Initiated by programme chairperson Prof. Ravindra Gokhale, the conclave featured keynote addresses by Kaushalya Gaonkar, Managing Director, Knorr-Bremse, and Prof. Bob Doherty, University of York, along with two industry panels.

The first panel, “From Dark Stores to Global Shop Floors,” examined how organisations can balance speed, cost, resilience and sustainability while preparing supply chains for future disruptions. Speakers also discussed hybrid manufacturing models, demand sensing and lessons that traditional manufacturing can draw from quick-commerce fulfilment. The second panel, “Supply Chains 5.0: AI, Governance & Global Trade,” focused on the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence, data-driven decision-making and India’s potential to benefit from global supply-chain diversification. The panel emphasised that AI adoption must be supported by reliable data, clear accountability and human oversight.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Manoj K. Tiwari, Director, IIM Mumbai urged students and future leaders to contribute actively to the India @ 2047 vision by combining technological capability with responsible leadership. Faculty members, including Prof. Binilkumar, A. S., Chairperson of Executive PG Programmes, Prof. Ranjni K.S., Chair of Weekend MBA and Prof. Rauf Iqbal, Associate Professor, highlighted the importance of the VLFM programme in developing professionals capable of bridging operational expertise with strategic leadership.

“India @ 2047 calls on our future leaders to turn technological progress into trusted, practical transformation. Our students must pair innovation with responsibility and contribute to a stronger, more resilient and globally competitive India,” Prof. Tiwari said.

As the programme chair who initiated ABHYUDAY, Prof. Gokhale closed the event with an inspiring keynote on the VLFM programme. He commended the Business Conclave Committee for its efforts in organising the event and highlighted the conclave’s role as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration among industry, academia and the VLFM cohort.

“ABHYUDAY 2026 has brought together valuable perspectives from industry, academia and the VLFM cohort. I commend the Business Conclave Committee for its excellent execution and hope ABHYUDAY continues to grow as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration,” said Prof. Ravindra Gokhale.