Awantipora : Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, inaugurated two advanced facilities at the Innovation Campus of Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) in Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir. These facilities include the Innovation Technology Business Incubator (iTBI) and the iFactory, both designed to support start-ups and enhance the region’s innovation ecosystem. The iTBI is backed by the Ministry of Science and Technology, while the iFactory is sponsored by the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
Addressing the event the Union Minister announced a special grant of ₹5 crores to bolster IUST’s innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives, along with support for 30 start-ups. He highlighted India’s leadership in various technological fields and encouraged students and researchers to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Additionally, he expressed confidence in the entrepreneurial potential of Jammu & Kashmir and the pivotal role of institutions like IUST in harnessing this potential. The event also featured the distribution of Ignition Grants worth ₹40 lakhs to aspiring innovators. Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, articulated the university’s commitment to contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, with each department developing plans to align with this goal. He noted the significant advancements in IUST’s innovation ecosystem, which now includes nearly ten specialized centers dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and technological innovation. The Registrar of IUST emphasized the university’s dedication to making innovation and entrepreneurship central to its mission. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including government officials, industry leaders, and representatives from academia, marking a significant step towards promoting a vibrant start-up culture and technology-driven solutions in the region. The proceedings were moderated by Dr. Farhana Allia, with a formal vote of thanks proposed by Prof. Parvez A. Mir.
