Kolkata | 13 October 2026: The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), under the Presidency of Mr. Parthiv Neotia, hosted Diplomats and Heads of Missions from 12 countries for a two-day engagement in Kolkata aimed at strengthening bilateral business relationships and exploring new opportunities for international collaboration. Mr. Parthiv Neotia who is also the Managing Director, Ambuja Neotia – Healthcare, recently assumed the Presidency of the ICC.

The initiative comes at a time when India pursues its ambition of becoming a $7 trillion economy by 2030 and a $30 trillion economy by 2047, aligned with the larger vision of Viksit Bharat. Eastern India, with its industrial capabilities, strategic location and emerging opportunities across infrastructure, manufacturing, technology, tourism and services, has an important role to play in this journey. Recognizing the importance of stronger global partnerships in realizing this potential, ICC brought together international representatives for business deliberations alongside an experience of Bengal’s Durga Puja celebrations.

Diplomats and Heads of Missions from Germany, Australia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Italy, Thailand, Cyprus, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Indonesia participated in discussions exploring bilateral trade, investment opportunities and greater institutional cooperation.

The engagement is also an extension of UNITE, the theme introduced by Mr. Parthiv Neotia upon assuming the Presidency of ICC. The vision seeks to bring businesses, institutions, governments and international stakeholders closer together, creating stronger connections between markets, capital, knowledge and opportunities to support India’s economic aspirations.

Welcoming the diplomats, Mr. Parthiv Neotia, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce and Managing Director, Ambuja Neotia- Healthcare said, ” As we work towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, international collaborations can help Indian businesses reach new markets, strengthen manufacturing, adopt new technologies, and participate more meaningfully in global value chains. Collaborations can also create opportunities for learning, innovation, and employment alike. Within the larger national ambition, West Bengal plays a significant role. Located at the crossroads of eastern India, the Bay of Bengal, the South and Southeast Asia, the state is well-placed to serve as India’s eastern gateway to a wider region. Its ports, transport network, industrial ecosystem, skilled workforce, proximity to neighboring markets, provide a strong foundation for a deeper international engagement. Furthermore, Durga Puja offers a wonderful occasion to introduce our international guests to Bengal’s creativity, traditions and people, alongside its business potential.”

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Swapan Dasgupta, Hon’ble Finance Minister, Government of West Bengal, said, “Over the last decade India has come a long way in transforming its economic landscape, wherein Global Partners have been trying to get a slice of the Indian Market and the Indian Businesses have made significant inroads in the Global Market.  I am glad to state, that we are working towards making West Bengal an economy that is open to all and presents opportunities that not only benefit our people but also those National and International Stakeholders who choose to collaborate with us.”

Minister-in-Charge for Industry, Commerce & Enterprises, Public Enterprises & Industrial Reconstruction, and Non-Conventional and Renewable Energy Sources, Government of West Bengal, Shri. Tapas Roy addressing the gathering said, “Our focus is on promoting modern industries through time-bound approvals, investment incentives, improved ease of doing business and the development of a GIS-based industrial land bank. We are prioritizing sectors such as engineering, steel, chemicals, semiconductors and IT, alongside traditional industries, while strengthening export-oriented commerce and startup support. Our objective is to accelerate industrial and economic growth and generate employment. I urge the industry and international business community to extend their cooperation and join us in this endeavor.”

During the summit, The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) released Bengal 2.0: From Here to Eternity, a book examining West Bengal’s economic journey and outlining a roadmap for its revival. This book identifies significant strengths on which this revival can be built, including Bengal’s extensive MSME ecosystem, agricultural leadership, port infrastructure, talent pool and strategic location as a gateway to the North-East and neighboring countries. It highlights that these advantages, supported by a conducive investment environment and effective coordination between the State and the Centre, can help unlock a new phase of growth.

Following the business deliberations, the visiting delegation experienced Kolkata’s Durga Puja celebrations by visiting select pandals.  Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Durga Puja offered the diplomats a glimpse into Bengal’s artistic traditions, craftsmanship and community spirit. The visits also provided an opportunity to appreciate the cultural significance of the festival and the creativity that brings communities together in celebration.

By bringing together economic dialogue and cultural experiences, ICC sought to foster a deeper understanding of Eastern India and build relationships that extend beyond formal business interactions. The initiative reflects the Chamber’s broader ambition to strengthen the region’s international engagement and contribute to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

“Vidya, that is, knowledge, is not enough. Knowledge is only the potential; when you add entrepreneurship, it becomes power.”

