New Delhi: The Indian Industries Association (IIA), Delhi State, celebrated International MSME Day 2026 by hosting the MSME Pride Walkathon 2026 at Karnail Singh Stadium, New Delhi, centered around the theme “Walking Together for Quality, Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Employment.”
The event was organized in collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and supported by Atal Incubation Centre, JNU; Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Professional Studies; J&K Bank; Run & Rally Club; and Achievers Squad.
The Walkathon was conceived and led under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini, Chairperson, IIA Delhi State , and brought together industrialists, entrepreneurs, startups, innovators, academicians, students, quality professionals and policymakers on a common platform to strengthen the MSME ecosystem and contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The programme commenced with the National Anthem, followed by a welcome address by Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini. She emphasized the importance of collaboration among MSMEs, academia, startups and quality institutions in building an innovation-driven and self-reliant India. She also encouraged students and young innovators to become job creators and contribute towards the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Sanjay Mayukh, National Spokesperson & Media Co-Head, BJP and Member of Legislative Council, Bihar, lauded MSMEs as the backbone of the Indian economy and highlighted their vital role in employment generation, innovation and nation-building. He called upon entrepreneurs and young innovators to actively contribute towards India’s development journey.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Ved Prakash, Director & Head, DBO-II, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), stressed the importance of quality standards and certification in enhancing the competitiveness of Indian MSMEs and expanding their market opportunities.
Dr. Neeraj Singhal, Former National President, IIA, highlighted the role of entrepreneurship, innovation and industry collaboration in strengthening India’s MSME ecosystem and driving economic growth.
Mr. Neeraj Bajaj, Secretary, IIA Delhi State, emphasized that MSMEs are key drivers of growth and employment and reaffirmed IIA’s commitment to supporting their progress and competitiveness.
The programme also witnessed the felicitation of distinguished guests, industry leaders, social contributors, healthcare professionals, startup mentors and representatives from various organizations for their valuable contributions towards society, industry and nation-building.
A special highlight of the event was the presentation of the IIA Achievers Awards 2026. The Young Entrepreneur Award was conferred upon Ms. Komal Kriti, Arrucus Media Pvt. Ltd. The Successful Entrepreneur Awards were presented to Mr. Devendra Tiwari and Everite Agencies Private Limited for Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Leadership.
Following the Walkathon, participants formed a symbolic Human Chain around the stadium, reflecting unity, collaboration and a shared commitment towards quality, innovation, entrepreneurship and nation-building.
Another unique feature of the event was the MSME Commitment Board, where participants collectively pledged their commitment towards the growth, competitiveness and advancement of the MSME sector and signed the board as a symbol of their dedication to strengthening India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini expressed heartfelt gratitude to the BIS team, particularly Mr. Rahul and Mr. Aditya, for their invaluable support and cooperation in making the event a success.
The Association expressed its appreciation to Mr. Rakesh Aneja, Mr. Sanjay Agarwal, Mr. Harsh Agarwal and Mr. Sanjay Garg for their gracious presence and support.
The Association also placed on record its sincere appreciation for the dedicated efforts of the IIA Delhi Organising Team — Mr. Charanjit Singh, Mr. Mriggendra Kumar, Mr. Madhukar Sahay, CA H.K. Gupta, Mr. Narendra Kothari, Mr. Manish Chawla, Mr. Rishabh Aggarwal, Ms. Ishmit Kaur and Ms. Ramnit Kaur — whose commitment and tireless efforts were instrumental in making MSME Pride Walkathon 2026 a grand success.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Lakshmikant Pandey, CEC Member and Mentor, IIA Delhi State, who thanked all dignitaries, partners, participants and volunteers for their valuable support.
The overwhelming participation and enthusiastic response demonstrated the growing strength of India’s MSME ecosystem and reaffirmed its unwavering commitment towards quality, innovation, entrepreneurship, employment generation and the collective vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
