Shillong(Meghalaya), May 11: Innovation met local culture at North-Eastern Hill University on Sunday as the Innovation, Design and Entrepreneurship Bootcamp 2026 opened in collaboration with the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell and the All India Council for Technical Education. More than 170 participants, entrepreneurs, resource persons, and team members from across Meghalaya gathered for the event that aims to push youth-led startups and practical exposure to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The inaugural began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and Saraswati Vandana. Prof. Dinesh Bhatia, Coordinator and SPOC of the bootcamp, spoke on how entrepreneurship in India has transformed after the COVID-19 pandemic and pointed to the country’s rising global innovation standing. He urged students to innovate fearlessly to build a self-reliant nation.
Vikas Verma, Managing Editor at MIC and AICTE, made the session interactive by using the success story of Netflix to explain digital disruption and entrepreneurship, encouraging participants to think creatively. Guest speaker RajKiran Pund assured students that by the end of the bootcamp every participant would learn to pitch ideas effectively, adding that this was his tenth bootcamp as a mentor to young innovators.
Prof. Ghanashyam Bez, representing the university administration, welcomed the strong youth turnout and acknowledged students who travelled from different regions for hands-on startup exposure. Chief Guest Prof. S. Umdor, Pro-Vice Chancellor of NEHU, told participants to draw inspiration from their surroundings and local culture. He cited Khasi Ryndia, the traditional silk produced without harming silkworms, as an example of how sustainability and indigenous practices can shape globally relevant ventures.
A major draw was the exhibition featuring students, entrepreneurs, and local artisans from Shillong and nearby areas. Stalls displayed handmade crafts, herbal teas, crochet products, desserts, sustainable jewellery, local wines, eco-friendly products, and regional specialties, reflecting Meghalaya’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.
Dr. Suktilang Majaw delivered the vote of thanks, thanking dignitaries, faculty, organisers, and students for their participation. The IDE Bootcamp 2026 brought together innovation, local culture, sustainability, and youth-driven entrepreneurship, giving participants a platform for practical learning and direct engagement with the startup ecosystem.