ON AI AND HUMAN DECISION-MAKING:

Speaking about the role of AI in Operation Sindoor, General Dwivedi emphasised that technology and artificial intelligence do not work in isolation, with human experience and judgement continuing to play a central role. He said, “In this, the artificial intelligence did not work alone. It was the experience which worked with it. So, what is important is that together, we become powerful, the machine cues data and then humans decide. So, the machine is there to support you, but humans are the ones who will decide when to act, where to act, and when to stop.”

He also spoke about how the pace of planning and execution is changing with AI, saying, “Earlier, we used to look at 80 per cent of planning. Once you finish planning, then you look at execution. But in view of the artificial intelligence, your pace is so fast that you have to have concurrent planning and execution.” Connecting this shift to the adaptability of the younger generation, General Dwivedi said, “You are 36 crore Generation Z who are going to take this India forward. So, you don’t have to just know AI. You have to ride the AI like a horse rider, and AI and humans have to collaborate, for which Indians are always the best adapters.”

ON THE VISION OF VIKSIT BHARAT 2047:

Speaking about the future of national security and the role of young technology professionals, General Dwivedi said that a future Operation Sindoor would require collaboration between the armed forces and civil professionals. “As far as Operation Sindoor is concerned, now, if you are looking at 2.0, whenever it comes in the future, it will be a combination of the uniformed warriors and the civil warriors like you.”

“The next war will not have any borders. It will be there in the economic field. It will also be addressing your aircraft, airlines, airports, railway stations, and banking.”

He further highlighted the role of technology graduates in securing digital infrastructure. “Besides helping the Indian Army, you will be fighting the UPI in case somebody is carrying out an attack on that. So, payments defects and, of course, the affordable solutions to counter the drones. The smartphone will be the front line, and your code will be a shield or a coverage. So, Viksit Bharat 2047 will be in labs and startups which you are going to create in the future.”

APPRECIATING THE INITIATIVES AT VIT BHOPAL UNIVERSITY:

General Dwivedi also highlighted VIT Bhopal University’s STARS programme, saying, “If there are people from such a wide variety of backgrounds, then my kudos to VIT, which has brought everyone together. And that’s why I must compliment the STARS (Support the Advancement of Rural Students) Scheme programme of VIT, through which so many students from different places are studying here.”

He also appreciated the university’s approach to creativity and alternative approaches, referring to its No-Bag Day. “That is something great. It was something very creative, and I have never seen it at any college or university.”

The address concluded with General Dwivedi urging the graduating students to translate their knowledge into action and innovation. He emphasised that the next phase of India’s growth will be shaped by young professionals who can combine technology, entrepreneurship and human judgement to build solutions for the country. His message placed the graduating students at the centre of India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

The celebrations assumed special significance as the nation is commemorating 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, the National Song. The song was sung on the occasion with patriotic fervour, adding to the spirit of the celebrations.Following the flag hoisting, the CMD took the salute and inspected the ceremonial parade comprising platoons of ECL Security and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Addressing the gathering, Jha paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices led to India’s independence and highlighted ECL’s role in strengthening the country’s energy security and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

He said the company’s growth should extend beyond coal production and encompass operational excellence, quality, safety, technological innovation, environmental responsibility, transparency and the welfare of employees and communities.

The CMD called upon Team ECL to continue working with discipline, innovation and unity and contribute towards strengthening India’s energy security and industrial development.

Among those present on the occasion were Director (Finance) Shri Md. Anzar Alam; Director (HR) Shri Gunjan Kumar Sinha; Director (Technical/P&P) Shri Girish Gopinathan Nair; Director (Technical/Operations) Shri Chitranjan Kumar; Chief Vigilance Officer, ECL, Smt. Deepti Patel; and President, Shatakshi Mahila Mandal, Smt. Kiran Jha, along with Vice-Presidents Smt. Anubha Sinha, Smt. Geetha Radhamani and Smt. Shweta Kumari.

Representatives of trade unions, heads of departments, employees and contractual workers from various units of ECL also attended the celebrations.

The programme concluded with the felicitation of members of the ECL Mines Rescue Team. Smt. Kiran Jha, president, Satakshi Mahila Mandal, presented certificates of appreciation and mementoes to members of the team who had participated in rescue operations following the disaster at the under-construction Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Power Project in Sikkim.

