Young Naga innovators shine at Startup Green Innovation Challenge

Dimapur, August 17 (MExN): A Startup Green Innovation Challenge for Nagaland innovators was organised at YouthNet Incubation Centre, Dimapur on August 16. It was organised by Sustainable Development Goals Coordination Centre (SDGCC) Nagaland, YouthNet, AIC SELCO Foundation, NTTC, supported by Startup Nagaland, Department of Industries and Commerce and AIM NITI Ayog. 

The event witnessed promising innovators that are addressing pressing environmental challenges through ground breaking solutions, stated an update from YouthNet office. 

The Startup Green Innovation Challenge aimed to identify and promote promising innovators that are addressing pressing environmental challenges through ground breaking technological solutions; whilst fostering Innovation, supporting entrepreneurship development, creating networking opportunities and driving positive socio-economic impact. 

The first edition focused its attention in the fields of mechanical technology and biotechnology that involves machines in its value chain development, while exception was made for Women and Students category. The selection process for the Startup Green Innovation Challenge was based on the innovation and creativity, environmental impact, viability and scalability, market potential, financial stability, presentation and communication.

The event was hosted by Neikepekho Shosahie, Manager YIC, welcome address by Nune Chase; Director YouthNet. A special address was delivered by Dr Simanta Kalita, CEO, AIC SELCO Foundation. Dr Kalita was impressed by the number of innovations coming from various corners of the state, whilst the platform providing opportunities to all with no bar for of education qualification, multi linguistic, PWDs, Women, Students etc 

The judging panels were Dr Simanta Kalita, Kenei Theunuo, Team Leader, Startup India and Deputy Director of Directorate of Industries & Commerce, Nunesenuo Chase; Director of YouthNet, K Phyobem,  SDG Officer from SDGCC Nagaland, G Barthakur, Program Coordinator of AIC SELCO Foundation, Er Awalo Keppen, Assistant Manager of Nagaland Tool-Room & Training Centre.

The winners and runner up won a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and Rs 20,000 respectively for Rural Technology, Waste Management and Women Innovator categories, while Student Innovators winners and Runner up won Rs 30,000 and Rs 10,000 respectively. 

Result

Rural Technology

Winner: Ajon Konyak with his innovation, ‘Portable Mini Band Saw’ from Mon district

Runner-up: Tumong with his innovation, ‘Smokeless (Electric/Solar) Stove’ from Noklak district

Waste Management

Winner: Kelhousesi from Kuda Waste Solutions with their innovation, ‘Waste Segregator and Product Development’ from Dimapur district
Runner-up: Zaiyigum Zeliang from Zeliang Codetech with their innovation, ‘SGDMS 1.0V’ from Dimapur district

Women Innovator

Winner: Lovi Achumi with her innovation, ‘Lemonade Juices (LEMO)’ from Dimapur district

Runner-up: Inaholi Zhimomi with her innovation, ‘Crochet Crafting’ from Chümoukedima district

Student Innovator: 

Winner: Zenwang Konyak & A Khampei Wangnao (Kohima Science College and SET) with their innovation, ‘Multipurpose Plucking Tool’ from Mon district

Runner-up: Hope Academy Robotics Club with their innovation, ‘Smart Cap for the Visually Impaired’ from Dimapur district.