Shillong: The North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) on Friday hosted the IIC Regional Meet 2025, drawing over 500 participants from institutions across the Northeast. Organised by the Innovation Cell of the Ministry of Education (MIC) and the AICTE, the day-long event took place at NEHU’s Multi-Convention Hall.
The programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by an address from Prof. Dinesh Bhatia, SPOC of the Meet. Prof. G. Bez delivered the welcome speech, while Prof. I. Hussain, Dean of the School of Technology, shared brief remarks. Guest of Honour Triailukya Dutta, CEO of Tholua Pratishthan, and Kunaljeet Singh, Director, AICTE, addressed the gathering. Chief Guest Smt. Saloni Verma, IAS, Executive Director of the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency and MD of PRIME Hub, highlighted the need to build stronger local innovation ecosystems.
A central inaugural session was held virtually with 26 host institutions across India. Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE, delivered the national keynote address, and representatives from several institutions shared their innovation experiences.
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The event featured knowledge-sharing sessions, ToT modules for Innovation Ambassadors, masterclasses, one-to-one mentoring, and pitching sessions. The “Swadesh Udyami Bazaar” showcased locally developed products under the theme Vocal for Local.
The valedictory session, addressed by distinguished academics and innovation leaders, underscored the role of entrepreneurship in regional development. Awards and certificates were distributed before the programme concluded with a group photograph and high tea.
