India hosted the BIMSTEC Young Professionals Exchange Programme in Maharashtra from the 9th to the 15th of this month. The programme aimed to promote knowledge exchange, strengthen cooperation, and provide exposure to India’s rapidly growing innovation, start-up, knowledge, research, and technology ecosystems. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the programme brought together 30 young innovators, technology developers, entrepreneurs, and other professionals from BIMSTEC member countries.
During the programme, the participants met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who highlighted the state's vibrant knowledge, innovation, and technology ecosystem and its potential as a platform for international partnerships. The Ministry said the initiative provided valuable exposure to the participating young professionals, enabling them to understand India's development model and explore opportunities for collaboration and partnership.
The Exchange Program was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 6th BIMSTEC Summit as part of India's commitment to strengthening engagement among the young people of the Bay of Bengal region. The Ministry said the initiative would play an important role in strengthening regional cooperation, fostering innovation, and building lasting networks among emerging leaders across the BIMSTEC region.