23rd Veeranna Aivalli Memorial Debate – 2024 (December 24, 2024)

The 23rd Veeranna Aivalli Running Team Trophy was awarded to the Indira Gandhi Government Dental College, Jammu, with Bhedika Billowria and Aastha Sharma emerging as winners. Organized by the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) J&K Regional Branch Page 2 of 2 in collaboration with J&K Police and University of Jammu's Department of Students Welfare, the event featured 27 teams from various institutions, debating the topic "The present Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem is in sync with creating jobs and opportunities for a developed and Atmanirbhar Bharat." In the individual category, Shivani from GDC Bishnah claimed the first prize, while Irtiqa Tariq and Harpreet Kaur took the second and third prizes, respectively. The event celebrated the legacy of late Veeranna Aivalli, IPS, with insights from various distinguished speakers, including Chief Guest Anand Jain, Prof. Anju Bhasin, and Patron Dr. Ashok Bhan, who highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship, policy reforms, and honoring the sacrifices of security forces. During the debate, participants discussed the merits and challenges of India's entrepreneurial ecosystem, with supporters praising government programs like "Make in India" and critics pointing out gaps, particularly in rural areas. Sh. B.R. Sharma, Chairman of IIPA J&K RB, emphasized policy reforms to sustain innovation, while Dr. Ashok Bhan urged the audience to honor the sacrifices of security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Prof. Anju Bhasin lauded the growing culture of entrepreneurship within Indian universities, and Girish Aivalli shared personal reflections on his father's legacy. The event was coordinated by the IIPA team, with adjudicators including Prof. Indu Kilam, Dr. Ashok Gupta, and Prof. Komal Nagar.