MCCI organised Curtain Raiser Ceremony of ‘125th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION’ (TODAY) 23.02.2026 at Crystal Hall, Taj Bengal
Merchants’ Chamber of Commerce & Industry organised a Curtain Raiser Ceremony of MCCI’s 125th Year Anniversary Celebration on ‘India@2047: Economic Vision for the Amrit Kaal‘. The Chief Guest was Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Hon’ble Former President of India, and the Guest of Honour was Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose, Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal. The Session was held TODAY (Monday, 23 February 2026) at 4 pm at Crystal Hall, Taj Bengal, Kolkata.
Shri Ram Nath Kovind said that India is an inspiring story, 25 cr. People have come out of poverty over the last decade. India has doubled its economy in the last few years. India is an exporter of defence equipment to 80 Nations.
Hon’ble Former President mentioned that Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas Programme is appropriate for India. History teaches us that progress is a continuous journey, not a destination.
He suggested that greater investment is needed in research and innovation. The government has already invested in AI innovation. Now India should focus on the development of a circular economy.
The strength of Viksit Bharat will also depend on the enterprise of small businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs across towns and villages. He emphasised that MSMEs must move from being small suppliers to becoming globally competitive and export-oriented.
He added that India must be a digital leader and not merely an adopter. India should be a global hub for data, AI, and next-generation technologies.
Speaking at the ‘Curtain raiser ceremony of 125th anniversary’, India@2047: Economic Vision for the Amrit Kaal’ of MCCI on Monday, Kovind said that India’s strength also lies in small enterprises. “India has given importance to the MSMEs to get greater market access and simplified regulations.”
Kovind said India is also poised to become the global hub of AI. “The government is investing in the core data centre ecosystem. India will also acquire true digital sovereignty, which will lie in developing computer chips. India is solidifying its position in AI, which has become evident from the recently concluded AI Summit attended by several global leaders”.
According to Kovind, ‘Amrit Kaal’ also includes sustainability. He said environmental and economic progress do not oppose each other but are complementary. The strength of India will not only rest on economic parameters, but also on skill development and increased participation by the women workforce. The country will also have to ensure that progress and prosperity reach every household in the country.
“Building a developed India is a collective responsibility. The private sector must lead this endeavour by driving investments and creating employment opportunities”, Kovind said.
He also lauded MCCI for making the first woman president of the chamber in its 125 years of existence since 1901.
Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose said that the theme—India @ 2047: Economic Vision for the Amrit Kaal—invites us to look ahead with courage and clarity. He congratulated MCCI on selecting a lady President, the first in its 125-year history, and he wished that with her leadership qualities, the Chamber will be highly benefited and it would thrive in the future. He added that this is a moment of pride and a significant milestone reflecting progressive thought and respect for womanhood. Dr. Bose said that when women are honoured, the Gods rejoice.
Earlier Smt. Priti A. Sureka, President, MCCI, in her Welcome Address, said that the journey to 2047 demands a lot. India@2047 envisions an India that is:
- A USD 30 trillion economy
- A global manufacturing and supply chain hub
- A leader in green and sustainable growth
- A powerhouse of innovation and digital excellence
- An inclusive society where growth benefits every citizen
First, we must champion entrepreneurship at every level. Second, we must strengthen India’s manufacturing and trade ecosystem. Third, sustainability must move from compliance to conviction. Fourth, digital transformation is not optional — it is essential. Fifth and most importantly, inclusive growth. The true measure of economic progress is not just GDP, but the dignity and prosperity of every citizen.
The Session ended with a hearty Vote of thanks proposed by Shri Munish Jhajharia, Senior Vice President, MCCI, and he said that the idea of Amrit Kaal, articulated by our Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, represents the 25-year journey from the 75th year of independence to the centenary of a free India in 2047. It is a call to action — to build a developed, inclusive, innovative, and globally respected India.
