National Vision and Regional Potential
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that the Frontier Region Programme aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. He emphasized that Jammu & Kashmir, with its underexplored resources and growing innovation ecosystem, holds significant potential to contribute to India’s economy and technology landscape. The Minister described the program as a “dual celebration,” integrating Kashmir University into national innovation initiatives while extending AIM’s network to frontier regions.
He further noted that as India advances in global economic rankings, value addition will increasingly come from regions like J&K, which have now received focused attention through government programs like the Aroma Mission.
Empowering Students Through ATLs
The 500 new ATLs will form the largest share of 2,500 labs sanctioned for frontier regions, with an investment of ₹100 crore. The labs aim to nurture creativity, problem-solving skills, and hands-on experience in emerging technologies for school students. By fostering early exposure to innovation, AIM hopes to cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs and inventors from the Union Territory.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha praised the initiative, calling it a tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He emphasized that ATLs empower students to innovate, develop self-learning skills, and create solutions for local challenges in agriculture, handicrafts, tourism, and disaster management.
Collaboration and Capacity Building
Dr. Deepak Bagla, Mission Director of AIM, underlined the importance of public-private collaboration and last-mile innovation. He praised J&K’s student talent and reaffirmed AIM’s commitment to connecting schools, universities, and incubators. Organizations such as Boeing India, Amazon India, Pi Jam Foundation, and Learning Links Foundation committed to supporting innovation at the school level.
The launch included a roundtable for incubators in J&K to chart collaborative pathways for entrepreneurship and resource-sharing. A Coffee Table Book highlighting success stories of student innovators was released, and the ATL Sarthi partnership between AIM and the University of Kashmir was formalized.
Student-Led Innovation and Cultural Showcase
The event featured interactions with the top 50 student projects, demonstrating creativity and problem-solving skills. The day concluded with cultural performances, blending J&K’s rich heritage with the spirit of innovation, reinforcing the role of ATLs in shaping an aspirational and future-ready youth in the region.
