Port Blair, Sept. 30: The Directorate of Industries, A&N Administration organized a ‘Startup Pitching Session and Open Forum Discussion’ today in the Conference Hall of Directorate of Industries. The event saw an overwhelming response from the students of various colleges of these Islands wherein, the students pitched their ideas and innovations. The young entrepreneurs came up with unique solutions and business models in the open pitching sessions from all sectors that included agriculture, IT, handicrafts etc.

The afternoon session further advanced into the convening of an Open Forum Discussion in which all major stakeholder Departments of the Administration viz. Agriculture, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, APWD, PBMC, ANIIDCO Ltd., Banks, IP&T, ACCI and ICAR-CIARI were invited and the DPIIT recognized startups pitched their products and ideas before the Administration. The Open Forum discussion witnessed a space where startups shared constructive criticism and praise alike.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest, Smti Veditha Reddy, Secretary (Industries), A&N Administration stated that it was heartwarming to witness so many startups in various sectors emerging in the Islands and urged the representatives of various Departments to address the issues faced by startups and provide a handholding support. She further, stressed upon the need for conducting a series of events for the Startups viz. sector based, problem solving, marketing and Investment events, etc. The Secretary (Industries) appreciated the efforts of the startups despite the hardships faced in the recent times.

In his address, Shri Hari Kallikkat, Special Secretary (Industries), A&N Administration expressed his pleasure at the ideas and innovations that were showcased by the Startups and informed that this is a first step towards a series of programmes and workshops that is being conceived for the promotion and strengthening of Startup Eco System in these Islands. He also assured support for the growth and nurture of startups.

Shri Abhishek Bhukal, Director of Industries thanked all the dignitaries, representatives of various Departments and Startups for making the event a success and stated that effective steps will be taken by the Industries Department along with Line Departments for conducting similar programs for promotion of startups in these Islands.