The Third Workshop of Sun Talks – PAILA (Program for Aspiring Innovators and Local Achievers) was successfully organized on January 18, 2026. Sun Talks – PAILA is a joint initiative of the District Administrative Centre (DAC), Gangtok, and the CSR Department, Sun Pharma Sikkim, and is being implemented by Stars Of Hope (SOH).
Sun Talks – PAILA is an initiative dedicated to nurturing entrepreneurship, innovation, and self-reliance. The program aims to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with a structured platform to transform their ideas, passions, and dreams into impactful and sustainable ventures. Through interactive workshops, expert mentorship, and hands-on learning sessions, participants gain practical knowledge and essential entrepreneurial skills required to build, validate, and scale enterprises.
The third workshop was conducted on the theme “Market Research and Validation”, with the objective of helping aspiring entrepreneurs understand the critical importance of market research in shaping and validating their business ideas. The session emphasized how informed decision-making, customer insights, and data-driven validation play a pivotal role in entrepreneurial success.
The workshop featured Ms. Mandira Chettri, Founder of O2 Himalaya, as the mentor speaker, who shared her inspiring entrepreneurial journey and the evolution of her venture, O2 Himalaya. The technical session was delivered by Dr. Kshittiz Chettri, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, NBBGC, who provided valuable insights by combining analytical perspectives with real-world applications. The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Bikash Thapa, Chairman, Stars Of Hope.
The program was further enriched by the gracious presence of Mr. Tushar Nikhare (IAS), DM-cum-DC Gangtok; Mr. Abhijeet Patil (IAS), SDM, Gangtok HQ; Mr. Bhawesh Khaliya (IAS), SDM, Gangtok; Ms. Devika Gurung, Founder, Fidgety Fingers; Ms. Shova Rai, Owner, Cutting Edge Salon and Spa; and Ms. Lalita Pradhan, Founder, Lola Blossom Handmade Jewellery.
To enhance engagement and learning outcomes, the workshop included a series of interactive activities and games that encouraged active participation, teamwork, and practical application of concepts discussed during the sessions.
Addressing the participants, Mr. Tushar Nikhare (IAS) motivated them to pursue continuous learning and remain committed to their ideas and long-term vision. He emphasized the importance of reading about real-life journeys and listening to testimonies of individuals, which can serve as powerful sources of inspiration and learning. He further assured participants of his full support and extended his best wishes for their entrepreneurial journey.
It was also announced that ,as per eligibility,some seed funding will be given to those participants who have the best ideas & who have been attending sessions regularly.
The next workshop under Sun Talks – PAILA is scheduled for 25 January 2026, and will focus on the theme “Business Planning, Legal and Compliance”.
The workshops are completely free of cost, and participants are not required to pay any fees at any stage. Individuals from all age groups and backgrounds are welcome to participate.
For further details, please contact: +91 8900225195 | +91 9474613621 (Stars Of Hope)
