JAMMU, AUGUST 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated new infrastructure facilities and launched a Startup Outreach Programme at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Jammu. The initiative aims to empower young entrepreneurs and innovators within the agriculture sector.
Addressing a gathering of researchers, innovators, and students, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized the evolving employment aspirations among the youth in Jammu and Kashmir. “Today’s youth are eager to create jobs rather than wait for employment,” he noted, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship in achieving a self-reliant Jammu Kashmir.
During his speech, the Lieutenant Governor unveiled several new facilities at SKUAST, including the Unnati Girls Hostel and Centres focused on agricultural innovation such as AI, mushroom research, and digital media. He described these developments as a commitment to enriching the region’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Looking toward global trends, the Lieutenant Governor pointed to innovative agricultural models from countries like the Netherlands, Israel, and New Zealand, which blend technology with traditional practices. “Agriculture and allied sectors represent the next major frontier for innovation,” he stated, urging local youth to tailor solutions to the unique challenges faced in their region.
“You must understand your own fields, farmers, climate, and local problems to prepare your next solution,” he advised. His remark underscored the need for localized innovation rather than mere replication of foreign models.
The Lieutenant Governor also stressed diversifying beyond traditional agricultural methods. He encouraged young farmers to explore opportunities in cold chains, packaging units, and digital marketplaces that connect regional produce with national and international markets.
Women’s empowerment emerged as a crucial theme in the Lieutenant Governor’s address. He asserted, “No entrepreneurship revolution can be complete without the equal and active participation of women.” He called for increased support for women-led enterprises and urged students to champion self-help groups that enable equal access to resources.
As part of the Startup Outreach Programme, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the initiative’s goal to reach farmers and youth in villages who may have limited exposure to concepts like incubation and venture capital. “Some of the best solutions to farmers’ problems come from those who have experienced them firsthand,” he said.
SKUAST-Jammu has taken significant steps so far, selecting over 150 students for idea incubation and supporting 56 promising startups, aiming to bridge the gap between science and agriculture. The Lieutenant Governor urged the university to expand on these successes, stating that the real measure of success lies in the number of innovative ideas and enterprises born from its campus.
He also encouraged students to ask themselves four pivotal questions daily: What problem can I solve? What enterprise can I build? What value can I add to agriculture? How many families can benefit from my idea? “These questions will guide you towards a meaningful career,” he emphasized.
Looking to the future, the Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that Jammu Kashmir would gain recognition for its agricultural innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth leadership in the coming years. “Do not let your circumstances limit your future,” he urged, inspiring youth to harness their potential and technological advancements for progress.
During the event, the Lieutenant Governor also recognized eight startups, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and cooperative enterprises for their contributions to agriculture and rural development. He released key publications aimed at promoting agricultural advancements in the region.
In attendance were several dignitaries, including Shri Shailendra Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, and Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Jammu, alongside students and industry representatives.
