Awantipora: A high-level delegation from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) visited the CIED–IUST Foundation IUST Innovation Campus, today to explore areas of collaboration for strengthening rural innovation, entrepreneurship, and livelihood-based enterprises in Jammu & Kashmir.
A delegation from NABARD, led by General Manager Vikas Mittal, visited the CIED–IUST Foundation, accompanied by key team members including Deputy General Managers from Jammu and Srinagar. The program was presided over by Prof. A. H. Moon, Dean of Academic Affairs at IUST, and attended by various coordinators, faculty, and supported entrepreneurs. The visit included a tour of the incubation and innovation facilities at CIED–IUST, followed by discussions with coordinators, startup founders, and local entrepreneurs, including members of the Bat Cluster Association and beekeepers. Vikas Mittal expressed appreciation for IUST’s initiatives that support young innovators and rural communities, indicating NABARD’s interest in collaborating with CIED–IUST to empower rural entrepreneurs and enhance value chains in Jammu and Kashmir. Prof. A. H. Moon highlighted the significance of innovation and community engagement, describing CIED as a model initiative that connects academia, society, and industry. Additionally, Prof. Parvez A. Mir, CEO of CIED–IUST Foundation, presented the achievements of the incubation center and the positive impact of government-supported programs on entrepreneurship development.
