The Kejriwal Government Will Provide ₹40 Crores In Seed Funding To Schoolchildren For The Third Edition Of Business Blasters In Delhi
Delhi News
The Delhi government has launched the third edition of the’ Business Blasters‘ program in its government schools to nurture young entrepreneurial talent. Education Minister Atishi announced during a press conference on Thursday that for the 2024-25 academic year, students will receive a total of Rs 40 crore in seed money to develop their business ideas. This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to fostering student innovation and self-reliance. Currently, 2.45 lakh students are participating, contributing more than 40,000 unique business ideas.
Empowering Young Entrepreneurs
The Business Blasters program has proven to be a transformative initiative encouraging students to think beyond conventional career paths. Education Minister Atishi highlighted the success of past participants who launched innovative startups and created employment opportunities. “I am confident that, as in previous years, our students will once again demonstrate their entrepreneurial spirit and become job providers even before completing their studies,” Atishi said.
This year, the government’s significant allocation of Rs 40 crore underscores its commitment to supporting young minds. The seed money provided to 11th and 12th-grade students enables them to form groups, develop business plans, and launch their startups. The top 150 startups are then opened for public investment, allowing students to scale their operations and attract real-world investors.
Impact on Employment and Economy
Minister Atishi said the young entrepreneurs participating in the Business Blasters program have already made significant economic contributions. Many of these student-led startups generate substantial revenue and provide employment opportunities to many individuals. Atishi noted, “Our young entrepreneurs are not just earning profits but are also contributing to job creation. If 12th-grade students can employ others through their startups, imagine the potential if every child in the country is given the right education and opportunity.”
The program’s emphasis on practical learning and real-world business experience contrasts sharply with the traditional education system, which often focuses solely on theoretical knowledge. Atishi highlighted that the education system across India broadly prepares students to seek jobs rather than create them. This has contributed to the country’s high unemployment rate, with India currently ranked among the top three countries with the highest levels of unemployment. By 2030, an estimated 9 crore jobs will be needed to meet the demands of the growing youth population.
The Delhi government’s Business Blasters program seeks to address this challenge by shifting the focus from job seeking to job creation. “While unemployment is rising, and youth are searching for jobs, the BJP-led central government has not taken significant steps to address this issue,” Atishi stated. In contrast, the Delhi government’s educational reforms aim to equip students with the skills and confidence needed to create their own opportunities and contribute to the economy.
Notable Startups and Success Stories
The Business Blasters program has already seen impressive results, with several student-led startups turning into thriving businesses. Education Minister Atishi shared details of some of these success stories:
- RKE Moulds: This startup, formed by students, specializes in manufacturing bottle molds. It has grown to employ 20 people and generate Rs 13.5 lakh monthly revenue.
- A.K. Logistics: Another standout venture, A.K. Logistics, has successfully entered the transportation sector. The students behind this startup have created jobs for 50 people through their logistics operations.
- Dark Chocobits: This startup, which produces customized chocolates, has become a source of employment for 40 women. The venture provides jobs and supports local communities by empowering women through sustainable employment.
- Disposal Wala: This environmentally conscious business employs 20 individuals and focuses on producing and distributing eco-friendly disposable products. The students behind this initiative have showcased how sustainability and entrepreneurship can go hand-in-hand.
- Padhai-Vadhai: This education-focused startup has provided employment to 10 people by offering innovative learning solutions and tutoring services.
These examples highlight how the Business Blasters program has fostered a new generation of entrepreneurs who are ideating and actively contributing to economic growth and job creation.
A Vision for the Future
Minister Atishi reiterated that the Business Blasters program is part of the broader vision to transform the educational landscape in Delhi. By equipping students with practical business skills and the confidence to take risks, the program aims to nurture a culture of innovation. The long-term goal is to ensure that students graduate with academic knowledge and the ability to become leaders in their fields, capable of driving economic and social change.
The Business Blasters initiative is a testament to how education can be reimagined to meet modern challenges. With continuous improvements and community support, the Delhi government’s efforts are paving the way for a future where students do not just dream of jobs but of creating them. This program’s success reflects young entrepreneurs’ potential to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy and reduce unemployment through creative and effective solutions.
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