Exciting Developments in Poland-India Collaboration with Invest India ! CEng. Shreekant Patil, former Sr.Consultant at NPC India, Startup India Mentor, and hon.advisor to the Poland-India Chamber of Cooperation, recently visited Invest India in Delhi. During this visit on March 9th, he engaged in productive discussions with senior officials from Invest India and leadership members of the Poland-India Chamber, including the President Ms. Krystyna Wróblewska , Vice President Mr. Vincent Peter Rahhul Pradhan. These discussions centred on fostering investment opportunities, with several companies from Poland and Europe expressing a keen interest in exploring projects in India. Invest India has committed to providing substantial support and guidance to facilitate these initiatives. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact of this collaboration on both Indian and European markets! #ShreekantPatil #InvestIndia #PolandIndiaChamber #Poland #Europe #India #SupplyChain #International #Relations #Affaris #Wroclaw #Warsaw #Investment #Leadership

CEng Shreekant Patil empowers 2000+ students on govt schemes, startup funding, IPR at Guru Gobind Singh Polytechnic's TechnoBrain 2K26. Nashik, March 14, 2026 – Guru Gobind Singh Polytechnic Nashik hosted the vibrant TechnoBrain 2K26 technical fest on March 14, 2026, starting at 10 AM, showcasing student innovation through competitions, project demos, gaming challenges, and technical quizzes. Chief Guest CEng. Shreekant Patil, Founder of MSMEHelp and NISIC, Startup India Mentor, former Sr. Consultant at NPC India, BIS Technical Committee Member, and Committee Chairman of NIMANashik and MACCIA, delivered an inspiring address to over 2000 participating students. In his session, Shreekant Patil empowered the young minds with practical guidance on government schemes, startup seed funding, company establishment, project patenting (IPR & Trademarks), shifting mindset from employee to employer, and kickstarting their entrepreneurship journey immediately. The event concluded with Shreekant Patil being felicitated by Principal Prof. Shrihari Upasani, alongside dignitaries including Principal Dr. Neelkanth G. Nikam, IIC Head Mrs. M.A. Borade, industry experts, faculty, and jury members. About TechnoBrain 2K26: TechnoBrain 2K26 celebrated technical excellence, urging students to transform textbook knowledge into real-world innovations at Guru Gobind Singh Polytechnic, Nashik. About Shreekant Patil: Renowned Startup India Mentor and MSME expert, Shreekant Patil bridges government schemes with entrepreneurial action, fostering Atmanirbhar Bharat through hands-on guidance.

PICC hosted the Poland–India Business & Women Leadership Forum 2026 on International Women's Day at Bharat Mandapam, featuring Ambassador Piotr Świtalski, MoUs with Womennovator & MSME Forum, and a women's leadership, moderated by advisor CEng. Shreekant Patil New Delhi, 8 March 2026 — The Poland–India Chamber of Cooperation (PICC) successfully hosted the Poland–India Business & Women Leadership Forum 2026 on the occasion of International Women's Day, bringing together distinguished diplomats, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and institutional leaders from India and Poland. Held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, one of India's most prestigious international conference venues, the high-level forum welcomed over 100 curated participants representing government, business, and institutional networks engaged in strengthening Poland–India cooperation. The event was hosted by Ms. Krystyna Wróblewska, President of the Poland–India Chamber of Cooperation, and Mr. Vincent Peter, Vice President of PICC, and marked the formal