Srinagar, Nov 16 ( KINS ) : Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, speaking at the inaugural session of the CSIR Healthcare Theme Conclave at SKICC, highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s pivotal role in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation (‘Viksit Bharat’). Addressing a diverse audience of scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators, he emphasized the region’s untapped potential in biotechnology, space technology, and startups.
“Jammu and Kashmir is poised to become a bio-economy hub and a driver of the next industrial revolution,” Dr. Singh stated. He shared India’s extraordinary growth in the startup ecosystem, now the third-largest globally, and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary policies, such as the launch of Startup India, for igniting this transformation.
Dr. Singh also showcased India’s advancements in the space sector, achieved through robust public-private partnerships. “From single-digit collaborations three years ago, we now have over 300 global-standard partners working with ISRO. Our first-generation space startups are celebrated entrepreneurs today,” he noted.
The Minister highlighted India’s booming bio-economy, which has grown from $10 billion in 2014 to $130 billion today, with an ambitious goal of $300 billion by 2030. Pointing to J&K’s lavender cultivation success, he called on the youth to harness the region’s natural resources and reimagine career opportunities.
Dr. Singh also urged young innovators to become “architects of 2047 India,” emphasizing the importance of bridging generational knowledge gaps through initiatives like this conclave. He stressed the critical role of Himalayan states, including J&K, in driving sustainable growth and innovation as resources elsewhere diminish.
The two-day conclave will explore advancements in healthcare, biotechnology, and sustainable development, featuring exhibitions of cutting-edge innovations by startups. The event is expected to inspire collaborations and investments, reinforcing Jammu and Kashmir’s role in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in science and technology.( KINS )