Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning from armed forces to civilian life, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad, recently conducted a 12-week intensive training programme uniquely tailored for Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and other ranks (ORs) from the Indian Armed Forces. The course provided comprehensive training in business ideation, planning, financial management, marketing, leadership, and practical business execution, empowering participants with the knowledge and tools needed to launch and manage their own ventures successfully.
This programme, titled “Entrepreneurial Training of Defence Personnel,” was held at EDII campus and catered to 31 Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel.
The training programme was conducted in two phases, combining theoretical learning with practical exposure. During the first phase, participants attended interactive lectures and workshops facilitated by leading experts in entrepreneurship and EDII’s faculty. The focus was on building a strong foundation in entrepreneurship, covering 120 sessions that covered key aspects necessary of establishing and running a business.
In the second phase, participants were engaged in project-based practical learning, which included market research and on-field exposure to real business environments. This hands-on approach allowed the defence personnel to translate their acquired knowledge into actionable business strategies, ensuring they were well-prepared for the challenges of entrepreneurship.
For hands-on training, participants also visited prominent industrial sites, including Siddhachakra Weaving Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, and the iconic Statue of Unity. They observed diverse business operations and factors involved in achieving business growth.
Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII said, “Entrepreneurial skills can ease the process of transitioning from armed forces into civilian life. This programme was especially designed with the motive of helping armed force personnel leverage on their unique personality attributes, acquire entrepreneurial skills and competencies and float their own businesses. I am happy we could train, counsel and handhold them appropriately.”
The Valediction Ceremony of the programme was attended by eminent guests Brig. N V Nath, Group Commander, NCC Group, Ahmedabad and Lt Col Rakesh Kumar, Indian Army. The distinguished guests expressed happiness over the skill and knowledge upgradation of their personnel. They highlighted events from their own life to depict how every chapter of life presents opportunities and we have to act at the right time to make the most of these. They encouraged the participants to move ahead on the path of venture establishment with confidence as this specialised programme marks another milestone in EDII’s mission to foster entrepreneurship and create opportunities across sectors and sections of people.