inauguration of the Chamber's activities in India, reinforcing its role as a strategic platform facilitating bilateral engagement across business, policy, education, and innovation sectors. The Chief Guest of the forum was H.E. Mr. Piotr Świtalski, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to India, who attended the event along with his wife Ms. Anna Świtalska. Among the distinguished attendees were Ms. Amrapali Kata, IAS, CEO & MD - Andhra Pradesh Tourism, Dr. Shefali Bhujbal, Trustee MET & Bhujbal Knowledge City, Mr. Ravi Nandan Sinha, Director Of Development & Board Member, Ms. Priya Pansare, Director, World Trade Centre Mumbai, CA Tripti Singhal Somani, Founder & CEO of Womennovator, and Ms. Kavita Adhikary, Head – Global Partnerships, MSME Business Forum India. The forum also welcomed members of the Polish business delegation visiting India, including Ms. Małgorzata Zawada, Global Director of Operations at DUOLIFE S.A., as well as entrepreneurs actively engaged in strengthening the India–Poland ecosystem, including Ms. Bogusia Dhingra and Ms. Dorota Cagiel. In his keynote address, Ambassador Świtalski highlighted the significant growth in Poland–India relations and the strong potential for expanding cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, and skilled mobility. Referring to recent improvements in visa processing, he noted that waiting times for work visas had already been reduced significantly during his tenure and expressed optimism for further improvements that will facilitate stronger business and talent exchanges between the two countries. The event also witnessed the signing of two strategic Memorandums of Understanding between PICC and Womennovator, and PICC and MSME Business Forum India, further strengthening institutional collaboration in entrepreneurship, innovation, and MSME engagement. A highlight of the forum was the Women's Leadership Panel Discussion, moderated by Ms. Bogusia Dhingra, featuring distinguished leaders including Ms. Krystyna Wróblewska, Ms. Priya Pansare, CA Tripti Singhal Somani, Ms. Małgorzata Zawada, Ms. Dorota Cagiel, and Ms. Kavita Adhikary. The discussion explored leadership challenges, mentorship gaps, and strategies to enable women entrepreneurs to scale globally. The event concluded with the India launch of the book “22 Lies I Believed” by Ms. Krystyna Wróblewska, followed by closing remarks delivered by Mr. Vincent Peter, Vice President of PICC. Shreekant Patil, PICC Advisor and Startup India Mentor, moderated the entire Poland-India Women's Day Conference 2026 at Bharat Mandapam. The successful forum marked a significant milestone in strengthening India–Poland economic and institutional collaboration, with the Poland–India Chamber of Cooperation continuing to position itself as a trusted bridge between the two countries, enabling partnerships across business, policy, education, and innovation ecosystems. Special thanks to the team that helped make the event possible: Shreekant Patil, Amit Thakkar, Rahul Pradhan, Milin Rajput, Prasad Ganavane, and Shubham Kankarej. Also thanks to Wroblewska Business Event, which co-managed the event successfully. Special thanks from the President, Ms. Krystyna Wróblewska, and Vice President, Mr. Vincent Peter, to all our esteemed guests, VIPs, dignitaries, delegates, partners, and members for attending the event and graciously joining us for this important milestone. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the event management team and all those who worked behind the scenes to make the Poland–India Business & Women Leadership Forum 2026 a great success. Your presence, support, and engagement made this occasion truly meaningful and memorable.

