Mumbai : The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) today convened the first Managing Committee Meeting of its newly constituted Maharashtra State Council for the term 2026-27, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders to discuss the state’s economic priorities, sectoral action plans and industry agenda for the year ahead.
A key highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ASSOCHAM Maharashtra State Council and the Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) (HRAWI). The partnership seeks to strengthen collaboration in the areas of industry representation, policy advocacy, ease of doing business, capacity building, business development and economic growth. The MoU will facilitate greater engagement between industry stakeholders and policymakers while creating a stronger platform to address sectoral challenges and opportunities.
Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Hardikar said, “The collaboration with HRAWI reflects our commitment to building stronger industry partnerships that can effectively represent business interests and contribute to policy formulation. By bringing together diverse sectors under a common platform, we aim to create meaningful opportunities for dialogue, knowledge sharing, capacity building and sustainable economic development.”
The meeting also featured a keynote address by noted economist Dr. Ajit Ranade on ‘Steering Indian Industry through Global Headwinds, Currency Crisis and Domestic Economic Realities’. Sharing his perspective on the evolving economic landscape, Dr. Ranade emphasized the need for Indian businesses to remain agile and globally competitive amid geopolitical uncertainties, currency volatility and changing trade dynamics.
Dr. Ajit Ranade said, “India enters this phase of global uncertainty from a position of relative strength. While businesses must remain agile amid evolving geopolitical and economic realities, the country’s robust domestic market, digital transformation journey and reform momentum provide strong foundations for sustained growth. The focus now should be on improving productivity, strengthening competitiveness and preparing Indian enterprises to seize emerging global opportunities.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Amitabh Chaudhry, Senior Vice President, ASSOCHAM and MD & CEO, Axis Bank, said, “At a time when the global economy continues to navigate geopolitical uncertainties, supply chain disruptions and market volatility, India’s resilience remains a source of confidence. Strong domestic demand, sustained public investment, robust GST collections and healthy export growth underscore the strength of our economic fundamentals. Maharashtra, with its leadership in financial services, manufacturing and investment attraction, is uniquely positioned to drive India’s next phase of growth. ASSOCHAM will continue to work closely with policymakers and industry stakeholders to foster a competitive, innovation-led and sustainable business ecosystem.”
Highlighting Maharashtra’s economic significance, Mr. Chaudhry noted that the state remains a leading contributor to India’s financial services sector, exports and industrial output, while continuing to attract substantial domestic and foreign investments.
Expressing his vision for the newly constituted State Council, Mr. Milind Hardikar, Chairman, ASSOCHAM Maharashtra State Council and Director – Group Strategic Initiatives, Welspun Group, said, “I am honoured to lead the ASSOCHAM Maharashtra State Council at a time when the State is playing an increasingly pivotal role in India’s growth story. The Council will serve as a strong platform for industry engagement, policy dialogue and collaborative action. Our focus will be on addressing industry priorities, promoting investments, supporting MSMEs, encouraging innovation and strengthening Maharashtra’s position as a leading destination for business and manufacturing. Together, we will work towards contributing meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.”
During the meeting, members deliberated on sectoral priorities and annual action plans, including initiatives related to manufacturing, chemicals, taxation, sustainability, MSME growth and ease of doing business. The discussions focused on strengthening Maharashtra’s industrial competitiveness, enhancing stakeholder engagement and identifying actionable policy recommendations to support the state’s continued economic leadership.
During the meeting, Ms. Perminder Kaur, Head States ASSOCHAM on behalf Secretary General, Mr. Saurab Sanyal welcomed the guests and emphasized on ASSOCHAM commitment of working closely with governments, industry stakeholders and policymakers to foster a conducive business environment and support India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from members to support Maharashtra’s growth aspirations and contribute towards making the state a global hub for investment, manufacturing, services and innovation.