LG Kavinder Inaugurates Udyamitsav and PRAGYAAN 2026 at IIT Jammu
On February 8, 2026, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, inaugurated the Udyamitsav and PRAGYAAN 2026 at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jammu, located at the Jagti Campus. This event showcases India’s commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, reflecting a future-ready vision for the nation.
Significance of Udyamitsav
During his address, Lieutenant Governor Gupta emphasized that Udyamitsav represents a pivotal platform that symbolizes India’s journey from ideas to innovation. He noted that it plays a crucial role in transforming startups into significant contributors to nation-building. The event attracted nearly 1,000 young entrepreneurs from Jammu & Kashmir and surrounding regions, highlighting their potential as job creators. Gupta praised their innovative solutions, which address local challenges while holding global relevance.
Overview of PRAGYAAN 2026
In his remarks about PRAGYAAN 2026, Gupta described it as more than just a science exhibition. He referred to it as a movement aimed at nurturing curiosity and scientific thinking among children. The Lieutenant Governor stated that such platforms encourage young minds to question, experiment, and innovate, laying a solid foundation for future scientists and innovators.
Vision for India’s Future
Gupta referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, asserting that the youth of India will be the driving force behind transforming the country into a global innovation powerhouse. He highlighted that government policies are increasingly focused on empowering youth, promoting startups, and strengthening research and innovation ecosystems.
Infrastructure and Opportunities in Ladakh
During the event, Gupta shared insights from his recent visit to the University of Ladakh, where he observed world-class laboratories and modern research infrastructure even in high-altitude regions. He noted that these facilities enable youth from border and remote areas to access global-quality education and research opportunities.
Potential of the Himalayan Region
Gupta emphasized the vast potential of Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, and the Himalayan regions in various sectors, including:
- Green technologies
- Agri-startups
- Tourism innovation
- Digital services
He pointed out that geographical challenges are increasingly becoming strengths with focused policy support. The Lieutenant Governor praised IIT Jammu for evolving into a hub of research, innovation, and startup culture.
Proposed Collaboration for Entrepreneurship
In his speech, Gupta proposed exploring a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ladakh Administration and IIT Jammu to promote entrepreneurship, particularly among students from border areas. This collaboration aims to enhance opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region.
Welcoming Remarks from IIT Jammu
Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, the Director of IIT Jammu, welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the institute’s vision of fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning. Faculty members presented a wide array of activities under Udyamitsav and PRAGYAAN 2026, which is hosting over 6,000 students and educators. The event features exhibitions, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities, innovation challenges, and creative platforms.
Interaction with Student Innovators
Following the inaugural ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Gupta visited various innovation stalls, where he interacted with student innovators. He expressed appreciation for their creativity and technological solutions, recognizing the importance of nurturing young talent in the field of innovation.
Conclusion
The inauguration of Udyamitsav and PRAGYAAN 2026 at IIT Jammu marks a significant step towards fostering an innovation-driven culture in India. By empowering youth and promoting entrepreneurship, these initiatives aim to position India as a global leader in innovation and technology.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the events and statements made during the inauguration of Udyamitsav and PRAGYAAN 2026 at IIT Jammu.
