The National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) Kohima successfully concluded its Startup Pitching Competition on November 4, 2023, at the NIELIT Kohima Auditorium. The event, themed "TECHNOVATE 3.0: Think, Visualize, and Realize," drew 23 startups from across the State, with 10 shortlisted to pitch their ideas to a panel of judges. The event was organised in collaboration with Startup Nagaland, Dept of Industries & Commerce.
Director Er L. Lanuwabang of NIELIT Kohima welcomed the attendees and stressed the organization's dedication to promoting collaboration, innovation, and industry growth. Virtual chief guest, Prof. Dr. M.M. Tripathi, Director General of NIELIT appreciated and congratulated the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland, for taking various initiatives to promote entrepreneurship and startup culture in the state.
Dr. Tripathi praised NIELIT Kohima for organizing the event and encouraged youth to harness innovation as a means to create economic opportunities. He emphasized that even small ideas can lead to new journeys. Dr. Tripathi expressed a desire to see excellence in three areas for Nagaland: Cyber Security, Generative AI, and Drone Technologies, stating their importance for the state.
Following the pitching competition, Anubhav Tiwari, Chief Evangelist at Questbook (CreatorOS Inc.), conducted a workshop where he shared his expertise and innovative insights on setting up a successful startup. He engaged with participants from all Northeastern states, including students and NIELIT officials, offering mentorship and support to upcoming startups.
Abishek Mishra, Additional Director at STPI, who was also a panel member for the competition, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in nurturing startups within the region. T Lemnaon Wangsha, Joint Director of Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland, graced the valedictory and highlighted the various initiatives undertaken by the department to support startups in the state. She also awarded prizes to the winners of the event.
"NAGA TOONS" emerged as the winner of the Startup Pitching Competition, and receiving a cash prize of INR 60,000. TechiCynics secured the second position and was awarded a cash prize of INR 40,000, while Unimestudio claimed the third position with a cash prize of INR 20,000. Consolation prizes of INR 10,000 were awarded to two teams, GigLogics and Diverse. The Grand Prize for the event was sponsored by Startup Nagaland.
(DIPR)
