Deputy CM Chowna Mein inaugurated a state-of-the-art DIY Lab at APIIP Itanagar and attended a startup investment pitching session, reaffirming Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and startup growth.

Deputy CM Chowna Mein Inaugurates Advanced DIY Lab at APIIP Itanagar, Strengthens Startup Ecosystem

Introduction

Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein inaugurated the state-of-the-art Do It Yourself (DIY) Lab at the Arunachal Pradesh Innovation and Investment Park (APIIP) in Itanagar on Friday. He also attended a startup investment pitching session organised by APIIP, highlighting the state government’s continued focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment-driven growth.

The inauguration marks another significant step toward strengthening Arunachal Pradesh’s startup ecosystem by providing entrepreneurs with modern infrastructure and improved incubation support.

State-of-the-Art DIY Lab for Product Innovation

The newly established DIY Lab is equipped with advanced prototyping facilities, including 3D printers, electronic tools, food quality testing equipment, and a dedicated branding zone. The facility has been designed to help startups experiment with ideas, develop prototypes, refine products, and improve market readiness before large-scale manufacturing.

The lab aims to provide innovators and entrepreneurs with access to modern technology that can accelerate product development and commercial success.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Entrepreneurship

Addressing investors, startup founders, entrepreneurs, and government officials, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein highlighted the transformation of Arunachal Pradesh over the years and emphasized that the younger generation is progressing with confidence due to improved opportunities, infrastructure, and supportive government initiatives.

He reiterated APIIP’s vision of creating “job givers instead of job seekers” and expressed pride over Arunachal Pradesh being recognised as the Best Performer State in the National Startup Ranking 2025, an award conferred in January 2026.

The Deputy Chief Minister also congratulated APIIP Chief Executive Officer Tabe Haidar and his team for their contribution toward building a strong startup ecosystem in the state.

Focus on Ease of Doing Business and Startup Growth

Chowna Mein reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the startup ecosystem and positioning Arunachal Pradesh as a preferred destination for innovation and investment.

He appreciated the progress made under the Ease of Doing Business Single Window Clearance System and stressed the importance of integrating all government departments into the platform to simplify services for entrepreneurs and investors.

Recognizing the rapid growth of startup activities, he announced that a dedicated new APIIP building would be taken up in the next financial year to accommodate the increasing number of startups and incubation programmes. He also assured that the proposal for establishing a state-sponsored venture fund would be examined positively.

Startup Investment Pitching Session Attracts Investors

APIIP CEO Tabe Haidar described the DIY Lab as a creative innovation hub that would empower students, startup founders, and young entrepreneurs to transform ideas into commercially viable products.

The investment pitching session witnessed participation from leading investors and venture capital organisations, including NEDFi Venture Capital Limited, IIM Ahmedabad Ventures, Alpha Venture, Spotlight SP AIF, Anantan Ecosystem, and AlphaTUB.

A total of 13 startups incubated under APIIP presented their business ideas before investors, followed by an exclusive networking session aimed at fostering long-term partnerships, mentorship opportunities, and investment collaborations.

Why This Initiative Matters

The inauguration of the DIY Lab and the startup investment session demonstrate Arunachal Pradesh’s growing emphasis on innovation-led economic development. Access to advanced prototyping facilities and investor networks can help startups improve product quality, attract funding, and scale their businesses more effectively.

The initiative also aligns with the state’s broader objective of creating employment opportunities through entrepreneurship and supporting local innovators with world-class incubation facilities.

Conclusion

The inauguration of the DIY Lab at APIIP Itanagar by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein represents a major boost for Arunachal Pradesh’s innovation ecosystem. With advanced infrastructure, stronger incubation support, and increased investor engagement, the state continues to create an enabling environment for startups and entrepreneurs, reinforcing its vision of becoming a leading hub for innovation and investment in the Northeast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What was inaugurated by Deputy CM Chowna Mein?

The Deputy Chief Minister inaugurated the state-of-the-art DIY Lab at APIIP in Itanagar.

2. What facilities are available in the DIY Lab?

The lab includes 3D printers, electronic tools, food quality testing equipment, and a branding zone for product prototyping and development.

3. What was the purpose of the startup pitching session?

The session provided APIIP-incubated startups with an opportunity to present their business ideas before investors and venture capital representatives.

4. How many startups participated in the pitching session?

A total of 13 startups incubated under APIIP showcased their business ideas.

5. What is the government’s vision for APIIP?

The government aims to strengthen entrepreneurship, encourage innovation, and create job creators through incubation support and investment opportunities.

Key Takeaways

• Deputy CM Chowna Mein inaugurated the advanced DIY Lab at APIIP Itanagar.
• The lab features modern prototyping facilities including 3D printers and testing equipment.
• APIIP hosted a startup investment pitching session with leading investors and venture capital firms.
• Thirteen incubated startups presented their business ideas before investors.
• The initiative strengthens Arunachal Pradesh’s vision of promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment-led growth.