PICC's 2026 Forum fosters women leadership and strategic ties between Poland and India, with Shreekant Patil moderating the discussions. On the occasion of International Women's Day, the Poland–India Chamber of Cooperation (PICC) successfully hosted the Poland–India Business & Women Leadership Forum 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The forum brought together a distinguished gathering of diplomats, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and institutional leaders from both India and Poland to explore opportunities for fostering bilateral cooperation and promoting women's leadership in business. Shreekant Patil, Advisor to the Poland–India Chamber of Cooperation (PICC) and Startup India Mentor, moderated the entire forum, ensuring a smooth and engaging dialogue among the event's distinguished speakers and participants. The event provided a strategic platform to discuss entrepreneurship, innovation, MSME collaboration, and women's leadership across borders, strengthening the Poland–India bilateral ecosystem. The event was hosted by Ms. Krystyna Wróblewska, President of PICC, and Mr. Vincent Peter, Vice President of PICC. It marked the official launch of the Chamber's activities in India, underscoring its vital role as a bridge between the two nations, facilitating cross-sectoral collaboration in trade, policy, education, and innovation. H.E. Mr. Piotr Świtalski, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to India, graced the event as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, Ambassador Świtalski highlighted the growing importance of Poland-India relations, focusing on the potential for deeper cooperation in trade, investment, and skilled mobility. He also noted the improvements in visa processing, making it easier for professionals and businesses to collaborate across borders. The forum welcomed several prominent leaders, including Ms. Amrapali Kata, IAS, CEO & MD of Andhra Pradesh Tourism; Dr. Shefali Bhujbal, Trustee of MET & Bhujbal Knowledge City; Ms. Priya Pansare, Director at World Trade Centre Mumbai; and CA Tripti Singhal Somani, Founder & CEO of Womennovator. A major highlight was the signing of two strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between PICC and Womennovator, and PICC and the MSME Business Forum India. These agreements are aimed at advancing institutional collaboration in entrepreneurship, innovation, and MSME engagement between Poland and India. The event also featured an insightful Women's Leadership Panel Discussion, moderated by Ms. Bogusia Dhingra, and featuring Ms. Krystyna Wróblewska, Ms. Priya Pansare, CA Tripti Singhal Somani, Ms. Małgorzata Zawada (Global Director of Operations at DUOLIFE S.A.), Ms. Dorota Cagiel, and Ms. Kavita Adhikary. The panel explored the challenges women face in leadership, the mentorship gaps, and strategies to empower women entrepreneurs to scale globally. The forum concluded with the India launch of the book “22 Lies I Believed” by Ms. Krystyna Wróblewska, followed by closing remarks from Mr. Vincent Peter. The successful conclusion of the Poland–India Business & Women Leadership Forum 2026 marked a significant step in enhancing India–Poland relations and promoting the pivotal role of women leaders in driving global business and innovation. Shreekant Patil's role as moderator was pivotal in facilitating this landmark event, which continues to foster enduring collaborations between India and Poland. Special thanks go to the event's dedicated team including Amit Thakkar, Rahul Pradhan, Milin Rajput, Prasad Ganavane, Shubham Kankarej, and Wroblewska Business Event for their excellent management.— Shreekant Patil, Founder, Startup India Mentor, Advisor to PICC.

Building a Future-Ready Agri-Food Sector: Shreekant Patil's Leadership, MOFPI: PMKSY Irradiation Infrastructure, and Food Testing Lab with New Technology in Nashik. Centre Urges Nashik Industries To Leverage Food Processing Schemes Nashik, Maharashtra — December 23, 2025 — Under the leadership and meticulous planning of CEng. Shreekant Patil, a renowned Startup India Mentor, a landmark conference was convened to strengthen Nashik's and Maharashtra's agri-food processing ecosystem. The event, organized with the Nashik Industries and Manufacturers Association (NIMA) and Knowledge Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), aligned with central government programs to translate policy into local action, with a clear emphasis on implementing MOFPI schemes such as PM Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) to deliver scalable impact. The program focused on strengthening food processing infrastructure, establishing quality-assured food testing labs, and embracing modern technologies to uplift local businesses, ensuring that the agenda for PMKSY integration, irradiation infrastructure, and accreditation-driven testing would drive tangible outcomes for MSMEs and entrepreneurs across North Maharashtra.

