Dr Jitendra hosts luncheon interaction with J&K youth, discusses StartUp, entrepreneurship opportunities
STATE TIMES NEWS
NEW DELHI: In a luncheon interaction hosted for a group of Jammu & Kashmir youth currently on a visit to Delhi as a part of the Central Government’s Youth Exchange Programme, Union Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh discussed the enormous StartUp, entrepreneurship and livelihood opportunities being provided by the Modi Government and and urged them to avail of the same.
The Minister engaged in an insightful conversation with the youth urging them to take advantage of various Central Government initiatives aimed at empowering them financially and professionally. A total of 125 students from Jammu & Kashmir participated in the programme, gaining exposure to opportunities available under government schemes.
Dr. Jitendra highlighted several schemes, including the StartUps, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, PM Mudra etc which offer skill training, modern tools, and financial support to artisans and traditional craftsmen.
He encouraged youth from Kashmir to explore opportunities in their region’s rich heritage industries, such as Pashmina weaving and wood carving, to secure sustainable livelihoods. He emphasized that the scheme not only enhances skill sets but also ensures economic stability by providing financial incentives and employment prospects.
The Minister also spoke extensively about the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, which enables aspiring entrepreneurs to obtain collateral-free loans of up to Rs 20 lakh, removing financial barriers that often discourage young people from starting businesses. He urged the attendees to take proactive steps in utilizing such schemes to launch their own ventures and contribute to economic development.
Furthermore, Dr. Jitendra stressed the importance of Svamitva, a scheme aimed at providing land ownership rights to individuals, which could be instrumental in resolving property disputes and securing financial backing for business initiatives. He encouraged the youth to spread awareness about these programs within their communities so that more people could benefit.
The Minister commended the technological advancements in Kashmir’s apple industry, where modern interventions have doubled apple production and improved shelf life, allowing farmers to expand their markets beyond the region. He urged young minds to embrace such technological innovations and drive progress in their respective fields.
He cited examples of determined students who, despite financial and logistical challenges, successfully pursued higher education through digital learning resources.
Dr. Singh also suggested that the visiting students explore places representing modern India, beyond traditional tourist destinations like Qutub Minar and India Gate. He emphasized the importance of visiting institutions such as the National Physical Laboratory and the Prime Ministers’ Museum, where they could witness India’s scientific progress and governance evolution firsthand. He stressed that such exposure would help them understand how heritage and development go hand in hand in shaping the nation’s future.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Jitendra underscored the importance of self-awareness and career planning, advising students to identify their strengths and align their aspirations accordingly. He reassured the youth that the government remains committed to their development and urged them to seize the available opportunities for a brighter future.
