New Delhi, May 11 (IANS) Atal Innovation Mission on Monday organised the Regional AIM SUMVAAD – Central India Edition at Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology in Indore, bringing together key stakeholders from government, industry, academia, startups and incubators to strengthen State-Centre collaboration and build a stronger innovation ecosystem across the region.

The initiative aimed at deepening engagement between governments, startups, incubators and industry leaders while promoting inclusive entrepreneurship and innovation-led growth through collaborative partnerships.

Representatives from Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh participated in the regional conclave alongside startup councils, CSR partners, incubators and ecosystem enablers.

The event featured discussions on strengthening incubation ecosystems, scaling state-led innovation initiatives and improving coordination between governments, academia, industry and startup ecosystems.

The sessions focused on enabling innovation-driven economic growth and creating opportunities for startups in emerging sectors.

Speaking at the event, Deepak Bagla, Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, said incubators form the backbone of a dynamic startup ecosystem by transforming ideas into impactful ventures.

He said Atal Innovation Mission, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Biotechnology and DPIIT, is working towards strengthening the startup ecosystem through improved infrastructure, mentorship, funding access and collaborative initiatives such as AIM SUMVAAD.

Himanshu Rai, Director of IIM Indore said India’s startup ecosystem is moving from a service mindset to a science mindset, adding that DeepTech innovation would require patient capital and a stronger focus on long-term research rather than quick returns.

Viraj Bhanage, Director – Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT) and Chairman – AIC π-Hub, highlighted the role of incubators in supporting the next generation of startups and said initiatives like AIM SUMVAAD help strengthen ties between entrepreneurs, institutions and ecosystem enablers.

Dr. Abha Rishi, Executive Head – Madhya Pradesh Startup Centre, said incubators are central to building a sustainable innovation ecosystem and driving entrepreneurship across the country.

During the conclave, a special session on building effective people and culture in incubation centres focused on creating sustainable entrepreneurship models capable of adapting to changing market conditions.

–IANS

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