CEng. Shreekant Patil, Founder of MSMEHelp & PARENTNashik and renowned Startup India Mentor, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Global Recognition Award for exceptional leadership across India's startup ecosystem, MSME sector, and international trade networks. From 15,000 global entrants, only 5.8% received recognition through rigorous evaluation. Shreekant Patil achieved perfect 5/5 world-class scores across all four leadership dimensions: vision/strategy implementation, inspiration/motivation, ethical decision-making, and fostering innovation/creativity. CEng. Shreekant Patil has been recognized with a Global Recognition Award 2026 for high-caliber leadership and mentoring work across India's startup ecosystem, MSME sector, and international trade networks. Shreekant Patil, a senior consultant with the National Productivity Council under India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, holds roles as a Startup India mentor, Bureau of Indian Standards technical committee member, BIS, LEAN and ZED certification consultant, and brand ambassador for Wallonia, Belgium. His work addresses critical gaps in capacity building, export readiness, energy efficiency, and women's empowerment throughout micro, small, and medium enterprises while forging partnerships with government bodies, educational institutions, and international organizations. The award evaluates candidates using the Rasch model, which creates a linear measurement scale allowing precise comparison throughout diverse areas of excellence. Shreekant Patil scored five out of five (world-class) in all four leadership dimensions assessed: vision and strategy implementation, ability to inspire and motivate others, ethical decision-making and integrity, and fostering innovation and creativity within his field. Scaling Ecosystems Through Strategic Mentorship Shreekant Patil has mentored more than 100 early-stage startups and MSMEs through flagship government initiatives including BHASKAR, MAARG, BIRAC, MeitY Startup Hub, and the United Nations Development Programme's Youth Co:Lab. His mentorship accelerates product-market fit, LEAN implementation, and export-readiness timelines for businesses that often lack access to formal advisory networks. Shreekant Patil built a tiered training ecosystem comprising practitioner, master trainer, and institutional facilitator tracks to ensure quality delivery and sustained knowledge transfer throughout regions. Recognition from Youth Co:Lab and the UNDP in 2024 underscored his impact on India's innovation dialogue and springboard programs. Shreekant Patil leads LEAN and ZED certification initiatives that reduce time-to-compliance and costs for MSMEs, enabling broader market entry and participation in formal government schemes. He guides businesses in adopting energy-efficiency practices and sustainable procurement frameworks to drive cost savings and competitiveness. Shreekant Patil coordinates with export promotion councils such as APEDA, EEPC, and SEPC to secure incentives, export leads, and trade finance arrangements through Euro Exim Bank, the African Development Bank, and the Asian Development Bank. His assistance in onboarding more than 100 companies onto government platforms including ONDC, MSMEMart, and the Indian Trade Portal has expanded digital marketing reach and international export opportunities. Mr. Alex Sterling, spokesperson for Global Recognition Awards, noted Patil's comprehensive approach: "Shreekant Patil exemplifies world-class leadership by bridging technical expertise, policy engagement, and inclusive mentorship to unlock sustainable growth for businesses that form the backbone of India's economy. His ability to scale ecosystems through practical frameworks and international partnerships sets a standard for impact-driven excellence." Shreekant Patil's various blogging platforms online portfolio shows ongoing seminars on export opportunities, government schemes, and BIS certification, reflecting his commitment to transparent knowledge sharing and continuous engagement with stakeholders. What This Means: His application was evaluated by impartial industry experts using the Rasch measurement model, which is a rigorous methodology that creates objective scoring regardless of category or field. Only the highest-performing applicants receive this recognition.

Shreekant Patil leads NIMA-YCMOU meet advocating startups, incubation centre & self-employment schemes for Nashik's village economy growth. CEng. Shreekant Patil, Startup India Mentor and Chairman of NIMA Startup Committee, led discussions at an Industry-Academia Collaboration meeting held on Dec. 3rd, 2025 at Yash International Meeting Hall, YCMOU Nashik at 11:30 AM, followed by lunch. Representing NIMA alongside team members, Shreekant Patil advocated establishing startups, an incubation centre, R&D lab, and entrepreneurship training at YCMOU to leverage available infrastructure and space for self-employment generation through state and central government schemes. Shreekant Patil commended Vice-Chancellor Hon. Sanjeev Sonawane for proactive initiatives like "Madhache Gaon" and agri-based projects driving rural employment. Committing full support, Patil pledged training on government subsidies, handholding for students, and guidance to empower Nashik district villages economically in alignment with Viksit Bharat vision, enabling youth to achieve self-reliance. NIMA President Mr. Ashish Nahar expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor. YCMOU representatives Dr. Patole, Dr. Rajput, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jogindersingh Bisen felicitated distinguished guests including Shreekant Patil. NIMA committee members Mr. Milind Rajput, Mr. Nana Deore, Mr. Govind Borse, other NIMA team members, and Laghu Udyog Bharati representatives attended, fostering strong industry-academia ties for innovation and sustainable growth. CEng. Shreekant Patil is a seasoned entrepreneur, industry expert, brand ambassador for Wallonia-Belgium with over 30 years in robotic resistance welding and industrial manufacturing, serving as Startup India Mentor, BIS Technical Committee Member, and international trade facilitator. He empowers MSMEs and startups through PARENT Nashik, fostering global partnerships, certifications, and sustainable growth between India and Poland, Europe.

