Youth Flock to Doda's Mission YUVA Entrepreneurship Mela

Doda, June 14: Hundreds of aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, and job seekers from across the district flocked to the Community Hall in Doda on Saturday for the highly anticipated Mission YUVA Entrepreneurship Mela. Organized in collaboration with the Directorate of Employment, Jammu & Kashmir, and District Administration Doda, the event aimed to provide a platform for young entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas and connect with financial institutions and industry experts.

The one-day fair was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh as the chief guest, who commended the creativity and enthusiasm displayed by the young innovators. He described the Mela as a gateway to numerous self-employment schemes and incentives available under Mission YUVA, HADP (Holistic Agriculture Development Programme), and related initiatives.

The event saw participation from over 500 individuals, including those seeking employment, who were provided an opportunity to explore new opportunities, connect with financial institutions, and learn from industry experts. Interactive sessions with successful entrepreneurs, MSME, agricultural, and skill-development experts were also arranged to aid prospective entrepreneurs in navigating registration processes, preparing business plans, and securing funding.

To further boost entrepreneurship in the region, Deputy Commissioner announced the establishment of a Self-Help Group (SHG) Support Center in Doda town, aimed at developing skills and providing financial assistance to women entrepreneurs. Additionally, information desks were set up to enable participants to address their inquiries directly.

The event also featured a vibrant cultural program, including traditional folk dances, skits, and songs by the students and local youth clubs. The event is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy, with experts highlighting the growing scope of sectors like e-commerce, agritech, and service-oriented enterprises.