NEW DELHI: In a significant move to bolster the Indian startup ecosystem, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) officially inaugurated the Entrepreneurship Skill Development Programme (ESDP) scheme on February 9, 2026. Launched at the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE), the initiative is a collaboration with the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India.
The program was inaugurated by Prof. Mazhar Asif, Vice Chancellor of JMI, alongside Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar. The scheme is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industrial application, transforming students from job seekers into “job creators.”
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Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
The ESDP scheme aims to foster inclusive growth by targeting a diverse demographic, including youth, women, SC/ST communities, differently-abled individuals, and ex-servicemen. By aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, JMI seeks to provide the tools necessary for sustainable enterprise creation.
“Entrepreneurship education is vital in fostering innovation and inclusive growth,” stated Prof. Mazhar Asif during his keynote address. “Jamia Millia Islamia remains committed to strengthening the MSME ecosystem and driving the vision of a self-reliant India.”
Comprehensive Training Modules
The collaboration will roll out a series of specialized programs managed by the CIE. These are categorized into three primary pillars:
| Category | Focus Areas |
| Entrepreneurship Awareness (EAP) | Fundamentals of business, Digital Economy, Green/Sustainable Business, and Startup India schemes. |
| Skill Development (ESDP) | Hands-on training in Bakery Entrepreneurship, Computer Hardware, Networking, and Digital Marketing. |
| Management Development (MDP) | Advanced leadership, Financial Management, and Branding for MSMEs. |
Strengthening the Startup Ecosystem
Prof. Simi Malhotra, Professor In-Charge of CIE, and Prof. Rihan Khan Suri, Director of CIE, emphasized that the center will provide more than just classroom training. Participants will gain access to mentorship, incubation support, and practical exposure to government financial schemes.
Prof. Mohammad Sharif, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering & Technology, further highlighted the importance of “innovation-led, technology-driven enterprises,” urging students to integrate technical expertise with business acumen.
This initiative reaffirms Jamia Millia Islamia’s position as a hub for innovation in New Delhi, ensuring that aspiring entrepreneurs are equipped to lead in an increasingly digital and green global economy.
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