Bhaderwah, January 30: Students of School of Management Studies, Bhaderwah Campus, University of Jammu, brought laurels to the institution by securing prestigious awards at the Annual Startup Mela – Startup Idea Challenge 2025–26, organized by the Industries & Commerce Department, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI). The students showcased innovative startup ideas and demonstrated commendable entrepreneurial skills on this highly competitive and reputed platform.
After qualifying through three rigorous stages of evaluation, the startup ideas presented by the students were shortlisted and awarded across different categories. The awards were conferred by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, adding further distinction and significance to this notable achievement.
Under the Sustainability Stars Award category, Ms. Prakriti Dutt, a student of MBA 4th Semester, emerged as the winner and received a cash prize of ₹25,000 for her innovative and sustainable startup idea. Mr. Arif, a student of BBA 6th Semester, was honoured with the Rural Impact Award and also received a cash prize of ₹25,000 for his startup concept aimed at fostering rural development. Additionally, Mr. Rohit Bhagat received the Jury Recommended Award along with a cash prize of ₹10,000, recognizing the originality and future potential of his startup idea.
Prof. Rahul Gupta, Rector, Bhaderwah Campus, congratulated the award-winning students and applauded their creativity, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. He remarked that such accomplishments reflect the vibrant and evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem at Bhaderwah Campus and reaffirm the institution’s commitment to promoting innovation, leadership, and startup culture among students. He further emphasized that platforms like the Startup Mela play a crucial role in translating academic ideas into practical, real-world solutions.
Dr. Umesh Choudhary, Head, School of Management Studies, Bhaderwah Campus, expressed immense pride in the outstanding performance of the students. He stated that the success achieved is the result of continuous mentoring, academic guidance, and a strong emphasis on experiential and outcome-based learning within the department.
Dr. Umesh Choudhary also placed on record his sincere appreciation for the dedicated efforts of the faculty members, Dr. Rohit Bhagat, Dr. Mohammed Avais, Dr. Umar Sadeeq, Dr. Shabir Hussain, Asma Jamil, Surbi Langeh, Dr. Alyas Ahmed, Amit, Rajinder Kumar, Mehmood Ahmed, and Bhumeeka Katoch whose constant encouragement, guidance and academic support played a pivotal role in nurturing the entrepreneurial mindset of the students.
He further encouraged students to actively participate in such competitive platforms, as they provide valuable exposure and opportunities for holistic professional development.
