By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 10 Sep: In a significant stride towards fostering innovation and self-reliance among the youth, the Higher Education Department has announced the selection of 20 student entrepreneurs for the prestigious Devbhoomi Udyamita Yojana Startup Seed Fund. Each student will receive Rs 75,000 to bring their entrepreneurial dreams to life.
The initiative, launched to encourage self-employment and creativity, witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 600 applications pouring in from across the state’s higher education institutions. After a rigorous selection process, 20 exceptional students, including 11 girls and 9 boys, were chosen for their innovative business ideas. Their proposals range from millet-based bakeries, Pahadi Pithiya, and natural honey production to Kandali chutney, scented candles, and organic cosmetic products.
Minister of Higher Education, Dr Dhan Singh Rawat, congratulated the winners, emphasised the importance of nurturing young talent. “This seed fund aims to empower students by providing the financial support they need to launch and grow their startups. It is a testament to our commitment to building a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in the state,” said Dr Rawat.
The selected students’ ideas not only highlight their creativity but also hold the potential to boost local industries and sustainability. Ventures such as making decorative items from waste materials and producing natural, organic products show promise for both economic and environmental impact.
Dr Ranjit Kumar Sinha, Secretary of Higher Education, expressed his pride in the students, noting that the seed fund would fuel their courage to turn their ideas into reality, paving the way for future entrepreneurial ventures. Dr Deepak Kumar Pandey, Assistant Director and State Nodal Officer of the scheme, added, “This initiative offers students the unique opportunity to ground their innovative ideas while sharing their journey with peers, creating a ripple effect of inspiration and learning.”
Dr Amit Kumar Dwivedi, Project Director of the Devbhoomi Udyamita Yojana, and Professor at Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, Ahmedabad, highlighted the long-term support these budding entrepreneurs will receive. “Through continuous guidance and mentoring, we aim to ensure that these students not only start their entrepreneurial journey but thrive as successful business leaders,” he said.
With such impactful initiatives, the Devbhoomi Udyamita Yojana is setting the stage for a new wave of student-led startups, strengthening the state’s future economy and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
