IIM Jammu incubator, interacted with the participants and motivated them to pursue innovation-led careers.

Read Also : OIL and RVUNL sign JVA for 1.2 GW Renewable Energy Projects in Rajasthan

The IIM Jammu team, led by Dr. Vivek Sharma, CIO, IIM Jammu and comprising of Mr. Kannav Padha & Ms. Druvi Sharma conducted interactive sessions and addressed queries of students, emphasizing the role of innovation in solving local and regional challenges. Prof. Romilla M. Bhat, Principal, Government Degree College Akhnoor urged students participate in the interactive sessions, to gain maximum advantage of the sessions and create local innovative startups. She opined that the faculty members also should attend such sessions to take such thought processes to the classroom.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vivek Sharma, Chief Innovation Officer, CEISD, underlined the mission of this initiative to kickstart an innovative educational ecosystem in J&K. The Innovation Bootcamps would assist towards creating a launchpad for young entrepreneurs who aspire to create scalable enterprises with national and global relevance.

The bootcamp offered participants, a valuable exposure to the process of innovation, ideation, incubation, and the opportunities available for funding and mentoring. The students were encouraged to form Innovation Cells within their colleges will remain directly connected with IIM Jammu for continuous guidance, mentorship, and progress tracking. This structured support system will ensure that the initiative creates a sustainable and lasting impact, fostering a vibrant culture of innovation and entrepreneurship across higher education institutions in the region.

The Innovation Bootcamps series, scheduled to be conducted across nearly 30 colleges in Jammu and surrounding districts between September and October 2025, will culminate in a central-level pitching contest later this year. This mega event will bring together financial institutions, venture funds, and industry leaders to support the most promising innovations emerging from the region.

With today’s launch at GDC Akhnoor, IIM Jammu has set the tone for an inspiring journey ahead. By connecting higher education with real-world entrepreneurial opportunities, IIM Jammu is playing a transformative role in empowering the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to move from inspiration to innovation, and from innovation to enterprise.

Read Also : Power Grid secures Transmission Project on BOOT basis in Madhya Pradesh