Punjab Minister Harjot Singh Bains Leads Business Blaster Event at IIT Ropar, ₹10 Lakh Granted to Student Startups
Harjot Singh Bains Leads Punjab’s ₹10 Lakh Push for Student Startups at IIT Ropar
Ropar, Punjab – In a bold step toward nurturing entrepreneurship among youth, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains led a landmark Business Blaster Program event at IIT Ropar, empowering 10 student startup teams from government schools with ₹10 lakh in funding. The initiative underscores the Punjab government’s commitment to turning school students into future entrepreneurs and job creators.
The event witnessed participation from key dignitaries including former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney, both of whom applauded the student-led business ideas and pledged support for their ventures.
From Classrooms to Startups: Punjab’s Vision for Innovation
Harjot Singh Bains, in a statement on X, said, “A special event was organized under the Business Blaster Program at IIT Ropar… The aim is to build business thinking, innovation, and marketing skills among students so they can create jobs rather than chase them.”
The Business Blaster Program, inspired by Delhi’s successful education reforms, is being tailored to Punjab’s ecosystem to foster early-stage entrepreneurship at the school level, especially in government-run institutions.
Key Highlights of the Event
- Event Venue: IIT Ropar
- Guest Speakers: Harjot Singh Bains, Manish Sisodia, Vikramjit Sahney
- Beneficiaries: 10 teams of government school students
- Funding Announced: ₹10 lakh total (₹1 lakh per team)
- Objective: Promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and business skills in school students
Students Impress with Real-World Business Ideas
The student teams presented a variety of business ideas—from eco-friendly products and tech innovations to educational tools for rural learning—demonstrating a high level of confidence and professionalism. Several prominent business leaders pledged to mentor and financially assist these teams.
MP Vikramjit Sahney, visibly impressed, announced a personal contribution of ₹10 lakh, emphasizing his belief in the students’ capabilities. “These young minds are shaping the future of Punjab. We must support them with resources and guidance,” he said.
What’s Next? Business Curriculum for 11th & 12th from 2026
In a major policy announcement, Harjot Singh Bains declared that from the academic year 2026–27, all government school students in Classes 11 and 12 will receive formal education in business and marketing under the Punjab Young Entrepreneurs Scheme.
This structured integration of entrepreneurship into the curriculum will include:
- Skill-based modules on marketing, sales, and business development
- Hands-on startup building exercises
- Incubation and mentorship from industry experts
- Annual pitch days and funding opportunities
The Broader Impact
The initiative is not only expected to boost Punjab’s startup culture but also democratize access to business opportunities, especially for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
“This is about more than just business. It’s about giving every child the confidence to lead, solve real-world problems, and build something impactful,” said Bains during his closing remarks.