Basugaon resident Jonali Chakrabarty wins Tejaswini Ideathon 2024

Guwahati: Basugaon resident Jonali Chakrabarty emerged as the winner of the Tejaswini Ideathon 2024. The owner of Sanchayita Enterprise, her vermicompost venture has become the talk of the town.

“I have no words to express my delight,” said Jonali, who was trained by Krishi Vigyan Kendra in 2020. Her enterprise now produces 200 quintals of vermicompost every year. She initially invested Rs. 50,000 to start her business, and this month alone, she has spent as much as Rs. 2 lakh on her venture.

Assam is promoting organic farming as part of its agricultural development strategy, aiming to reduce chemical usage and promote sustainable farming methods. The government has implemented policies supporting organic farming, providing financial support, training, and certification assistance. 

The increasing demand for organic products, particularly vermicompost, creates a lucrative market for farmers. The state organizes organic markets and fairs, allowing farmers to directly sell their produce. NGOs and private sector collaborations also support organic farming by providing training, inputs, and marketing support. Companies and startups are also gaining involvement in the organic farming sector. 

Organic farming practices improve soil health, promote biodiversity, and ensure healthier produce. Assam is well-positioned to become a hub for organic farming and related industries, leveraging government support, market opportunities, and collaborations with NGOs and the private sector.

The second prize was awarded to Bhavna Choudhury of Kamrup Metro, while the third prize went to Jahnavi Baruah. Bhavna works in the IT and ITES sector, while Jahnavi is involved in agriculture, allied industries, and food processing.

“We are planning the valedictory programme of the contest this month,” said Dr. Sriparna Baruah, Advisor at NEHHDC, to Business North East. All participants who were selected for the second round will receive certificates recognizing their achievements as finalists. Around ten of the most outstanding ideas will be honored and felicitated for their exceptional quality and innovation. Special recognition will be given to approximately fifty shortlisted ideas for their commendable efforts and creative contributions.

The winners of the Tejaswini Ideathon were selected based on the uniqueness of their ideas, their ability to address problems, scalability, and societal impact.

Tejaswini Assam Ideathon 2024 is a business idea contest aimed at identifying women from Assam with entrepreneurial mindsets who can provide solutions to local problems. The initiative, started by the Women's Cell, Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Assam, and North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Limited, provides a platform for women aged 18-50 to pitch their ideas and gain recognition in a wider network.