The highlight of the celebrations was Naya Bharat, a theatrical production that seamlessly blended drama, live music, dance and tableaux to present a compelling reflection on India’s journey from its past to its emerging future. Conceptualised as a fusion of history and contemporary India, the production drew inspiration from the musical pieces “Jab Zero Diya Mere Bharat Ne” and “Beete Kal Se Humko Seekhte Jaana Hai.”

Structured as a magical museum adventure, the story followed four students who are taken to a museum during their holiday, only to find themselves transported into a world where history comes alive. Guided by the enigmatic Curator, Mr. Matrix, the students encounter historical figures as well as contemporary trailblazers from technology, agritech, sports and space.

Drawing inspiration from the school’s much-loved drama activity, Night Watchman, the production adopted a familiar and engaging theatrical format to connect young audiences with India’s past, present and future. Rather than concluding with a conventional message, Naya Bharat ended with a question addressed directly to the audience: “How will you write the next chapter?” The question underscored the central message of the production that the younger generation holds the pen to shape India’s future.

In his Independence Day address, Dr. Skand Bali, Principal, HPS Begumpet called upon students to ‘embrace technological progress without losing their individuality, cultivate civic responsibility, and rise above divisions of caste, creed, language and race.’

Ms. Amritha Chandra Raju, Vice-Principal, The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet, said, “Independence Day is an opportunity for our students not only to remember the sacrifices and achievements that shaped our nation, but also to reflect on the role they will play in its future. Naya Bharat beautifully captured this transition from learning from our past to imagining and creating the India of tomorrow. We hope our students carry forward the values of curiosity, responsibility, courage and unity as they become active contributors to the nation’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.”

The cultural programme, Naya Bharat, brought India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047 to life through drama, music and dance, celebrating the nation’s achievements while inspiring students to shape its future.

The celebrations concluded with the National Anthem, reaffirming the values of unity, responsibility and hope that remain central to the spirit of Independence Day.

Jai Hind!

To strengthen outreach beyond digital platforms, MY Bharat and the Corporate Affairs Ministry have also organized physical internship and awareness camps in cities like Chennai, Pune, and Dantewada. These regional camps enabled candidates to interact directly with employers, understand available professional roles, and receive hands-on assistance with their application formalities, drawing strong participation from hundreds of aspiring professionals.

This collaborative initiative aims to significantly strengthen India’s youth employability ecosystem by creating structured, accessible pathways to corporate internships. By combining digital mobilization with targeted grassroots outreach, the program successfully bridges the gap between youth talent and industry requirements, driving forward the national vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 by equipping young citizens with future-ready skills and invaluable corporate exposure.

Mumbai, 18 July 2026: The Aluminium Extrusion Manufacturers Association of India (ALEMAI) has announced ‘ALUMINIUM BHARAT‑2026’, a national initiative to strengthen India’s value‑added aluminium midstream and downstream products manufacturing ecosystem and support the Government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047.  The Mumbai curtain‑raiser press conference introduces the initiative to industry and media ahead of the flagship exhibition in Gandhinagar.

India possesses abundant bauxite reserves and ranks among the leading alumina‑producing nations, giving it a strong natural advantage in aluminium manufacturing.

Yet, despite this resource base, Indian aluminium manufacturers especially MSMEs are forced to buy primary and secondary raw material at some of the highest prices among major developing economies, driven by high interest costs, elevated energy prices and multiple fiscal levies on inputs.

Against this backdrop, ALUMINIUM BHARAT‑2026, to be held from 26–29 September 2026 at the Helipad Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar (Ahmedabad), Gujarat, alongside ALUMEX INDIA 2026, is being positioned as India’s first comprehensive platform for the entire aluminium value chain.

The exhibition will bring together primary producers, extrusion and rolling units, recyclers, technology and equipment suppliers, policymakers, financiers and global buyers under one roof to deliberate on reforms, investments and collaborations needed to unlock India’s downstream potential.

Through this initiative, ALEMAI aims to spotlight four urgent priorities for policymakers and industry:

– Rationalising tariffs on primary and raw materials and reviewing FTA‑driven zero‑duty imports of downstream products to restore a level playing field.

-Reducing energy and finance costs to make Indian aluminium MSMEs cost‑competitive globally.

– Encouraging domestic consumption of value‑added aluminium products to fully utilise the country’s 3‑million‑tonne extrusion capacity.

– Aligning India’s aluminium strategy with global trends that favour high‑value downstream exports over commodity‑grade metal.

