The ACIC RISE Association, CGC Landran, in collaboration with Startup Punjab (Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Punjab), successfully organized the ARISE Punjab 2026 Summit, a two-day event dedicated to promoting the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address critical challenges across high-impact sectors.
The summit served as a regional precursor to the India–AI Impact Summit 2026 and coincided with the celebration of National Startup Day. Held under the visionary guidance of officials from Startup Punjab, ARISE Punjab 2026 provided a vital platform for policy dialogue aimed at strengthening Punjab’s innovation ecosystem and streamlining financial support mechanisms for aspiring entrepreneurs.
A key highlight of the summit was the Innovation Challenge, which featured 40 teams pitching scalable business models and showcasing products addressing pressing regional issues. These solutions focused on areas such as paddy straw burning, manufacturing efficiency, sustainable farming, and enhancing the e-commerce visibility of ‘Punjab Made’ products.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Mr. Vijay Kumar Wakchaure, CEO, VIT Engineering Pvt. Ltd., Pune, along with Guests of Honour Lt. Col. Aman Singh, Sena Medal (Gallantry) and Mr. Tarun Malhotra, Founder & CEO, Cyber Splunk.
The dignitaries were warmly welcomed by Dr. Rajdeep Singh, Campus Director, CGC Landran; Prof. (Dr.) Neha Sharma, Dean Research (RISE); Dr. Amresh Kumar Panjla, CEO, ACIC RISE Association; along with faculty members and students.
Delivering an inspiring keynote address, Lt. Col. Aman Singh emphasized the strategic role of AI in defence and governance, highlighting that institutions like CGC Landran play a critical role in preparing young minds to design, build, and lead in an AI-driven future.
These themes were further explored during a high-level panel discussion titled, ‘AI Inclusivity for Nation Building: Transition towards Viksit Bharat @2047,’ where experts deliberated on policy evolution, cybersecurity and technology adoption across education, management and hospitality sectors.
The second day of the summit marked National Startup Day and the 10th anniversary of the Government of India’s Startup India initiative. The session was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Dapinder Kaur Bakshi, Joint Director, Punjab State Council for Science and Technology (PSCST).
Dr. Bakshi highlighted key initiatives such as the GRIP Scheme for grassroots innovators and the SHE Program for women entrepreneurs, underscoring the importance of research-driven innovation and commercialization of STEM-based solutions.
During the ‘Startup Manthan’ session on day two, Guest of Honour Dr. Divneet Kaur, Founder & CEO, Dermabay Skincare, spoke about how the quality of education in Punjab is nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurs. Ms. Bharti Sood, Senior Regional Director, PHDCCI, elaborated on how chambers of commerce can connect emerging founders with industry leaders and experienced mentors.
Dr. Rajdeep Singh, Campus Director, CGC Landran, expressed gratitude to the Startup Punjab Mission for its support in making the summit a resounding success. He also acknowledged the efforts of the RISE department at CGC Landran for creating a dynamic platform that brought together investors, policymakers, startups and industry leaders.
Emphasizing the summit’s focus on scaling impactful ideas, strengthening Responsible AI, and fostering inclusive innovation, he reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 and India’s emergence as a global innovation hub.
Through its continued focus on research, ideation, and entrepreneurship, CGC Landran has been empowering students to develop innovative solutions to societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to nation building. Its ACIC RISE Association, supported by NITI Aayog, Government of India, has incubated over 125 startups while enabling grassroots entrepreneurs through access to mentorship, networking, and funding opportunities.
Actively collaborating with the Startup Punjab Mission, CGC Landran continues to strengthen the state’s startup ecosystem across rural and urban communities. The success of its alumni-led startups in sectors such as drone technology, digital services, healthcare, agriculture, personal care, and waste management stands as a testament to the institution’s role in transforming young innovators into job creators.