DIPEX 2025 in Pune Showcases Innovation and Opportunity with Focused Defence and Entrepreneurship Sessions

The second day of DIPEX 2025, one of India’s most prominent platforms for innovation and entrepreneurship, witnessed an inspiring blend of technology, defence, and personal journeys that left a deep impact on thousands of young minds. Held at the sprawling COEP Technological University campus, this 34th edition of DIPEX was jointly organized by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, Srijan Trust, the Department of Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation (Government of Maharashtra), Savitribai Phule Pune University, and COEP Technological University.

With more than 19,500 visitors over the first two days, including enthusiastic school and college students from regions like Junnar, Ahilyanagar, Solapur, and Pimpri-Chinchwad, DIPEX 2025 is proving to be a vibrant hub of future-ready ideas and impactful conversations.

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Session One: Unlocking Career Paths in the Indian Defence Forces

The morning of April 4 began with a highly engaging session titled “Opportunities Available in the Indian Defence Forces”, aimed at enlightening students about careers in the defence sector. This session was led by eminent personalities like Shri Kashinath Deodhar, Shri Mahendra Pingle, and chaired by Bharat Geete.

Shri Deodhar, who formerly served in DRDO, offered an insider’s look at the country’s defence manufacturing capabilities, sharing real-life experiences from his time developing indigenous weapons systems. His stories painted a vivid picture of the critical role Indian innovation plays in strengthening national security.

Meanwhile, Mahendra Pingle of Tata and Bharat Geete, CEO of Toran, discussed the technology and products currently in use by the Indian Defence Forces. From surveillance tech to advanced materials, their insights provided students with a clear view of the dynamic defence ecosystem and the career opportunities it offers—not just in uniform, but in engineering, manufacturing, and innovation.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A segment where students actively engaged with the dignitaries, asking questions about defence careers, internships, and the future of indigenous defence technologies.

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Session Two: From DIPEX to DICCI – The Inspiring Journey of Milind Kamble

The post-lunch session brought a wave of motivation with an intimate conversation with Padma Shri Milind Kamble, the Founder-President of the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI). Interviewed by Prof. Amit Vaidya, Kamble revisited his humble beginnings and how he was once a participant at the first DIPEX held in Sangli in 1986.

Now a decorated entrepreneur and social reformer, Kamble credited his success in part to the spark ignited by DIPEX years ago. “Innovation is a very important factor for business growth and if it is not absorbed, we will not be able to move forward,” he shared, encouraging students to embrace change, take calculated risks, and build businesses that make a difference.

Kamble’s core message was clear and resonant: “The farmer who treats agriculture as a business will thrive. Likewise, entrepreneurship and technology are key to ending caste-based inequality and creating inclusive growth.”

He stressed the importance of self-assessment, urging students to choose their paths wisely—whether in employment or entrepreneurship—but to pursue them with skill and passion in today’s competitive world.

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Celebrating Participation and Innovation

The day also saw the organizers felicitate schools and colleges whose students visited the exhibition, by awarding them plaques on the main stage. The participation from educational institutions has been overwhelming, creating a sense of ownership and excitement among young attendees.

DIPEX 2025 continues to be a melting pot of ideas where student innovations—ranging from sustainable energy solutions to smart automation projects—are drawing admiration from industry leaders, faculty, and the public alike. The exhibition is not just about showcasing technology but about building bridges between vision, mentorship, and opportunity.

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Why DIPEX 2025 Matters for India’s Youth

With a growing focus on skill development, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance, DIPEX 2025 aligns perfectly with national goals like Atmanirbhar Bharat and Start-Up India. It serves as a launchpad for aspiring engineers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, providing them with exposure to industry experts and inspiring success stories.

As Pune continues to establish itself as a centre for education and innovation, platforms like DIPEX are playing a vital role in equipping the next generation with the knowledge, inspiration, and tools they need to thrive.