Jammu, Feb 7: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, on Saturday inaugurated Udyamitsav and PRAGYAAN 2026 at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jammu, describing innovation, entrepreneurship and scientific temper as key pillars of nation-building.
Addressing students, innovators and educators at the Jagti campus, the LG said India’s youth will play a crucial role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He emphasised that premier institutions like IIT Jammu are emerging as centres of research, startup culture and technological innovation, shaping the future of New India.
Highlighting the significance of Udyamitsav, Gupta said the initiative symbolises India’s journey from ideas to innovation and from startups to nation-building. He lauded the participation of around 1,000 young entrepreneurs from Jammu & Kashmir and neighbouring regions, terming them job creators addressing local challenges with global solutions.
Speaking about PRAGYAAN 2026, he said the initiative is not just a science exhibition but a movement to nurture curiosity and scientific thinking among students. He noted that such platforms encourage young minds to experiment, innovate and develop a spirit of discovery.
The LG also highlighted the growing research infrastructure in Ladakh, stating that world-class laboratories in high-altitude regions are providing youth from remote border areas access to quality education and innovation opportunities. He further proposed exploring a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ladakh Administration and IIT Jammu to promote innovation and entrepreneurship, especially among students from border areas.
IIT Jammu Director, Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, said the institute is committed to building an ecosystem that promotes innovation, entrepreneurship and experiential learning. Faculty members highlighted that Udyamitsav and PRAGYAAN are bridging the gap between academia and society through startup expos, competitions, exhibitions and hands-on learning activities.
PRAGYAAN 2026 is hosting over 6,000 students and educators from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, featuring more than 130 exhibition stalls and over 45 scientific and creative activities. During his visit, the LG interacted with student innovators and visited robotics and technology stalls showcasing drones, science kits and other projects.
The event witnessed the participation of senior officials, faculty members, industry experts and students from across the region.
