Chandigarh, Jan 12: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated Punjab’s first Startup Conclave at Lovely Professional University on Monday, pledging full institutional support to transform the state into a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The event, organized by the Department of Industries and Commerce, saw the participation of over 100 startups and the disbursal of seed grants to emerging businesses.
The Chief Minister asserted that the state’s future rests on the shoulders of entrepreneurs rather than job seekers.
He introduced “Update and Create” as the new guiding principle for the youth, promising that no viable business idea would fail due to a lack of resources.
“We want the youth of the state to be job givers instead of job seekers,” the Chief Minister mentioned while interacting with entrepreneurs.
He noted that Punjabis possess a natural aptitude for engineering and business, which ensures their success in any global endeavor.
During the event, the government distributed incentive cheques to eight startups, including seed grants of ₹3 lakh each and lease rental assistance.
More than 15 incubators and various support organizations showcased their initiatives, reflecting the growing depth of the local ecosystem.
“Startups are the biggest engines for creating new jobs and boosting the economic growth of the state,” Mann directly said.
He also contrasted the current administration’s approach with previous regimes, stating that earlier leaders demand shares in private ventures, whereas the current government provides a fair chance for every individual to succeed.
The Chief Minister drew inspiration from his recent visit to Japan, urging the youth to adopt a forward-thinking mindset and a culture of hard work. He noted that the Punjab government is acting as a “runway” for the dreams of the younger generation to take flight, citing successful Punjabis at the helm of global giants like Mastercard, Swiggy, and Zomato.
