National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), Guwahati has organized a 2-day skilling program for its registered startups under North-East Capacity Building 2.0 (NECB 2.0) project sponsored by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The programme was held on 27th and 28th June 2024 at the Assam Startup – the Nest premises in Guwahati.
The event, which aims to bolster the startup ecosystem in Northeast India, brought together prominent industry experts and government officials to discuss the future of innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
The ceremony began with welcome address by Dr. Y. Jayanta Singh, Executive Director of NIELIT, Guwahati. Dr. Singh emphasized the growing significance of artificial intelligence and highlighted the futuristic potential of the new electronic semiconductor plants established in the area. He noted that these developments could revolutionize the local economy and create numerous opportunities for startups.
Anubhav Tiwari, Chief Innovation Officer of NIELIT provided an insightful overview of the potential prospects for startups in Northeast India, underscoring the region’s untapped potential and the importance of fostering a supportive environment for new ventures.
Chinmoy Prakash Phookan, ACS, Managing Director of Assam Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (AIIDC), elaborated on the initiatives undertaken by the Government of Assam to popularize the startup culture among the local populace. Shri Phookan highlighted various performance metrics and successful projects, demonstrating the positive impact of AIIDC’s efforts in nurturing a vibrant startup community.
Following the inaugural session, a panel discussion moderated by Anubhav Tiwari, Chief Innovation Officer of NIELIT, brought together distinguished panelist including Rajarshi Sharma, Chief Operating Officer of Assam Startup; Dr. Hirak Ranjan Das, Innovation Manager at AICTE, MIC, Government of India; and Shri Satyen Madhav Mahanta, entrepreneurial consultant based at Assam.
Entrepreneurial consultant Shri Satyen Madhav Mahanta highlighted during the panel discussion that the traditional food industry can bring up immense opportunities for startups. At least two start-ups are working on developing a Pitha manufacturing machine, and once they achieve a breakthrough, the popularity of the Assamese delicacy would increase manifold both nationally and globally, he added.
The panellists engaged in a lively discussion on various aspects of entrepreneurship and innovation, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive ecosystem for startups in the region.