Shreekant Patil strengthens Poland-India Chamber cooperation with MUK Nashik, promoting exports, startups, and technology. Nashik, India – December 3, 2025 – CEng. Shreekant Patil, Startup India Mentor, BIS India Technical Committee Member, MSME Consultant, and Founder of PARENT Nashik, served as Chief Guest at Maratha Udyojak Kaksh (MUK) Nashik event held at MVP's Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj Polytechnic College. CA Ulhas Borse, MUK Nashik District President, felicitated Shreekant Patil for his pivotal role in forging the MoU between Poland-India Chamber of Cooperation (PICC) and Maratha Udyojak Kaksha (MUK) Nashik on November 26th. The program commenced with traditional Jijau Vandana and Poojan to the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. CEng. Shreekant Patil highlighted lucrative opportunities for MUK members in Poland and Europe, including technology transfer, white-label jobs, partnerships, and exports. He emphasized study abroad programs, academic collaborations with Polish universities, and recent support from Government of India, State Government, District Export Committee, and DI Nashik boosting Nashik's exports over the last two months. As an Honorary MUK Member, Shreekant Patil committed ongoing assistance for startups, government subsidies, export incentives, and certifications like BIS, LEAN, ZED, and Chartered Engineer. CEng. Shreekant Patil is a seasoned entrepreneur, industry expert with over 30 years in robotic resistance welding and industrial manufacturing, serving as Startup India Mentor, BIS Technical Committee Member, and international trade facilitator. He empowers MSMEs and startups through PARENT Nashik, fostering global partnerships, certifications, and sustainable growth between India and Poland, Europe.

Shreekant Patil orchestrates MACCIA Nashik meet with Poland Chamber on Nov 27, boosting ODOP exports via tech, investment & sister city ties. Nashik, November 28, 2025 – CEng. Shreekant Patil, Startup Committee Chairman and a dynamic leader in Nashik's export ecosystem, spearheaded a pivotal meeting at Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (MACCIA) on November 27 at 11:30 AM. Under the MoU between MACCIA and Poland-India Chamber of Cooperation, the session focused on accelerating trade growth in North Maharashtra's industries, agriculture, and ODOP products like grapes, onions, and Paithani sarees. CEng. Shreekant Patil's visionary leadership and enthusiasm for Nashik's global exports shone through as he shared insights from his Poland visit, highlighting investment opportunities, tech transfer, supply chains, and B2B ties. Vice President Sanjay Sonawane emphasized Nashik's skilled workforce, infrastructure, and export potential in grapes, onions, bananas, and processed foods, positioning the region as ideal for foreign investment. Poland-India Chamber Vice President Vincent Peter described Poland as a secure, industry-friendly hub with access to 29 European markets, urging Indian entrepreneurs to seize opportunities amid high demand for trained manpower. The "Sister City" concept for Nashik with a Polish city was proposed to boost tourism, industry, and trade. Chaired by President Ravindra Majgavkar, the event featured welcomes by Rajaram Sangle and thanks by Sachin Shah, alongside Ramesh Pawar, Datta Bhalerao, and Milind Rajput CEng. Shreekant Patil, a Chartered Engineer, export consultant, and founder of PARENTNashik (100% export-oriented to Europe), has consistently championed skill development, ZED certification, and international networking. His enthusiasm has positioned Nashik as an emerging export hub.

