The highly anticipated EKASVA 2025 – Innovation Meet and Patent Expo was officially inaugurated today at the National Institute of Technology Calicut (NITC). Hosted by the Centre for Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Incubation (CIEI), the even brought together top industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs from across the nation to discuss groundbreaking advancements in technology and intellectual property.

The event was inaugurated by Mr. Ramanan Ramanathan, Chairman of the National Expert Advisory Council on Technology, Innovation, Incubation, and Entrepreneurship at the Department
of Science and Technology (DST), and Prof. Prasad Krishna, Director of NIT Calicut. The inauguration also saw the presence of Sri Prakash Shetty, Managing Director of Gasotech and NITC alumnus, along with Sri Nagaraja Parakasam, renowned author and a key leader in the Indian AngelNetwork.

In his inaugural speech, Mr. Ramanan Ramanathan emphasised the critical role of young innovators in driving technological change and societal progress. He urged attendees to push the limits of creativity and come up with innovative solutions to address global challenges. "The future of technology lies in the hands of the youth, and their ideas can lead to meaningful transformations in the world," said Ramanathan.

Prof. Prasad Krishna, Director of NIT Calicut and Chief Patron of EKASVA 2025, followed with a
presidential address that highlighted the importance of startups in shaping the future of India's
economy. He called on the younger generation to shift from being job seekers to job creators. “Startups are not just businesses; they are the foundation of our future economy. Young innovators
have the potential to redefine industries,” he said.

Sri Prakash Shetty, Managing Director of Gasotech, also spoke as the Guest of Honour, stressing
the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial mindset. He underscored that innovation is essential
for overcoming global challenges, adding that an entrepreneurial approach could pave the way for
sustainable solutions.

The inaugural session concluded with heartfelt felicitations presented by Mr. Nagaraja Prakasham,
renowned author and angel investor, and Dr. Sandhya Rani, Dean (R&C) at NITC. Their words of
encouragement were followed by a vote of thanks from Dr. T. J. Sarvothama Jothi, President of the
Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC) at NITC.

EKASVA 2025, which focuses on the development of cutting-edge technologies in sectors such as
AI/ML, Smart Agriculture, Sustainable Technologies, and Smart Mobility, continues tomorrow with a series of discussions, showcases, and networking sessions. These will aim to foster collaboration between innovators and industry leaders, while promoting the importance of intellectual property rights and patenting.

The event will feature an Innovation Showcase, keynote sessions on commercialisation and patents, technology/patent transfer guidance, seed funding for startups, incubation opportunities through TBI and FAB Labs, mentorship programs, startup-investor pitch sessions, and awards recognising outstanding contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship.

With 302 registered participants, the event showcases 71 patents and 63 innovative projects by
various pioneers in the field. Additionally, 9 startups have registered to showcase their work,
reflecting the growing entrepreneurial spirit among the attendees.

EKASVA 2025 is set to be a landmark event in the Indian innovation landscape, offering a platform for startups to gain exposure, mentorship, and crucial funding. Supported by venture capitalists, government officials, and key stakeholders, the event is poised to make a significant contribution to India’s expanding innovation ecosystem and accelerate the country’s technological and entrepreneurial growth.