Guwahati (Assam) [India], February 8 (HBTV): Under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, and the Global Counter-Terrorism Council, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, in collaboration with the BRICS Youth Council, hosted the Entrepreneurship Pre-Consultation Event on February 7, 2025.

Themed ‘Empowering Northeast India – Youth Innovations for Sustainable Growth and National Connectivity,’ the event saw participation from over 500 attendees and more than 80 startups. The initiative provided a platform for young entrepreneurs and researchers to showcase their innovative ideas and foster collaboration in Northeast India.

The event was graced by Kausar Jamil Hilaly, IAS, Secretary, Department of Sports and Youth Welfare, Government of Assam, as the chief guest.

Speaking at the event, Hilaly said, ‘The youth of Northeast India are at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. With Assam’s strategic location as a gateway to Southeast Asia, the region has a unique opportunity to become a future entrepreneurial hub. Unlike previous generations, today’s youth have access to the resources, knowledge, and tools needed to turn their entrepreneurial vision into reality.’ 

'I encourage future entrepreneurs to embrace their ideas without fear of judgment. The Government of Assam is committed to supporting startups and young business leaders through various initiatives to help them achieve their goals.’

A key highlight of the event was a mega startup exhibition, curated by the IIT Guwahati-BioNest incubator and inaugurated by Hilaly. The exhibition featured over 80 startups from the Northeast region, showcasing innovations and products in deep-tech, healthcare, agritech, renewable energy, and other sectors.

In his welcome address, Prof. Devendra Jalihal, Director, IIT Guwahati, said, ‘India’s youth is full of creativity and the energy to innovate, and entrepreneurship is the key to unlocking this potential. At IIT Guwahati, we are committed to channeling this energy toward nation-building.’ 

By fostering skill development and providing a platform for young and aspiring entrepreneurs from the Northeast, Jalihal said, it aims to offer them the guidance and support they need.   

‘I encourage all participants to seize this opportunity to collaborate and lead the region’s entrepreneurial transformation.’