Shreekant Patil hosts Poland-India Chamber leaders at NIMA Nashik, spotlighting EU export opportunities for Nashik's ODOP amid his dedicated leadership. Indo-Poland Chamber Emphasise Stronger Industrial Ties Shreekant Patil Nashik, November 28, 2025 — In a landmark initiative to boost Nashik's exports under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme, CEng. Shreekant Patil, a key leader and team member of the Nashik District Export Committee under DI Nashik, orchestrated high-level meetings on November 26–27. Demonstrating his visionary leadership and unwavering enthusiasm for elevating Nashik's global trade footprint, Patil facilitated the introduction of Poland-India Chamber of Cooperation (PICC) President, Krystyna Wróblewska and Vice President, Mr. Vincent Peter from Poland, to NIMA Nashik (Nashik Industries & Manufacturers Association). The sessions highlighted immense opportunities in Poland and the EU for technology transfer, investments, supply chains, education, B2B collaborations, and delegate exchanges. Patil's proactive role underscored his commitment to Nashik's ODOP products like grapes and Paithani sarees, fostering strategic partnerships that promise exponential export growth. NIMA Nashik, with over 4,000 members, applauded Shreekant Patil's efforts in bridging Indian industries with European markets. NIMA President Aashish Nahar expressed optimism that the upcoming Global Business Meet in Davos, with participation from NIMA and the Indo-Polish Chamber, will unlock new avenues for partnerships, investments, and trade expansion in industrial and economic sectors. Mr. Milind Rajput, SC member of NIMA and dedicated team member, played a crucial role in organizing the successful back-to-back meetings in Nashik, especially at NIMA. The event was graced by NIMA President Mr. Ashish Nahar, Manish Rawal, Rajendra Ahire, Kailash Patil, Rajendra Vadnere, and other office bearers, reflecting strong institutional support. Shreekant Patil, a Chartered Engineer, export consultant, and founder of PARENTNashik (100% export-oriented to Europe), has consistently championed skill development, ZED certification, and international networking. His enthusiasm has positioned Nashik as an emerging export hub. Press Release - https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/nashik-nima-indo-poland-chamber-emphasise-stronger-industrial-ties-focus-on-davos-meet?%20Shreekant%20Patil/ https://epaper.freepressjournal.in/c/78627792?shreekant%20Patil/

Shreekant Patil named Thinkers360 Top Voice APAC 2025 for outstanding impact in MSME, entrepreneurship, and global innovation leadership. Thinkers360, the leading global platform for thought leadership and influencer recognition, has announced its prestigious Top Voices APAC 2025 list, featuring Shreekant Patil among the region's most influential contributors. This coveted accolade recognizes Patil's exceptional impact on the APAC business landscape and his consistent efforts in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and international relations at both regional and global levels. Shreekant Patil, celebrated for his steering MSME Help and his dynamic role as a mentor and advisor, has long championed startups, business transformation, and digital innovation across APAC. His personally-authored content, thought leadership, and active engagement within the Thinkers360 community distinguish him as a driving force for positive change and sustainable growth. Patil's commitment to sharing actionable insights and strategies has empowered entrepreneurs, professionals, and organizations to navigate complex business environments and build resilient, forward-looking enterprises. Shreekant Patil has established a multifaceted presence on the international stage, serving as a Council Member at the International Trade Council while also being recognized as an External Expert with the European Commission and International Advisor at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). As a Registered Mentor with the Early Warning Europe Mentor Academy, and a Member of the Europeana Network Association (ENA), he contributes to key initiatives in innovation, technology, and trade across the continent. Patil is also a Mentor for the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), Trade Finance Specialist at Euro Exim Bank, and a member of the European DIGITAL SME Alliance, providing crucial expertise in MSME development and sustainable finance. Additionally, he functions as an Advisor for sustainable finance with the STAGE project—Sustainable Transition to the Agile and Green Enterprise—reflecting his commitment to advancing sustainability in business at both European and global levels, Trade finance advisor at ADB – Asian development bank, Philippines. At the global level, Shreekant Patil's influence extends beyond APAC, with recognized contributions to international partnerships, cross-border entrepreneurship, and knowledge leadership. Patil's profile on Thinkers360 showcases a rich portfolio of articles, media interviews, podcasts, and speaking events, reflecting his dedication to continuous learning and value creation for audiences worldwide.

