I Create India, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship, marked its 25th anniversary with a Silver Jubilee event at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi. For the past 25 years, the organization has helped people, especially Indian Army veterans and underprivileged communities, start their own businesses and become self-reliant.
At the event, over 40 Indian Army veterans were recognized for successfully starting their businesses after receiving training and mentorship from I Create India. The organization has partnered with the Directorate of Indian Army Veterans (DIAV) through a formal agreement. This partnership has led to the establishment of Business Incubation Centres (BICs) at 13 Regimental Centres, with four more in progress.
Lieutenant General Ranjeet Singh, Director General of Discipline, Ceremonial, and Welfare of the Indian Army, was the Chief Guest. He praised the veterans for their dedication and emphasized how their military discipline and leadership have helped them succeed in business. He also highlighted their contributions to the economy and society.
The event was attended by representatives from sponsors such as HCL Foundation, Bajaj Finserv, Bajaj Allianz, The Hans Foundation, and IndusInd Bank. A documentary on I Create India’s impact was shown, and a special coffee table book was launched.
Since its inception, I Create India has trained around 14,500 Indian Army veterans in business skills. Many have started small businesses, including grocery stores, farms, travel agencies, gyms, medical stores, coaching centres, and restaurants. So far, 1,687 veterans have successfully established businesses, while nearly 3,000 are in the mentoring phase. Most of these entrepreneurs are between 35 and 40 years old.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Harsh Bhargava, Founder of I Create India, emphasized the organization's mission to create jobs through entrepreneurship. He said, "For 25 years, I Create has been helping people become job creators. Our Army veterans use their discipline to overcome challenges, our women entrepreneurs uplift communities, and our youth embrace self-reliance. As we celebrate this Silver Jubilee, we honor those shaping India’s future, one business at a time."
Through their entrepreneurial efforts, Indian Army veterans are playing a vital role in strengthening the economy and society. Their determination and leadership not only help them support their families but also contribute to making India more self-reliant and prosperous. (PR)