Governor Inaugurates Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Conclave 2026 in Raipur, Calls for Greater Focus on Agri-Innovation and Startups
Raipur : Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka has called upon young people to look beyond conventional employment and develop the confidence to turn innovative ideas into enterprises that can create jobs for others.
He was speaking at the inauguration of the Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Conclave 2026 at the Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV) campus in Raipur. The three-day conclave is being held from September 28 to 30 and brings together young innovators, students, researchers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders.
On the occasion, Governor Deka also inaugurated the Subhash Chandra Bose Biotechnology Incubation Centre, established on the IGKV campus. The centre is intended to provide incubation and technical support for innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in biotechnology and agriculture-related areas.
From Ideas to Successful Startups
Governor Deka said a good idea can develop into a successful startup when it receives proper guidance, appropriate technology and systematic support.
He encouraged young people to think not only about securing jobs but also about becoming entrepreneurs who can create employment opportunities for others.
According to the Governor, entrepreneurship requires more than an innovative idea. Before launching a startup, young entrepreneurs should understand market demand, assess the potential of their product or service and prepare a clear business plan and roadmap.
He also stressed that hard work and training need to be supported by market research, management capabilities and financial understanding.
Agriculture Offers Major Scope for Innovation
Highlighting Chhattisgarh’s economic strengths, Governor Deka said agriculture offers significant opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.
He pointed to sectors such as agriculture, forest produce, food processing, millets, organic farming, animal husbandry and tribal products as areas where young entrepreneurs can explore new opportunities.
He said increasing food production alone would not be sufficient to meet the requirements of a growing population. The adoption of new technologies, improved production methods and innovative approaches would also be important.
The Governor also emphasised the importance of achieving greater self-reliance in the production of essential food items.
Innovations Should Help Farmers Reduce Costs
Governor Deka said agricultural and biotechnology innovations can play an important role in the state’s development if they address practical challenges faced by farmers.
He called for innovations that can:
- Reduce the cost of agricultural inputs
- Increase crop productivity and quality
- Minimise crop losses
- Improve access to markets
- Help farmers obtain better prices for their produce
- Make agriculture more sustainable and competitive
Such solutions, he said, can strengthen farmers’ incomes while improving the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.
The Governor also advocated renewed attention to kitchen gardens and the traditional ‘badi’ concept, saying such initiatives can contribute to household economic security.
Skills and Entrepreneurship Need Greater Focus
Governor Deka stressed that education should be accompanied by relevant skills so that young people can increase their family incomes and contribute to economic development.
He said entrepreneurship and skill development can also help create employment opportunities for others.
The conclave is being organised with the participation and support of institutions including IIT Bhilai, NIT Raipur, IIIT Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh Council of Science and Technology, Chhattisgarh Biotech Promotion Society and NABARD. The programme includes innovation showcases, startup-related activities, expert sessions, mentorship and opportunities for interaction among innovators and other stakeholders.
The newly inaugurated biotechnology incubation centre is also expected to provide a platform for research, incubation and commercialisation of innovations. The centre is located at the IGKV campus and is part of the Chhattisgarh biotechnology ecosystem.
The conclave is aimed at strengthening the state’s innovation and startup ecosystem and encouraging young people to move from ideas to innovation and from innovation to entrepreneurship.
