Ahmedabad, March 5 (NationPress) On Thursday, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the fifth iteration of the herSTART initiative aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs, alongside the opening of a newly constructed research park at Gujarat University.

He emphasized the state's dedication to fulfilling the vision of women-led development as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During the ceremony, the Chief Minister also revealed the renaming of the university's convention center to Vidyagauri Nilkanth Sabhapuram, in tribute to Vidyagauri Nilkanth, who is celebrated as the first female graduate from Gujarat.

Addressing attendees in Ahmedabad, CM Patel stated that the government is focused on enhancing women's roles in innovation and entrepreneurship through programs like herSTART, managed by the Gujarat University Startup and Entrepreneurship Council.

“Gujarat remains steadfast in realizing the Prime Minister's vision for women-led development,” CM Patel remarked.

The herSTART initiative offers incubation, mentorship, and market access for women-led startups. The fifth iteration was unveiled at the university as part of a series of efforts termed a “development triveni” by the organizers.

CM Patel noted that the national startup ecosystem has experienced significant growth since the introduction of Startup India. “Inspired by the Prime Minister, Startup India has evolved into a revolution, creating opportunities for youth to achieve unprecedented success,” he stated.

According to the Chief Minister, the number of startups in India has surged from fewer than 500 a decade ago to nearly 200,000, with women making up a considerable portion of this growing community.

He further highlighted that India is now ranked among the top nations globally for funding allocated to women-led startups.

CM Patel underscored emerging sectors, asserting that technology should be seen not just as a career path but as a significant mission for nation-building. “Technology is not merely a profession but also a mission to build our nation,” he stressed.

Referring to recent advancements in the semiconductor industry, he pointed out the increasing opportunities for skilled individuals, including women.

He mentioned that a new semiconductor plant had recently opened in Sanand, indicating that both Sanand and Dholera are set to develop into semiconductor hubs, fostering high-tech job prospects.

“There are numerous prospects for women's involvement in the semiconductor sector. herSTART aims to assist women in areas like semiconductor startups, chip design, fabrication management, semiconductor packaging, and deep-tech innovation,” he added.

During the event, the Chief Minister also released a coffee table book showcasing the accomplishments of the fourth edition of herSTART and honored women-led startups linked to the initiative.