The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) organized an industry outreach workshop in Lucknow on Tuesday, calling on businesses to capitalize on free trade agreements (FTAs), prioritize export-oriented manufacturing, and engage actively in government initiatives designed to enhance the ease of doing business.
Workshop Objectives and Participants
Jointly organized by DPIIT and Invest UP, the workshop brought together representatives from major industry associations, including ASSOCHAM, FICCI, CII, PHDCCI, Indian Industries Association (IIA), DICCI, and Laghu Udyog Bharti, alongside state government officials and other industry stakeholders. The primary focus was on improving industry outreach and strengthening stakeholder participation in India’s industrial growth agenda.
Keynote Address by Joint Secretary DPIIT
Lead speaker and Joint Secretary DPIIT Jai Prakash Shivahare emphasized that the Centre’s Jan Vishwas reforms had significantly reduced compliance burdens by eliminating several outdated and redundant laws. He stated, “The government is continuing its efforts to create a more business-friendly environment while expanding trade partnerships to counter global uncertainties, including geopolitical disruptions and tariff-related challenges in key export markets.”
Shivahare highlighted the critical role of exports in sustaining economic growth, noting that India had concluded more than nine FTAs in the past five years, covering nearly 39 countries. He urged industries to develop competitive, value-for-money products for global markets and pointed out that reciprocal certification mechanisms under trade agreements could facilitate easier market access for exporters.
Industry Feedback and Suggestions
Industry representatives used the platform to raise several concerns and suggestions. They called for simpler application processes under government schemes, wider awareness campaigns, and greater support for participation in trade fairs and exhibitions. Additionally, suggestions were made for creating a unified information platform and encouraging greater corporate social responsibility (CSR) support for startups.
State Government’s Role
Invest UP CEO Vijay Kiran Anand highlighted that Uttar Pradesh is complementing national reform efforts through regulatory simplification and digital governance measures. He emphasized the role of Nivesh Mitra 3.0 in strengthening the ease of doing business and noted that the state has established dedicated mechanisms for foreign investors while actively promoting its investment and industrial policies in global forums.
