Rupnagar (Punjab): The Indian Institute of Technology Ropar on Saturday inaugurated E-Summit 2026, its annual entrepreneurship and innovation event, with a focus on fostering deep-tech startups and research-driven innovation.

The two-day summit, themed 'Pioneering The Impossible', is being organised by the institute's E-Cell in association with the Technology Business Incubator Foundation.

Speaking at the event, IIT Ropar Director Rajeev Ahuja said the institute has emerged as a hub of deep-tech entrepreneurship, with over 450 startups incubated so far. He urged students and researchers to pursue innovation-led growth instead of conventional career paths.

Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary at the Technology Development Board, highlighted funding opportunities available under the Centre's Research and Development and Innovation Fund for early-stage startups.

He said the board supports enterprises working on the development and commercialisation of indigenous technologies by providing financial assistance.

Officials said the summit aims to provide a platform for young innovators to showcase ideas, collaborate with industry experts and explore entrepreneurial opportunities.