Promoting New Entrepreneurship: ‘Swakiyam’ by Indira to Shape Thousands of Entrepreneurs – Dr. Tarita Shankar

Pimpri-Chinchwad | “We are committed to establishing a world-class incubation platform to unlock the potential of new entrepreneurs, transform innovative ideas into scalable businesses, and contribute to economic growth through sustainable ventures,” said Dr. Tarita Shankar, Chairperson and Chief Mentor of Indira Group of Institutes and Indira University.

The grand inauguration of Swakiyam – Center for Incubation and Innovation Foundation took place at Indira University on Monday (16th). Dr. Shankar made the above remarks during the event. Dignitaries present included Vice-Chancellor Dr. Anagha Joshi, Prof. Chetan Wakalkar, Baljeet Gujral, Shardul Gangal, Deepanjay Bhalerao, Shaun Mehendale, Sahil Mehendale, Manish Dalmia, and Dr. Anjali Kalkar.

Dr. Shankar further stated:
“By offering mentoring, training, infrastructure support, industry-based internships, startup courses, funding access, legal and compliance support, we are enabling enthusiastic entrepreneurs to fulfill their dreams.”

This is a dynamic startup ecosystem hub aimed at transforming innovative ideas into businesses and nurturing entrepreneurial talent. The center will provide infrastructure, mentorship, and resources to aspiring founders and entrepreneurs to convert their ideas into real, impactful ventures.

The initiative is inspired by Dr. Tarita Shankar and is being led by Baljeet Gujral, an alumnus of Harvard Business School, along with Dr. Deepanjay Bhalerao, Director and Startup Mentor of the Incubation Center, and the entire Swakiyam team.

Baljeet Gujral said,
“Startups are engines of innovation. Our center is designed to fuel that engine through industry connections, mentorship, and courage. This incubation center is not just a space but a springboard for bold ideas to become sustainable enterprises of tomorrow.”

What is Swakiyam?

“Swakiyam” originates from the Sanskrit word “Swakiya”, which means “one’s own” or “belonging to oneself.”
The name reflects the essence of ownership and self-driven innovation, where entrepreneurs are encouraged to own their ideas and revolutionize them into successful ventures.

About Indira University…

With a legacy of 31 years, Indira University houses five distinct colleges offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs.
These include:

• School of Business

• School of Commerce & Economics

• School of Information Technology

• School of Liberal Arts

• School of Pharmacy

The university offers comprehensive education, practical experience, and 100% placement support.
Its tagline “Up Your Game” emphasizes the mission to uplift student performance, enhance their skills, and help them achieve academic excellence and success in life.

Five-Stage Incubation Program

The program begins with Idea and Problem Identification, followed by Validation and Market Research.
The next stages include:

1. Business Model Development

2. Product Development

3. Go-to-Market and Fundraising Strategy

Finally, a Demo Day and Growth Planning stage allows entrepreneurs to present their ventures to potential investors and strategize for sustainable growth.
This structured approach ensures that startups are equipped with the tools and guidance needed for business success.

The program benefits include:

• Aspiring individuals

• Early-stage startups

• Enthusiastic innovators