Our Mentors
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DR. PRAFULLA KR. SAIKIA
Dr. Prafulla Kr. Saikia, a former Additional Director of Industries & Commerce, Assam, holds a master’s degree from Guwahati University and has served in key roles across AIIDC, ASSL, DICC, and NEDFI. With international exposure in forums across countries like Australia, Germany, and Japan, he has made significant contributions to business promotion and entrepreneurship.
An accomplished author, he has published notable books including "Kiba Eta Koribo Pora Hole" (2019), "Our Entrepreneurs Our Pride" (2021), and "Entrepreneurs Handbook" (2021). Currently, he serves as a Special Executive Officer at AFCSCL, focusing on enhancing rice milling capacity, setting up rural godowns, and promoting paddy procurement from farmers.
In SAMARTH, Dr. Saikia mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them through business planning, government schemes, and operational processes.
DR. SAMIR BARUAH
Dr. Samir Baruah, PhD, is a mentor, financial expert, social entrepreneur, and motivational speaker with extensive experience in banking and enterprise development. Formerly Corporate General Manager of Indian Overseas Bank, he has held key roles across multiple states and served as Director at Assam Power Generation Corporation Ltd. Currently, he advises organizations like the Indian Chamber of Commerce Northeast, Laghu Udyog Bharti, and BRAIN (Brahmaputra Region Angel Investment Network).
In SAMARTH, Dr. Baruah mentors participants in banking and financial linkages, guiding startups on securing funding, working with banks, and accessing government schemes. He actively supports rural and entrepreneurial development initiatives across the region.
SRI JITEN KALITA
Sri Jiten Kalita, a retired faculty member of IIE and an eminent Assamese writer, has significantly contributed to the region's cultural and literary landscape.
In SAMARTH, Sri Kalita mentors new entrepreneurs, guiding them in selecting suitable startups, establishing businesses, and navigating related procedures.
MRINMAY PATHAK
Mrinmoy Pathak, a Chartered Accountant and Strategic Director at Youthcove Foundation, brings over 9 years of extensive consulting experience, having empowered more than 1000 enterprises across Northeast India in the realms of financial and business management. An alumnus of the Leadership Development Program at IIM Ahmedabad and a graduate of Delhi University, he is known for his results-driven approach in business transformation and innovation-led consulting.
Renowned for preparing over 150 financial proposals in a single month during the EDP conducted by IIT Guwahati and the Government of Assam, Mr. Pathak has also been acknowledged by SBI for his contributions in financial proposal development. His expertise spans business modeling, digital tool development, financial infrastructure, and startup incubation.
At SAMARTH, he plays a vital role as a mentor, guiding entrepreneurs in structuring robust business plans, navigating statutory compliances, and leveraging digital and financial intelligence for sustainable growth. He is also committed to capacity building through training programs and strategic advisory across government and private enterprises.
