SHILLONG, NOV 28: The North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) on Friday hosted the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC) Regional Meet 2025, drawing over 500 participants from higher education institutions across the Northeast. The event, organised under the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell (MIC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), was held at the Multi-Convention Hall, NEHU Campus, Shillong.
The programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by an introductory address by Prof. Dinesh Bhatia, SPOC of the Regional Meet. Prof. G. Bez, Chairperson of the Meet, delivered the welcome speech, and Prof. I. Hussain, Dean, School of Technology, also addressed the gathering.
Guest of Honour Mr. Triailukya Dutta, CEO of Tholua Pratishthan, and Sh. Kunaljeet Singh, Director, AICTE, shared insights on promoting innovation ecosystems. Chief Guest Smt. Saloni Verma, IAS, Executive Director of the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency and Managing Director of PRIME Hub, emphasised the need to empower local innovators and strengthen regional entrepreneurial capacities.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. S.P. Pati, Convener of the Meet, followed by the National Anthem and a group photograph.
National-Level Virtual Inauguration
A central inauguration was also held virtually at 11 a.m., coordinated with 26 host institutions across the country. The session included an introduction by Dr. Dipan Sahu, Assistant Innovation Director, Innovation Cell, AICTE, followed by the national keynote address by Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE. Representatives from host institutions, including NEHU, shared institutional efforts to nurture innovation. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the National Anthem.
Workshops, Masterclasses & Innovation Bazaar
The day featured knowledge-sharing sessions, Training of Trainers modules for Innovation Ambassadors, masterclasses led by ecosystem partners, one-to-one mentoring, and pitching opportunities.
A key highlight was the “Swadesh Udyami Bazaar,” showcasing locally developed products and innovations under the theme “Vocal for Local.”
Valedictory Ceremony
The valedictory session held in the evening featured remarks from Dr. Sukti Majaw, along with keynote messages by:
Prof. Amit Choudhary, Dean, SoTM, USTM
Prof. Debmalaya Bhattacharya, Pro-Vice Chancellor, MIT University, Shillong
Prof. S.K. Dixit, Registrar, NEHU
Dr. Ramakrishnan R, School of Design Thinking, Chennai
Chief Guest Dr. Laxmi Rao, Adviser, PRIME Hub, highlighted the critical role of entrepreneurship in regional economic growth. Awards and certificates were then distributed to participants. The event concluded with closing remarks by Prof. Bhatia, followed by a group photograph and high tea.
The IIC Regional Meet 2025 aims to strengthen innovation-driven education, build networks among institutions, and create a collaborative platform for students, researchers, start-ups, and academic leaders.
