A Career Counselling Programme on “Start-Up Ecosystem in Odisha” was held on 5th December 2025. The programme was jointly organised by The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI), Bhubaneswar Chapter in collaboration with the Department of Commerce, School of Tribal Resource Management, Centre for Indigenous Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS-DU).
The invited speaker for the session was CMA CA Avinash Kotrni, Chairman, CC & SFC, ICMAI–Bhubaneswar Chapter. The session commenced with a Welcome Address and introduction of the resource person by Dr. Snigdharani Panda, Chairperson, Council of Deans and Director, IQAC, KISS-DU, followed by the felicitation of the guest. During the session, CMA CA Avinash Kotrni delivered an insightful address highlighting the evolving start-up ecosystem in Odisha and the various government policies, incubation platforms, funding opportunities, and support systems fostering entrepreneurial growth in the region. He emphasized the rising entrepreneurial spirit among youth and the importance of skill development, innovation, and financial literacy in creating scalable ventures. He also discussed the role of professional bodies like ICMAI in empowering students to align their career paths with emerging industry and start-up requirements. Students gained practical understanding about the challenges and opportunities in entrepreneurship, regulatory frameworks, and pathways to initiate start-up ideas.
The event attracted participation from undergraduate and postgraduate students of Commerce and related disciplines along with faculty members, who actively engaged during the interactive Question-and-Answer session at the end. The platform allowed students to clarify their doubts and seek guidance regarding career prospects and entrepreneurial entry points. The programme concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks proposed by Dr. Ch. Sudipta Kishore Nanda, Assistant Professor, Commerce, STRM, KISS-DU. Overall, the session was highly informative and motivating, providing valuable exposure to the entrepreneurial landscape in Odisha and encouraging students to explore innovative career pathways.
