New Delhi, The much-anticipated Build Bharat Expo 2025 kicked off today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, with a grand inaugural ceremony. Organized by the Indian Industries Association (IIA), the three-day event is dedicated to fostering MSME growth, enhancing global trade collaborations, and driving policy discussions to strengthen small businesses.
Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi presided over the event as the chief guest, reiterating the government’s commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The ceremony was attended by ambassadors and trade commissioners from 20 countries, along with senior government officials, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs. More than 151 companies have set up exhibits, while trade delegations from 34 nations, including Austria, Malaysia, Russia, Iran, Canada, and Iceland, are participating in the expo.
MSMEs: The Driving Force of India’s Economic Growth
In his keynote address, Jitan Ram Manjhi underscored the critical role of MSMEs in fostering employment, innovation, and rural economic development. He emphasized that the true strength of India’s economy lies in its small and medium enterprises, calling them the foundation of sustainable economic growth.
“India cannot achieve global economic leadership solely through large-scale industries. The real transformation will happen when MSMEs flourish, generate employment, and expand into international markets,” – Jitan Ram Manjhi
The minister also highlighted key government initiatives aimed at supporting MSMEs, including the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Yojana, which provides financial aid and skill training for traditional artisans and small businesses. He urged entrepreneurs to leverage platforms like Udyam and Udyam Assist Portals, designed to simplify business registration and policy support.
Support for Industrial Land Reforms & National MSME Policy
Responding to a proposal from IIA National President Neeraj Singhal, Manjhi expressed his support for converting leasehold industrial land into freehold, promising to take necessary policy measures.
He also announced that the National MSME Policy would soon be introduced, incorporating recommendations from the IIA. Additionally, he confirmed that the National MSME Board would be fully constituted, with key industry bodies like the IIA playing a major role in policy advocacy.
IIA Calls for Stronger MSME Policies & Procurement Support
IIA National President Neeraj Singhal welcomed industry leaders and policymakers, emphasizing the need for stronger government policies to boost MSMEs. He outlined key demands, including:
- Raising MSME procurement quotas in public sector purchases from 25% to 40%
- Implementing a uniform freehold land policy for industrial leases
- Reforming the National MSME Board with IIA representation to ensure fair advocacy for North Indian MSMEs
“We cannot talk about an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ without strengthening MSMEs. Long-term security through land reforms, increased procurement quotas, and structured accreditation systems is essential for supporting genuine industry players,” – Neeraj Singhal
He also cited previous success stories, mentioning how an exhibitor at a past event secured an ₹18 crore order through global trade opportunities.
Uttar Pradesh Government’s Commitment to Industrial Growth
Speaking as the guest of honor, Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Minister Kapil Dev Aggarwal reaffirmed the state and central governments’ commitment to MSME development. He praised India’s industrial resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting financial and policy support measures that helped industries stay operational with minimal disruptions.
“MSMEs and skill development go hand in hand, which is why the Uttar Pradesh government is modernizing ITIs to align with evolving industry demands,” – Kapil Dev Aggarwal
Industry Leaders, Diplomats & Entrepreneurs Unite
The inauguration was attended by Saharanpur MLA Rajiv Gumber, along with ambassadors and trade representatives from various nations.
During the ceremony:
- IIA Senior Vice President Dinesh Goyal praised recent government budget allocations for MSME growth.
- IIA Secretary-General Alok Agarwal expressed gratitude to Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, acknowledging his support for small businesses.
- IIA National Treasurer Awadhesh Agarwal honored the minister with a commemorative memento.
Expo Showcases Cutting-Edge Innovations & Global Trade Opportunities
Over 500 architects, 1,000 entrepreneurs, and thousands of business visitors explored innovative solutions in key industrial sectors, including:
Green Energy
Food Processing
Electronics & Electricals
Construction Materials
Exportable ODOP (One District One Product) Items
Strengthening India’s Path to Industry 4.0
Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini, Chairperson of IIA Delhi, emphasized the expo’s role in driving industrial self-reliance and global trade expansion.
“India’s industrial success depends on MSME empowerment. Build Bharat Expo is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit shaping our nation’s future. Policymakers and industry leaders must work together to create the right ecosystem for these businesses to flourish.” – Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini
Government & Institutional Support for MSME Growth
Build Bharat Expo 2025 is supported by:
- The Ministry of MSME, Government of India
- The Ministry of Food Processing Industries
- The MSME & Export Promotion Department of Uttar Pradesh
The event aims to accelerate India’s transition to Industry 4.0, enhance MSME competitiveness globally, and create new business opportunities for small enterprises.
