A Startup Hackathon and Pitching Competition organised by the Directorate of Industries, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, commenced at the Conference Hall of the Directorate of Industries to mark the Celebration of Innovation Month and the completion of 10 years of the Startup India initiative.
The event was conducted in collaboration with higher education institutions across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and invited students to propose innovative solutions to pressing issues faced by the Union Territory. The initiative received a strong response, with participation from students representing Pondicherry University–Andaman Campus, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Institute of Technology, Tagore Government College of Education, Andaman College and Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya.
The hackathon was conceptualised under the guidance of Atul Soni, Director of Industries, Andaman and Nicobar Administration. Ajit Anand, Deputy Director, Directorate of Industries, welcomed the participants and dignitaries at the inaugural session. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the growing trend of students taking up entrepreneurship and encouraged participants to adopt innovative and unconventional approaches while developing startup ideas. He noted that many well-known enterprises had originated from simple innovations driven by young minds.
The inaugural session also featured inputs from representatives of financial and development institutions. Ummer Farooque, Chief Manager, Union Territory Level Bankers’ Committee, briefed students on the role of banks in supporting startups and the assistance available for aspiring entrepreneurs. E. Pratap, Deputy General Manager, NABARD, described startup creation as a demanding but fulfilling process, emphasising the importance of persistence and commitment in translating ideas into viable ventures.
Vijay Kumar, Senior Sanitary Inspector, Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council, addressed the participants and urged them to focus on innovative solutions in the area of waste management, particularly in urban and public spaces. His remarks aligned with several of the problem statements presented during the competition.
Following the inaugural session, the Startup Pitching Competition was held, during which students presented their ideas before a panel. The problem statements covered areas including tourist navigation systems, waste management at tourist destinations and improvements in public toilet facilities. Participants showcased concept-based and solution-oriented proposals aimed at addressing practical challenges within the islands.
Mohammed Islaque, Deputy Director, Directorate of Industries, delivered the vote of thanks and encouraged students to continue engaging with the startup ecosystem and participate actively in future innovation-driven initiatives.
The valedictory function of the Startup Hackathon and Pitching Competition is scheduled to be held on January 31, 2026, during which the best ideas and solutions presented by the students will be formally recognised.
