MP Vikram Sahney for boosting startup ecosystem in Punjab

From infrastructural issues to delay in GST refunds and product retailing hassles, startups based in Punjab shared their plight during a roundtable conference organised at the initiative of Rajya Sabha MP Dr Vikramjit Singh Sahney in association with Innovation Mission Punjab here today.

To boost the startup ecosystem in the state, Dr Sahney advocated speedy release of GST refund to startups, giving purchase preference to them in government tenders and making paddy straw-based biofuel compulsory for industry and thermal power plants.

Over 30 startups, five leading incubators, industry stalwarts and government representatives attended the conference.

Dr Sahney stated that Punjab youth had immense entrepreneurial talent, and “our mission is to empower them with the necessary ecosystem, mentorship, and financial support to scale their ventures globally”.

Punjab Industry Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a robust startup culture. “The government will provide all necessary policy and infrastructural support to enable these ventures reach their full potential,” he added. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The initiative will create new opportunities for our startups and entrepreneurs.”

Rajinder Gupta, Chairman of Trident Group, highlighted the importance of industry mentorship in nurturing startups. “Established industry leaders have a responsibility to guide and support budding entrepreneurs. At Trident, we believe in fostering innovation and will extend our expertise to help these startups scale up and navigate industry challenges.”