Union Minister of Education and Skill Development, Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated the I-Hub foundation at the Indian Institute of Management-Sambalpur (IIM-S) during the 100 Cube Startup Conclave held recently. The I-Hub foundation is designed to operate as both a physical and virtual incubator and accelerator, fostering connections with various facets of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

During the inauguration, Pradhan emphasized the significance of the year 2036, which will mark the centenary of Odisha as a separate state based on language. He stressed the importance of fulfilling responsibilities within this timeframe, particularly in the context of transitioning towards a knowledge-based economy. Pradhan articulated a vision where the focus shifts from merely hiring the new generation to empowering them as employers, with startups being provided necessary resources, support, and financial backing to foster employment creation in Odisha and promote self-reliance among youth.

The 100 Cube Conclave, an initiative of the Ministry of Education, aims to establish 100 startups within the IIM-S premises, each with an approximate value of ₹100 crore by Odisha’s centennial celebration in 2036. The I-Hub foundation is poised to play a crucial role in nurturing and supporting innovative ventures across various sectors, including textiles, arts and culture, agriculture, healthcare, financial and digital inclusivity, tribal entrepreneurship, and sustainability, among others.

Pradhan hailed the 100 Cube Startup as a symbol of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial culture, highlighting the rich talent pool present in Sambalpur and its surrounding areas. Notably, Sambalpur boasts national-level institutions such as IIM-S, Sambalpur University, Gangadhar Meher University, VIMSAR, and VSSUT, which further contribute to the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The event also featured an exhibition showcasing 50 startups from various districts of Odisha, including Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, and Bargarh, underscoring the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and potential for growth within the state.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated Project ODISERV in Odisha, a skill development initiative launched by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and Bajaj Finserv Ltd. The project aims to provide training to graduates, particularly first-generation graduates, through Bajaj Finserv’s Certificate Programme for Banking Finance & Insurance (CPBFI) programme. The training, spanning 100 hours, targets youth from tier-II and tier-III cities, preparing them for employment in the financial services sector. Pradhan emphasized that Project ODISERV will empower the youth, enhance their employability, and help them achieve their aspirations. He highlighted that 1100 students in Odisha have already undergone training under the project, with some receiving job offers.

Project ODISERV marks the first initiative resulting from the collaboration between NSDC and Bajaj Finserv, announced in December 2023. Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman & Managing Director of Bajaj Finserv, underscored the importance of skilling and youth employment in driving India’s economic growth, emphasizing Bajaj Finserv’s commitment to social impact initiatives through skill development. The launch event, held at Gangadhar Meher University (GMU) in Sambalpur, Odisha, signifies a significant step towards bridging the skill gap and fostering economic empowerment among the youth, particularly in smaller cities and towns. With a focus on providing industry-relevant training, Project ODISERV aims to contribute to India’s vision of becoming a global economic powerhouse by harnessing the potential of its young workforce.

Pratyasa Ray, representing Odisha and Utkal University, emerged as the shining star at the 4th Khelo India University Games (KIUG) held across seven northeastern states. The talented swimmer, a product of Odisha IIS Swimming HPC, showcased her prowess by clinching an impressive haul of 4 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze medal, making her the most successful female athlete of the event. At just 21 years old, Pratyasa’s remarkable performance adds to her previous successes, having secured multiple medals in the previous editions of KIUG as well.

Meanwhile, the title of the most successful male athlete was awarded to Xavier Michael D’souza from Jain University, who secured 4 gold medals. Chandigarh University emerged victorious in the team standings, clinching the coveted team title with an outstanding tally of 32 gold, 18 silver, and 21 bronze medals. Following closely behind were Lovely Professional University from Punjab’s Phagwara, securing 20 gold, 14 silver, and 8 bronze medals, and Guru Nanak Dev University from Amritsar, with 12 gold, 20 silver, and 19 bronze medals, finishing second and third respectively.

Pratyasa Ray’s stellar performance not only brings pride to Odisha and Utkal University but also underscores the immense talent and potential within the Indian sporting landscape. Her achievements serve as a testament to dedication, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence in the field of athletics.