Shreekant Patil, an accomplished entrepreneur and Startup India mentor, has been appointed as a committee member for Bharat at the International Digital Economies Association (iDEA). In this influential role, Patil will leverage his expertise in digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and startup mentorship to contribute to iDEA's mission of fostering digital-first economies globally. Nashik, Maharashtra, India — Shreekant Patil, a renowned entrepreneur and mentor, has been appointed as a committee member for Bharat at the International Digital Economies Association (iDEA). In this new role, Patil will contribute his expertise in entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and startup mentorship to help shape the digital-first entrepreneurial ecosystem in India. Today Founding Board Member Mr Jochen Bidermann, Mr Jatinder Handoo, Mr Chia Hock Lai, Mr. Paul Li, Chairman -Mr. Segun Aina, Ms. Christina Amor Maclang, Secretary General & Dr. Alexander Tivot, Dy Secretary General at iDEA announced selection of Shreekant Patil. Shreekant Patil, Chartered Engineer, the founder of PARENTNashik, also serves as a senior consultant at NPC India and has been a mentor at Startup India. His global experience spans working with institutions such as International Trade Council member for innovation & technology, Euro Exim Bank, European Commission, and IIT Bombay. As a committee member, he will focus on fostering innovation-led transformation, supporting emerging ventures, and promoting inclusive ecosystems for startups in Bharat and beyond. Shreekant Patil's appointment to iDEA underscores his commitment to driving digital economies and empowering entrepreneurs across India and the world. Shreekant Patil's deep involvement in iDEA is expected to bring invaluable support to startups both within India and globally. Drawing from his extensive experience, Patil will assist entrepreneurs in developing strategic frameworks that focus on sustainable business growth and digital transformation. He will work closely with emerging startups to offer mentorship on scaling their operations, refining business models, and leveraging global networks for expansion. With his broad connections across the U.S., Middle East, and Europe, Shreekant Patil will play a pivotal role in facilitating partnerships and providing market insights to help startups penetrate new international markets. Additionally, Shreekant Patil will collaborate with iDEA's digital-first initiatives to create impactful policy frameworks that foster innovation and entrepreneurship in emerging economies. By advising on new trends and disruptive technologies, he will help new entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of the digital landscape and achieve long-term success. His strategic vision and commitment to inclusive ecosystems will empower a diverse range of startups in India and globally.

