“Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi Inaugurates Build Bharat Expo 2025, Showcasing MSMEs as India’s Economic Backbone”

151+ Companies & Delegations from 34 Countries Convene for India’s Premier Industrial Expo

March 19, 2025 | Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi

New Delhi, March 19, 2025 – The Build Bharat Expo 2025, India’s largest industrial exhibition, commenced today with a grand inaugural ceremony at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Organized by the Indian Industries Association (IIA), this three-day event is dedicated to fostering MSME growth, facilitating global trade collaborations, and shaping progressive industrial policies.

Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi inaugurated the expo as the chief guest, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening small and medium enterprises. The ceremony was graced by ambassadors and trade commissioners from 20+ countries, senior government officials, and leading entrepreneurs. Over 151 companies have set up exhibits, while trade delegations from 34 nations, including Austria, Malaysia, Russia, Iran, Canada, and Iceland, are actively participating.

MSMEs: The Foundation of India’s Economic Growth

In his keynote address, Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi underscored the pivotal role of MSMEs in job creation, rural development, and technological innovation. He emphasized that India’s long-term economic success is deeply tied to the prosperity of small enterprises, calling them the backbone of the economy.

“India cannot become a global economic powerhouse solely through large industries. Sustainable growth lies in empowering MSMEs, enabling them to scale, innovate, and access international markets,” said Manjhi.

He also highlighted key government initiatives, including the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Yojana, which provides financial aid and skill development opportunities to traditional artisans and small business owners. Additionally, he encouraged MSMEs to leverage the Udyam and Udyam Assist Portals for simplified business registration and policy benefits.

Major Policy Announcements: Leasehold to Freehold & National MSME Policy

Responding to recommendations from IIA National President Neeraj Singhal, Minister Manjhi supported the proposal to convert leasehold industrial land into freehold and assured necessary action on the matter.

He further announced:

The upcoming launch of a National MSME Policy, incorporating IIA’s key recommendations.
The reconstitution of the National MSME Board, ensuring IIA’s representation for stronger advocacy of MSME interests.

IIA Calls for Stronger MSME Policies

IIA National President Neeraj Singhal outlined a set of key policy demands to enhance MSME competitiveness, including:

Increasing MSME procurement quotas in public sector purchases from 25% to 40%.
Establishing a uniform freehold land policy for industrial plots.
Ensuring MSME representation on national policy-making bodies.

“We cannot achieve ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) without robust MSME support. Land reforms, higher procurement quotas, and structured accreditation systems are essential to uplift genuine industry players,” stated Singhal.

He also emphasized the expo’s impact on global trade, citing a previous exhibitor who secured an ₹18 crore international order through such events.

Uttar Pradesh Government’s Support for MSME & Skill Development

Speaking as the guest of honor, Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Minister Kapil Dev Aggarwal reaffirmed the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to industrial development. He highlighted how India’s proactive policies helped industries remain resilient even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There are two kinds of people—those who need assistance and those who provide it. Entrepreneurs belong to the latter group, and their contributions drive national progress,” said Aggarwal.

He also emphasized that MSMEs and skill development go hand in hand, explaining how Uttar Pradesh is modernizing ITIs (Industrial Training Institutes) to align with industry requirements.

Dignitaries & Industry Leaders Unite for MSME Growth

The inauguration was attended by:

Saharanpur MLA Rajiv Gumber
Ambassadors & Trade Commissioners from 20+ countries
IIA Senior Vice President Dinesh Goyal, who commended the government’s progressive MSME policies
IIA Secretary-General Alok Agarwal, who extended his gratitude to Minister Manjhi
IIA National Treasurer Awadhesh Agarwal, who presented a commemorative memento to the minister

Expo Showcases Cutting-Edge MSME Innovations

With over 500 architects, 1,000 entrepreneurs, and thousands of business visitors, the expo features groundbreaking advancements in:

Green & Clean Energy
Food Processing & Agritech
Electronics & Smart Manufacturing
Construction Materials
Exportable ODOP (One District One Product) Items

Women in MSMEs: The Future of Industrial Self-Reliance

Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini, Chairperson of IIA Delhi Chapter, emphasized that India’s industrial growth story is incomplete without empowering MSMEs.

“The Build Bharat Expo is a testament to India’s entrepreneurial spirit. For sustained growth, policymakers and industry leaders must work together to ensure MSMEs receive the right opportunities and resources,” she stated.