Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann officially opened Punjab's very first Startup Conclave on Monday. The event took place at Lovely Professional University in Jalandhar. This conclave represents a major state-level initiative organized by the Department of Industries and Commerce.
A Flagship Platform for Innovation
The government is positioning this conclave as its flagship platform. It aims to celebrate innovation, entrepreneurship, and the state's rapidly growing startup ecosystem. Over one hundred startups participated in the inaugural event.
Full Institutional Backing for New Ideas
The AAP government used the occasion to send a strong message of full institutional support for new business ideas. The event brought together industry leaders, investors, incubators, academic experts, and policymakers under one roof. The government's clear objective is to transform Punjab's youth from job seekers into job creators.
Chief Minister Mann directly interacted with entrepreneurs during the conclave. He emphasized that Punjabis possess a natural talent for engineering and entrepreneurship. This inherent skill, he noted, is why they succeed in every endeavor they undertake.
The New Mantra: Update and Create
Mann introduced a new slogan for youth-led growth: "update and create." He assured attendees that there is no shortage of funds for promising ideas. The government pledged to help every single viable idea proposed by business leaders.
Sharing insights from his recent visit to Japan, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of a clear vision for the future. He cited Japan's integrated transportation system as an example of forward-thinking planning. Mann mentioned companies like Rising Star and Rising Sun, noting their positive mindset contributes to societal progress.
Showcasing Punjab's Ecosystem
The Chief Minister expressed strong confidence in the conclave's potential. He stated it would serve as a vital platform to showcase Punjab's innovative and fast-growing startup ecosystem to the world. The event successfully fostered collaboration among key stakeholders.
More than fifteen incubators and over five support organizations based in Punjab showcased their initiatives. The government provided special incentive cheques to eight selected startups. Seven of these startups received seed grants of three lakh rupees each. One startup was granted lease rental assistance of one point two lakh rupees.
Political Presence and Support
Several prominent figures attended the inauguration. Punjab Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora was present. Lok Sabha MP Dr. Raj Kumar Chabbewal and Rajya Sabha member Ashok Mittal also joined the event, demonstrating cross-party support for the initiative.
CM Holds Lok Milni in Jalandhar
On the same day, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann held a 'Lok Milni' or public interaction in Jalandhar. This event allowed him to engage directly with people from different assembly constituencies. Citizens had the opportunity to present their grievances directly to the Chief Minister.
The Lok Milni took place at a sprawling pre-colonial era bungalow. This heritage property served as the divisional commissioner's residence since colonial times. It has now been prepared as the Chief Minister's official residence in Jalandhar.
The government's dual focus on institutional support for startups and direct public engagement underscores its commitment to holistic development. The Startup Punjab Conclave marks a significant step toward empowering the state's youth and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and job creation.
