Amaravathi, 30th August 2024, Dr. Pemmasani Chandrasekhar, Union Minister of State for Rural Development, inaugurated the curtain raiser for Ankura Yatra, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing rural entrepreneurship in India. The event took place at Vaddeswaram KL Deemed University in Tadepalli Mandal.
The International Startup Foundation (ISF), a Bengaluru-based not-for-profit virtual incubator, conceived this innovative project and will implement it across Andhra Pradesh in its first phase. The Yatra, scheduled from September 30th to October 3rd, 2024, is a pioneering bus journey that will traverse key rural locations across Andhra Pradesh, covering all 26 districts.
Designed to connect rural startup founders with investors and mentors, the Yatra provides a unique platform for collaboration and the development of innovative projects in rural areas.
Dr. Chandrasekhar highlighted the importance of such initiatives for rural development, stating, “The Ankura Yatra reflects our commitment to creating job opportunities in rural areas and reducing the need for youth to migrate to cities for employment.”
ISF Chairperson Dr. J.A. Chowdary described the Yatra as a pioneering effort to inspire and mentor rural entrepreneurs. “This initiative is about bringing global expertise to rural India. We have NRIs, CEOs, and investors who will travel with us to engage with local communities and support emerging startups,” he explained.
The bus journey will cover major locations including Vizag, Rajam, Kakinada, Rajahmundry, Amaravathi, Kuppam, Tirupati, Anantapur, Kadapa, and Kurnool. What sets Ankura Yatra apart is its industry-driven approach, with guidance from experienced professionals rather than traditional government programs. This ensures that startups receive practical insights and valuable connections.
On October 1st, participants will be addressed by Hon. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Konidela Pawan Kalyan and other officials in Amaravathi. The following day, Chief Minister Sri Nara Chandra Babu Naidu is expected to flag off the buses toward Sri City, where startup founders will interact with over 250 industry leaders and potential clients.
The Ankura Yatra aims to create new job opportunities in rural areas and address potential job losses in the IT sector due to automation. By involving international leaders and industry experts, ISF seeks to equip rural youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete in the business world.
Dr. Chowdary emphasized that the Ankura Yatra represents ISF’s dedication to rural empowerment and innovation. “This project is a significant step towards bridging the rural-urban divide and fostering economic growth in rural India,” he said.
The Yatra is expected to set a precedent for similar initiatives in other states, starting with Telangana in December. This initiative stands as a testament to ISF’s belief in the transformative power of collaboration and its commitment to building a more inclusive and dynamic economy in rural India.
