Shimla hosts ‘Atmanirbhar Yatra’ outreach conference to promote indigenous technology and innovation

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Shimla, July 27

More than 100 startups, industries, researchers, and academic institutions participated in the ‘Atmanirbhar Yatra – Regional Outreach Conference’ held at the Himachal Pradesh Secretariat in Shimla on Monday. The conference was organized jointly by the Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOST) and the Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, in collaboration with the Department of Environment, Science & Technology and Climate Change, Himachal Pradesh.

The conference aimed to connect the state’s startups, MSMEs, industries, and research institutions with central government support schemes while promoting the development and commercialization of indigenous technologies.

The event was inaugurated by Sushil Kumar Singla, Secretary, Department of Environment, Science & Technology and Climate Change, Himachal Pradesh.

Addressing the gathering, Singla said the outreach program was designed to create awareness about the financial and technical assistance available under various Technology Development Board schemes. He said the conference also provided an important platform for innovators, educational institutions, industries, and government agencies to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration.

He said the initiative would help connect Himachal Pradesh’s startups with national-level programs, encourage the commercialization of homegrown technologies, and accelerate industrial development in the state. He added that discussions were also held on promoting environmentally sustainable and technology-driven industries, and a roadmap would be prepared to support the state’s journey towards self-reliance.

The Technology Development Board highlighted its role in supporting the transition of laboratory-developed technologies into commercially viable products by providing financial and technical assistance. It urged startups, MSMEs, and industries in Himachal Pradesh to take full advantage of the Board’s schemes to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.

Among those present at the conference were Dr. Pushpendra Rana, Member Secretary, HIMCOST; Dr. Suresh C. Atri, Joint Member Secretary, HIMCOST; Dr. Kapil Tripathi, Head of the Technology Development Board; and Prof. Mahavir Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University, along with representatives from startups, industries, research organizations, and government departments.