Aniket Sardhana
151+ Companies & Trade Delegations from 20+ Countries Convene in New Delhi
New Delhi, India’s leading industrial exhibition, Build Bharat Expo 2025, officially commenced today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking a major step in promoting MSME growth, trade partnerships, and industrial innovation. Organized by the Indian Industries Association (IIA), the three-day event has brought together business leaders, policymakers, and international trade representatives.
The expo was inaugurated by Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, who reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The opening ceremony was attended by ambassadors and trade commissioners from over 20 countries, as well as senior government officials and industry stakeholders. More than 151 companies have set up exhibits, while trade delegations from 34 nations, including Austria, Malaysia, Russia, Iran, Canada, and Iceland, are actively participating.
Manjhi: MSMEs Are the Backbone of India’s Economy
In his keynote speech, Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi underscored the vital role of MSMEs in job creation, rural development, and innovation, emphasizing that India’s economic progress hinges on their growth.
“Large corporations alone cannot transform India into a global economic leader. Sustainable progress will only be achieved when MSMEs expand, innovate, and contribute to employment generation,” he stated.
He highlighted key government initiatives, including the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Yojana, which supports traditional artisans and small businesses through financial aid and skill development programs. He also encouraged entrepreneurs to leverage the Udyam and Udyam Assist Portals, designed to simplify business registration and policy access.
Support for Leasehold to Freehold Industrial Land Conversion
Responding to policy suggestions by IIA National President Neeraj Singhal, Manjhi expressed his support for converting leasehold industrial land into freehold properties, stating that the government will take necessary measures in this direction.
He also announced that the government will soon introduce a National MSME Policy, incorporating recommendations from the IIA, and confirmed the upcoming full constitution of the National MSME Board, with key industry organizations like the IIA as core members.
IIA Calls for Stronger MSME Policies
IIA National President Neeraj Singhal outlined essential policy measures to empower MSMEs, advocating for:
- Increasing MSME procurement quotas in public sector purchases from 25% to 40%
- A uniform freehold land policy for industrial leases
- Greater industry representation in the National MSME Board
“A truly self-reliant India (‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’) is only possible when MSMEs are given the right support through land security, increased procurement opportunities, and industry-accredited reforms,” Singhal stated.
He also highlighted the export potential of MSMEs, citing a previous exhibitor who secured an ₹18 crore order through such trade expos.
Skill Development and MSME Growth Go Hand in Hand
Speaking as the Guest of Honor, Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Minister Kapil Dev Aggarwal highlighted the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to industrial development.
He emphasized that even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian industries remained resilient, thanks to government support and financial assistance programs.
“Entrepreneurs are the driving force of the economy. Their growth leads to national progress, and that is why skill development and MSME promotion must go hand in hand,” he said.
Aggarwal further elaborated on the modernization of ITIs (Industrial Training Institutes) in Uttar Pradesh, aligning training programs with industry demands to equip young professionals with relevant skills.
A Grand Industry Gathering with Global Participation
The inaugural ceremony was also attended by:
- Saharanpur MLA Rajiv Gumber
- Ambassadors and trade representatives from multiple nations
- IIA Senior Vice President Dinesh Goyal, who praised the government’s ongoing MSME initiatives
IIA Secretary-General Alok Agarwal extended gratitude to Chief Guest Jitan Ram Manjhi, while IIA National Treasurer Awadhesh Agarwal presented him with a commemorative memento.
The event has attracted 500+ architects, 1,000+ entrepreneurs, and thousands of business visitors, exploring innovations in sectors such as green energy, food processing, electronics, construction materials, and ODOP (One District One Product) exportable goods.
Empowering MSMEs for India’s Industrial Future
Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini, Chairperson of IIA Delhi, emphasized the importance of MSMEs in driving industrial self-sufficiency, stating:
“India’s economic growth is incomplete without the empowerment of MSMEs. The Build Bharat Expo is a reflection of our nation’s entrepreneurial spirit, and it is crucial for policymakers and industry leaders to collaborate in providing these businesses with the right resources and opportunities.”
Supported by:
- The Ministry of MSME
- The Ministry of Food Processing Industries
- The MSME & Export Promotion Department of Uttar Pradesh
The expo is focused on accelerating India’s shift towards Industry 4.0 and enhancing MSME competitiveness on the global stage.
Conclusion: A Must-Attend Expo for MSME Growth
With strong government backing, international participation, and business networking opportunities, Build Bharat Expo 2025 is set to become a key driver for MSME expansion and industrial growth in India.
NI Bureau
