BY EOK NEWS DESK
Jammu, December 24-The Indira Gandhi Govt Dental College, Jammu today lifted the 23rd Veeranna Aivalli Running Team Trophy. Its team comprising Bhedika Billowria and Aastha Sharma were adjudged as the winners in the competition. It was organised by the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), J&K Regional Branch, in collaboration with the J&K Police and the Department of Students Welfare, University of Jammu at Brig Rajinder Singh Auditorium in the Jammu University.
In the individual category , Shivani from GDC Bishnah bagged the first prize of Rs 7000 and the second Prize of Rs 5000 went to Irtiqa Tariq Jammu College of Physiotherapy, and 3rd prize of Rs 3000 to Ms Harpreet Kaur of Deptt of EVS, Jammu University. Besides, three consolation prizes were awarded to Brainya Singh of Bharti College of Education, Vatsalya of Deptt of law, JU and Alvin Singh of the Cluster University of Jammu.
The IIPA, J&K RB annually hosts the Debating Competition in the memory of late Veeranna Aivalli, IPS & founder Honorary Secretary of IIPA for his unprecedented contribution to IIPA and public Administration.
Anand Jain, ADG, Jammu Zone was the Chief Guest while Prof Anju Bhasin, Dean Academic Affairs, Jammu University, and Chairman of IIPA J&K Regional branch & State Election Commissioner, B R Sharma were the Guest of Honour. Former DGP and Patron IIPA Dr Ashok Bhan presided over the well-attended function. Girish Aivalli, son of the late Veeranna Aivalli also attended the function.
The topic of the debate was “ the present Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem is in sync with creating jobs and opportunities for a developed and Atamnirbar Bharat.” Twenty seven teams from various affiliated colleges, University teaching departments, and institutions across the region participated in the competition, showcasing the talent and enthusiasm of the youth.
The Debaters who spoke in favour of the topic, inter alia highlighted how companies like BYJU’S, Ola, and Zomato have played a pivotal role in creating substantial employment opportunities while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. They praised government programs such as “Make in India,” “Startup India,” and “Skill India” for building a supportive ecosystem that promotes economic growth and encourages self-reliance. The opponents contended that the entrepreneurial ecosystem has failed to adequately penetrate rural India, where a majority of the population resides, limiting the reach of its benefits. The lack of quality education and essential resources was identified as a major barrier to ensuring equal opportunities for all. Despite initiatives like “Skill India,” a significant gap in skill development persists, particularly among marginalized communities. Concerns were raised about government schemes disproportionately favouring unicorn start-ups, only, often sidelining small and local businesses.
The ceremony was attended by a distinguished gathering of serving and retired police officers, office bearers and executive committee members of IIPA, faculty members from the University of Jammu, students, and members of the civil society. This event highlighted the bonding between academia, public administration, and civil society, and the continued relevance of Shri Veeranna Aivalli’s vision in inspiring meaningful discussions on critical national issues.
Speaking on the occasion, Anand Jain, applauded the efforts of Jammu University’s students in exploring entrepreneurial ventures and highlighted the transformative impact of sustainability and innovation within the startup ecosystem. He stressed the importance of inclusivity and market accessibility while addressing the challenges posed by market conditions.
B.R. Sharma, spoke about late Aivalli’s humanitarian vision and its alignment with economic growth through entrepreneurship. He further emphasized the need for policy reforms to sustain innovation and foster growth in India’s startup ecosystem, now the third largest globally. He also complimented the Jammu University for scripting history by reaching a milestone of achieving the coveted A++ grade in the NAAC accreditation and becoming one the top most eight universities of the country.
Dr. Ashok Bhan, talked about Aivalli’s intellectual brilliance, bravery, and commitment to selfless public service. He made a strong plea for remembering the sacrifices made by the security forces in fighting terrorism in J&K and said that out of over 7000 security forces who laid down their lives in this fight, more than 1700 men were of J&K police. He said that the present generations need to be sensitized about these sacrifices and pay homage to these Bravehearts. He urged them to contribute actively to nation-building and stand against challenges like terrorism, drawing inspiration from Shri Aivalli’s legacy.
Prof. Anju Bhasin complimented the IIPA Jammu in providing a platform for such academic engagement to the students to express their views on issues that are topical and relevant for their growth. She noted the growing culture of entrepreneurship within Indian universities, which now act as hubs for startups in her speech. She also stressed the importance of channeling funds to genuine, income-generating ideas to address the challenges in securing adequate funds. She emphasized that a shift in mindset, as facilitated by the National Education Policy (NEP), has empowered students to venture into entrepreneurship.
Girish Aivalli, son of late Aivalli, also spoke on the occasion, adding a personal touch to the memorial debate, which honours the legacy of his late father.
Er M.M. Gupta, Director Seminars, IIPA JKRB delivered the welcome address and Prof Alka Sharma, Honorary Secretary IIPA J&K Regional Branch presented the formal vote of thanks. Prof Anil Gupta, Joint Secretary, IIPA conducted the proceedings in the prize distribution function.
Earlier in the day, Prof. Prakash Chand Antahal, Dean, Students’ Welfare, University of Jammu, declared the Competition open. K.B. Jandial, Vice Chairman of IIPA recalled the contributions of late Aivalli and Vikrant Kuthiala, Honorary Treasurer delivered the welcome address, Dr Monika Bhardwaj Teacher in Charge Debate introduced the rules and regulations for the debate competition.
The adjudicators for the event were Prof. Indu Kilam, Dr. Ashok Gupta, and Prof. Komal Nagar and the rapporteurs were Gagandeep Singh Sasan and Ramneet Kour.
The event was coordinated by Mr. Jatin, Mr. Sumit Sharma, Kulbhushan, and Arif, who ensured its smooth execution.