Rajasthan scripting new chapter in technological progress, says CM Sharma
On Friday, at the Innovation Day – Startup Conclave hosted by the Rajasthan International Centre, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma reminded everyone that curiosity fuels progress, especially in our fast‑moving world where innovation drives both economic growth and societal advancement. He highlighted that the future of the state hinges on its young people, noting with pride the notable achievements Rajasthan’s youth are making in technology. Inviting more young minds to step into the arena of ingenuity, he assured them of the state’s full support. Together, he declared, Rajasthan will rise to become a global benchmark in technology and innovation.
During his address, CM Sharma underscored that this day celebrates the state’s creative spirit, scientific mindset, and inventive potential. The event showcased Rajasthan’s journey from idea generation to digital technology adoption, driven by the government’s IT initiatives, digital‑governance reforms, and a steadfast commitment to fostering innovation across all districts. He reported that over 7,200 startups have been registered through iStart Rajasthan, attracting more than Rs 1,000 crore in investment and creating more than 42,500 jobs—an outcome that will spur new industries and broaden employment opportunities.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the increasing presence of women in the startup ecosystem. He quoted, “Of the startups registered on iStart, more than 2,600 are led by women, while 288 are run by young students. The number of students enrolled on iStart has now crossed 1.16 lakh.” He added that successful ventures will nurture creativity and help Rajasthani youth become international leaders in high‑growth sectors.
In the budget for 2025–26, the state government has set aside Rs 15 crore for Rajasthan Digifest, which will be staged in Jaipur in January 2026 in partnership with the TiE Global Summit. This platform will open limitless possibilities for young people in technology, entrepreneurship, and global collaboration. CM Sharma said that Innovation Day has laid a solid groundwork for the forthcoming Digifest 2026, which he anticipates will evolve into one of India’s premier innovation forums, with over 10,000 participants, 500+ investors, 300 exhibitors, 200 speakers, 100 sessions, and 100 startup pitches. He added, “The summit will offer startups and students exposure to global digital trends, guidance from top global mentors, and opportunities to connect with leading industrialists and investors.”
The state has rolled out multiple policies and programmes to nurture startups, establish incubation centres, and sharpen skills. The Atal Innovation Studio and Accelerator will open new avenues in emerging technologies, he explained. “Under the AVGC-XR policy (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics and Extended Reality), the state government has opened new pathways for youth in animation, visual effects, gaming, and extended reality.” The Learn, Earn, and Progress (LEAP) programme is set to strengthen the capabilities of founders and young innovators. CM Sharma noted that three advanced skilling centres are being set up to train youth in cutting‑edge technologies, and under the State Skill Policy, the state aims to train 150,000 youths in two years to boost employability.
He pointed to initiatives such as the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit, noting that last year, MoUs worth more than Rs 35 lakh crore were signed, and projects amounting to Rs 8 lakh crore are now underway—efforts that solidify Rajasthan’s standing as a rapidly emerging investment hub. The government also pursues policy‑driven measures to increase job creation, targeting four lakh government positions over the next five years. To date, 92,000 youths have secured government roles, and nearly 20,000 more are slated to receive opportunities this month. Additionally, the state has facilitated employment for more than 250,000 youths in the private sector.
CM Sharma announced a new youth policy aimed at empowering and developing the next generation. He described Rajasthan as a powerhouse of innovation, asserting that the state is on track to become a $350 billion economy by 2030, with unprecedented steps being taken to realize this vision. The state boasts vast potential in sectors such as renewable energy, energy storage, waste‑to‑energy, tourism, mining, automobiles, and textiles. To attract investment across these domains, the government has introduced over two dozen new policies. With these bold strides, Rajasthan is poised to carve out a leading role in tomorrow’s economy.
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