A key concern for the industry is the tariff and FTA imbalance between raw materials and finished, value‑added aluminium products. Under Free Trade Agreements with ASEAN and other partner countries, including the UAE, a large basket of downstream aluminium products now enter India at zero or near‑zero duty, putting severe pressure on domestic value‑added manufacturers.

At the same time, primary aluminium (HS 7601) attracts a basic customs duty of 7.5% plus surcharge, taking the effective rate above 8%, and similar levies apply on many other raw material categories. This structure makes raw material more expensive in India than in several competing developing economies, while cheap finished products arrive duty‑free creating a serious handicap for Indian midstream and downstream players in both domestic and export markets.

India’s aluminium extrusion industry has an installed capacity of about 3 million tonnes per annum, but is currently producing only 1.2–1.3 million tonnes, with imports of downstream products estimated at around 1.5 million tonnes to bridge the gap. This under‑utilisation of capacity is not due to lack of demand, but to structural issues high raw material costs, tariff distortions, expensive energy, and intense competition from subsidised imports under FTAs.

The situation undermines investments, keeps MSMEs in “survival mode” and prevents India from realising its full potential as a global hub for aluminium value‑added products.

Globally, leading aluminium nations are prioritising downstream value‑addition and exports of finished aluminium products rather than primary metal, using trade and industrial policy to promote high‑value manufacturing.  China, for example, has increasingly focused on boosting exports of fabricated and engineered aluminium components, thereby capturing more value and supporting domestic employment and technology development.  Indian industry leaders argue that India must follow a similar path shifting the policy lens from commodity exports to value‑added aluminium products and advanced downstream manufacturing.

By launching ALUMINIUM BHARAT‑2026, ALEMAI is calling for a focused, national conversation on how India can convert its rich bauxite and alumina base into globally competitive, value‑added aluminium products, powered by a resilient midstream and downstream manufacturing ecosystem.

The conference was graced by Ms. Tulika Pandey, Scientist ‘G’ & Group Coordinator, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, as the Guest of Honour. Shri Madhvendra Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Electronics Sector Skills Council of India (ESSCI); Ms. Sheetal Chopra, Director, National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), MeitY, as the Special Guests and other esteemed panelists from the industry and academia.

Addressing the august gathering, Ms. Tulika Pandey highlighted that semiconductor sovereignty today extends beyond manufacturing capabilities to encompass trusted technologies, resilient supply chains, secure digital infrastructure and indigenous innovation. She emphasised that the Government of India, through the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and the recently announced ISM 2.0, is creating a comprehensive ecosystem covering semiconductor design, fabrication, packaging, testing, research, innovation and advanced manufacturing. Calling upon industry to transition from technology adopters to technology creators, she stressed the need for greater participation in global standards, advanced materials, emerging technologies and ethical innovation. She further highlighted that MSMEs, startups and innovators will play a defining role in shaping India’s semiconductor future and reiterated that close collaboration between government, industry, academia and the skilling ecosystem is essential to realize the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Highlighting the critical role of talent development, Ms. Sheetal Chopra stated that human capital remains India’s greatest strategic advantage in the global semiconductor landscape. She noted that while fabrication facilities and manufacturing investments are important, India’s long-term competitiveness will depend on building a highly skilled workforce capable of contributing across the semiconductor value chain from the very first day. She highlighted NIELIT’s expanding role in strengthening India’s semiconductor talent ecosystem through its nationwide network of 56 centres, specialised programmes in semiconductor design, VLSI, embedded systems and emerging technologies, along with flagship initiatives such as the Centre of Excellence in Chip Design, Noida, the e-Chip Hub national learning platform and upcoming Centres of Excellence in Assam and Gujarat. She emphasised that democratising access to advanced technology education across Tier-II, Tier-III cities and aspirational districts will be instrumental in creating a globally competitive semiconductor workforce.

Shri Madhvendra Singh emphasized that semiconductor sovereignty has become a strategic imperative for India’s economic growth and national security. He noted that India’s semiconductor ecosystem is witnessing unprecedented momentum with 13 approved semiconductor projects, cumulative investments exceeding USD 20 billion, and a domestic semiconductor market projected to reach nearly USD 130 billion by 2030. He highlighted that this rapid expansion would require nearly 400,000 semiconductor professionals and approximately 1.5 million skilled workers across the broader semiconductor value chain. Stressing that MSMEs will be the backbone of component manufacturing, testing, packaging and precision engineering, he highlighted ESSCI’s initiatives in developing industry-aligned occupational standards, specialised curriculum, Centres of Excellence, apprenticeship programmes and faculty development to create a globally competitive semiconductor workforce.

