Experts discuss entrepreneurship, technology development on first day of JNTUA Innovators Conclave

The two-day Innovators Conclave 2026, organised with the objective of promoting innovation, technological advancement, entrepreneurship and industry–academia collaboration, was inaugurated at the Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University in Anantapur (JNTUA) on Saturday. The conclave witnessed the participation of over 3,000 students, representatives from more than 300 startups, and over 80 industry leaders.Organised by Vistara Vidyaanidhi Trust, the conclave brought students, entrepreneurs, technology professionals, academicians and innovators together on a common platform to encourage knowledge exchange, foster collaboration and create opportunities for emerging talent.The inaugural ceremony was attended by JNTUA Vice-Chancellor H. Sudarsana Rao, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Vice-Chancellor N.V.R. Jyotikumar, and others. The presence of eminent leaders from academia and industry added significance to the occasion and reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing innovation, entrepreneurship and technological development.On the occasion, the organisers expressed their gratitude to the JNTUA management and Vice-Chancellor H. Sudarsana Rao for extending support and offering the university as the venue for the major innovation-focused gathering.The first day featured leadership dialogues on key themes, including industry-scale innovation, institution building, strategic technologies, national security and India’s technological self-reliance.The discussions offered valuable perspectives on building sustainable innovation ecosystems, strengthening institutional capabilities and preparing young professionals to address emerging technological challenges, according to a press release. Industry leaders and academic experts shared their experiences and insights with participants, encouraging a forward-looking approach to entrepreneurship and technology development.The student hackathon also commenced as part of the conclave, encouraging participants to develop technology-driven solutions to real-world challenges. The initiative focuses on creativity, teamwork, problem-solving and the practical application of technical knowledge.The second day of the conclave on Sunday will feature leadership dialogues on innovation as a tool of nation-building, startup incubation and funding, and the relationship between technology, law and governance. A dedicated workshop on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the future of technology is also scheduled as part of the programme. Published - October 24, 2026 08:21 pm IST