JAMMU, Feb 22: The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, today urged the youth of Jammu & Kashmir to abandon the “Sarkari Naukri” mentality.
At the inauguration of the 2-day “National Startup Festival,” organized by CSIR-India Institute of Integrative Medicine at the Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, the Minister dedicated the festival to the youth, stressing the significance of innovation, entrepreneurship, and early industrial connections for the success of startups.
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the vast potential of agriculture-driven startups in the region, especially highlighting the Purple Revolution, which has enabled more than 3,000 youth in Jammu & Kashmir to earn substantial incomes through the lavender startup initiative. He motivated young individuals to acknowledge their skills and consider entrepreneurial opportunities rather than only aiming for government jobs.
The Minister also pointed out that Jammu & Kashmir’s agri-startup ecosystem is flourishing, with lavender farming in Bhaderwah, Doda district, placing the region on the global startup stage. He called for greater integration of urban areas into agri-startups, aiming to enhance lavender cultivation along with other high-value agricultural projects.
With two lakh startups currently operating in India, the nation has attained the third position in the global startup ecosystem. The S&T Minister remarked that startups are not just propelling economic growth but also creating rewarding job opportunities, particularly for women and Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
He highlighted the essential role of industry connections and market research in ensuring the long-lasting viability of startups, encouraging new entrepreneurs to analyze market trends from the very beginning.
Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the rapid expansion of India’s space economy, attributing its success to collaboration between public and private sectors. He also acknowledged the contributions of women-led teams in significant space missions, including Chandrayaan-2 and Aditya L1.
On the education front, Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which has transformed the educational landscape in India by establishing a level playing field and promoting digital inclusivity. The Minister urged students to dedicate a minimum of 30 minutes daily to learn about government initiatives and explore available opportunities.
The Science and Technology Minister also mentioned that following his guidance, an MoU has been signed among AIIMS, IIIM, IIT, IIM, and GMC Jammu for integrated research co-guidance for postgraduate students.
During the festival, Dr. Jitendra Singh visited 45 startup stalls, interacting with aspiring entrepreneurs and students showcasing their innovations. He commended their contributions to India’s startup ecosystem and encouraged them to persist in their innovative efforts.
The National Startup Festival 2025 marks a significant stride toward establishing Jammu & Kashmir as a center for innovation, self-reliance, and economic empowerment.