Presenting the industry’s perspective, Shri Karan Mangla, Co-Chair, Foreign Trade & Investment Committee, PHDCCI, and Promoter & Director, S H Haryana Wire, stated that India has made remarkable progress in establishing the foundations of a robust semiconductor ecosystem through the approval of 13 semiconductor projects under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and the rollout of ISM 2.0. He emphasised that the country’s next priority must be to translate policy momentum into large-scale manufacturing by accelerating infrastructure development, ensuring cleanroom readiness, strengthening power and water infrastructure, and streamlining regulatory approvals. Stressing that semiconductor sovereignty cannot be achieved without a resilient domestic supply chain, he highlighted the indispensable role of MSMEs in component manufacturing, specialty materials, precision engineering, cleanroom consumables and allied industries. He further called for dedicated vendor development programmes, stronger industry-academia collaboration, manufacturing clusters and demand-side support to enable Indian enterprises to emerge as globally competitive players in the semiconductor value chain.

Welcoming the distinguished delegates, Dr. Jatinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General, PHDCCI, stated that semiconductors have emerged as the foundation of economic resilience, technological leadership and national security amid evolving geopolitical dynamics and global supply chain realignments. He said the conference was conceptualised to provide a common platform for policymakers, industry, academia and MSMEs to develop a shared roadmap for indigenous semiconductor design, fabrication, packaging and advanced manufacturing while identifying critical gaps in skilling, infrastructure and investments. Stressing the indispensable role of MSMEs in the semiconductor value chain, he said PHDCCI remains committed to supporting industry through policy advocacy and stakeholder engagement.

The conference also featured two high-level technical sessions titled “Building India’s Semiconductor Workforce: ISM 2.0 Training Mandate & Industry-Ready Talent” and “From Policy to Production: ISM 2.0, Manufacturing Scale-Up & Indigenous Design.” The sessions witnessed extensive deliberations on semiconductor manufacturing, indigenous chip design, talent development, advanced packaging, research and innovation, investment opportunities, MSME integration and supply chain resilience. Experts emphasised that sustained collaboration among government, industry, academia, research institutions and startups will be crucial for positioning India as a trusted global hub for semiconductor design, manufacturing and innovation.

The conference concluded with a strong consensus that India’s semiconductor ambitions must be driven by policy stability, accelerated investments, world-class infrastructure, a robust skilling ecosystem and a vibrant MSME network. Participants reaffirmed that by combining indigenous innovation with strategic partnerships and talent development, India is well-positioned to emerge as a leading global destination for semiconductor manufacturing and technology, contributing significantly to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047.

The collaboration will unify key national programs, integrating the Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) Certification Scheme with NSIC’s MSME Global Mart and Single Point Registration Scheme (SPRS). Under this framework, ZED-certified MSMEs will benefit from enhanced digital commerce opportunities, onboarding on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) via the TEAM Initiative, AI-enabled product cataloging, and dedicated export promotion. Furthermore, the partnership will strengthen laboratory infrastructure through NABL accreditation for NSIC facilities and leverage NABET to run customized capacity-building programs across training centers.

To drive effective execution, both organizations are constituting a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) that will meet quarterly to monitor progress and identify fresh avenues for collaboration. Leadership from both entities emphasized that the alliance merges quality consciousness with extensive market outreach. By empowering grassroots businesses to confidently enter domestic and global supply chains, the initiative marks a significant step forward in building a robust, quality-driven corporate landscape for India’s massive MSME sector. (PIB)

The initiative was designed to create greater public awareness and inspire citizens to actively contribute to a cleaner environment.

This industry-academia collaboration effectively combines PVUNL’s operational expertise with IIM Ranchi’s research and management capabilities to transform innovative ideas into commercially viable solutions. Under the leadership and vision of Prof. Deepak Kumar Srivastava, Director of IIM Ranchi, the initiative highlights immense potential for joint research, executive education, and capacity building. Together, both institutions are working to turn industrial waste into wealth, transforming challenges into lasting economic opportunities while contributing meaningfully toward the goal of Viksit Bharat @2047.

#PVUNL #NTPC #IIMRanchi #CircularEconomy #AshUtilization #Innovation #Sustainability #ViksitBharat2047 #CleanEnergy #PowerSector