Shreekant Patil has taken a prominent role in shaping Nashik's smart city development, serving as a Resource Person for the Bridging Smart City Nashik initiative. This initiative is a strategic collaborative effort between the Smart Cities Council, NIMA Nashik, and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (MACCIA), with the goal of driving future-ready projects that will bolster Nashik's urban growth and preparations for the upcoming Kumbh Mela 2027. On June 20, 2025, Shreekant Patil organized and hosted a significant meeting in Mumbai with key representatives from NIMA Nashik and MACCIA Mumbai. Serving as Chair of both committees, Shreekant welcomed distinguished guests including Mr. Corey Gray, Chair and President of the the world's largest global network of smart city solution providers Smart Cities Council; Mr. Vincent Peter, President of Ready For Future Poland; and Mr. Rahul Pradhan. The discussions focused on fostering bilateral trade, technology transfer, and strategic partnerships aimed at supporting Nashik's smart city initiatives and ensuring the success of the Nashik Kumbh Mela. Smart Cities Council (SCC) has successfully supported over 300+ cities globally, providing cutting-edge solutions across domains including urban mobility, water/waste management, energy systems, public safety, emergency response, and digital citizen services. SCC's members and strategic partners have contributed to high-impact events such as the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca (2+ million pilgrims annually) and Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan (expected 28+ million visitors), delivering integrated smart-event infrastructure and planning capabilities. Furthermore, the conversation highlighted the importance of developing areas step-by-step through three primary models of area-based development: • Retrofitting: Upgrading existing urban areas with smart solutions. • Redevelopment: Rebuilding and revitalizing older neighborhoods. • Greenfield: Developing new urban areas from the ground up with integrated smart technologies. The meeting was held at Trident Hotel Fort, Mumbai, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. During the session, the eminent Nashik leaders explored avenues to engage Nashik government officials and introduce the role of the Smart Cities Council in urban development strategies. Emphasis was placed on smart city solutions—such as pollution control, enhanced public transportation, and improved emergency response systems—that can significantly improve residents' quality of life. Recognizing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization—including housing affordability, social inequality, and environmental sustainability Shreekant Patil highlighted the opportunity for Nashik, along with Maharashtra's MSMEs and SMEs, to collaborate with international technology firms. Such partnerships are envisioned to foster innovation, sustainable growth, and inclusive development not only within Nashik but across Maharashtra and India. Additionally, Shreekant Patil has urged government officials, enthusiastic MSMEs, and SMEs across India to reach out and strategic collaborate with him for technology transfer and strategic partnerships with the Smart Cities Council. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to contact Shreekant Patil to explore opportunities for innovation and urban transformation. Through these initiatives, Shreekant Patil is committed to helping Nashik become a leading model of a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive smart city.

I was sitting in the cell-like room of my dormitory while everyone was celebrating the end of the induction week at my University. Since the event was happening just outside the yard of the dorm, I could hear the voices of happy and energetic students who had participated passionately in all the activities during that week. I was blaming and questioning my mind and soul for not going outside, getting involved, and enjoying student life instead of reading boring Computer Science books. I asked myself why I could not become the person who exposes myself to people, is extroverted, and enjoys the life she is experiencing. Yes, I was the person who buried myself in my world, only studying, desiring good grades, and aiming to become a professional. But seeing the outside world and my coursemates being very communicative, managing both study and extracurriculars, made me wonder if I was not using my full potential. Deep down, I knew that the solution was going outside, meeting my new coursemates, and forming friendships by exchanging ideas on how to start our academic journey. The difference between them and me was my frustration at that very moment. A stream of questions ran through my mind, and with some courage, I barely pushed myself after that incident. I began visiting small events and participating in national holidays held at different places, but I was still afraid to approach and be sociable in front of people. After the first midterms, I witnessed many students struggling to get good grades and master some subjects. Since I am good at math, I decided to mentor my peers. That is when my A+Club came to life. I started talking with my peers who were good at other subjects and invited them to share their knowledge with those struggling. I organized the days to teach each class, made announcement posts, reserved rooms after classes, and created sample question papers, managing my personal life simultaneously. Almost all students visited A+Club's mock exams, as my prepared questions closely resembled those of the professors. Most failing students in midterms succeeded in finals due to their hard work and the unconditional help from peers through A+Club's learning space. I have developed adaptability, problem-solving, and courage, realizing my full potential and correctly using it for the community around me. This realization led me to be a leader in two student clubs and an ambassador in three social organizations. Because I embody effective altruism. I am always ready to serve my community, helping each individual thrive by being a role model and a leader. Leadership and impact do not require a specific position or company; they start with beliefs and actions. When I see a societal problem, I do not just observe; I search for viable solutions, utilize my collective experience, learn new things, and put them into practice.