CHANDIGARH/MOHALI, JAN 19 — Aspiring entrepreneurs and tech experts gathered at CGC Landran for the ARISE Punjab 2026 Summit to develop AI-driven solutions aimed at achieving the “Viksit Bharat 2047” national vision. Organized in partnership with Startup Punjab, the two-day event functioned as a regional precursor to the India–AI Impact Summit 2026, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Startup India initiative.
The summit focused on the responsible application of Artificial Intelligence to tackle regional challenges, ranging from manufacturing efficiency to the environmental impact of paddy straw burning. Policy dialogues held throughout the event aimed to streamline financial support for local innovators and strengthen the state’s technological infrastructure.
“Institutions like CGC Landran play a critical role in preparing young minds to design, build, and lead in an AI-driven future,” noted Lt. Col. Aman Singh during his keynote address. He further discussed the strategic importance of integrating AI within national defense and governance frameworks.
A central feature of the gathering was an Innovation Challenge where 40 teams presented scalable business models. These pitches focused on sustainable farming practices and increasing the digital visibility of “Punjab Made” products in the global e-commerce market.
“Research-driven innovation and the commercialization of STEM-based solutions are essential,” Dr. Dapinder Kaur Bakshi said, while addressing faculty and students. She noted the importance of the GRIP Scheme for grassroots innovators and the SHE Program for women entrepreneurs as vital tools for development.
Reflecting on the state’s evolving business climate, Dr. Divneet Kaur, Founder and CEO of Dermabay Skincare, noted that the quality of education in Punjab is actively nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurs. This sentiment was supported by Bharti Sood, Senior Regional Director of PHDCCI, who noted that chambers of commerce are uniquely positioned to connect new founders with experienced mentors and industry leaders to ensure long-term viability.
Dr. Rajdeep Singh, Campus Director of CGC Landran, expressed gratitude to the Startup Punjab Mission for its role in the event’s success. He noted that the institution remains committed to helping India emerge as a global hub for technological advancement through inclusive innovation.
Supported by NITI Aayog, the ACIC RISE Association has already incubated more than 125 startups. These ventures span various sectors, including drone technology, healthcare, and waste management. The association’s ongoing collaboration with the Startup Punjab Mission continues to bridge the gap between rural and urban innovation hubs.
The summit concluded with a vision for the future of the state’s economy, where officials noted that the success of alumni-led startups serves as evidence of the institution’s role in transforming innovators into job creators. By focusing on ideation and entrepreneurship, the program aims to provide students with the tools necessary to contribute to national development through practical, tech-heavy solutions.
