Invest Punjab Summit: 'Idea to Impact: Punjab's Journey as a Startup Destination' Session Spotlights State's Strong Ecosystem and Vision to Nurture Unicorn Startups
Chandigarh/SAS Nagar, March 14-The ongoing Invest Punjab Summit brought the state's burgeoning entrepreneurial landscape to the forefront during a highly engaging session titled "Idea to Impact: Punjab's Journey as a Startup Destination." The session gathered top government officials, industry veterans, and startup enablers to discuss the strategic vision for transforming Punjab into a premier hub for innovation and unicorn startups.
Highlighting the state's readiness to support massive growth, Chairperson of the Punjab Development Commission, Seema Bansal, set a strong and optimistic tone for the session. She said, "In Punjab, we possess an excellent and highly supportive ecosystem for business and innovation. When we look at today's successful tech unicorns, it is clear we have all the necessary elements in place to support such growth. Our focus now must be on how we can scale this ecosystem to build and nurture a number of unicorn startups here in the state."
Reinforcing this commitment, Director, Industries and Commerce, Surabhi Malik, showcased the proactive measures undertaken by the Punjab Government. Through a detailed presentation, she outlined the comprehensive fiscal and non-fiscal incentives currently being provided by the state to actively boost the startup ecosystem and ease the path for new ventures.
S. K. Rai, MD, Hero Cycle and MBCIE, captivated the audience by opening his address with the Urdu couplet, "Hungama shuru karna mera maqsad nahi." He strongly advocated for the development of alternative funding routes to supplement the support provided by the state government. Citing a successful model developed by IIT Roorkee, which mobilised over 24,000 investors to invest at least Rs 1,00,000 each in startups, he argued that investing in startups is among the safest forms of investment. Praising the inherent entrepreneurial spirit of Punjabis, he concluded his address with the resonant couplet, "Hum toh dariya hain hamme apna hunar maloom hai."
Earlier in the session, President of TiE Chandigarh, Puneet Verma, shed light on his organization's extensive initiatives in funding and handholding Startups. Addressing the core concerns of budding entrepreneurs, Verma said, "When people are listening to us, what they really want to ask is: what makes a company more successful? Since about 1993, we have focused on how we can educate you, how we can take you to the market, and how we can help you grow."
Adding to the collaborative dialogue, Somveer Anand, CEO of the Punjab Innovation Mission, shared his practical experiences and learnings from working closely with the "Startup Punjab" initiative, further emphasizing the on-ground realities of nurturing innovation.
The dynamic discussion was expertly guided by session moderator Himanshu Rattan, Lead of Food, Agriculture, and Allied Services at KPMG.
The productive event ultimately concluded with a vibrant open house discussion, allowing attendees to interact directly with the panel, followed by the formal felicitation of the key speakers.
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PROGRESSIVE PUNJAB INVESTOR SUMMIT - 2026 - AEROSPACE & DEFENCE SESSION
CABINET MINISTER DR. RAVJOT SINGH LISTS EXCELLENT CONNECTIVITY AND TECHNICAL ECO SYSTEM IN PUNJAB SUITED TO BOOST DEFENCE SECTOR
Chandigarh/Mohali, March 14:During the second day of the Progressive Punjab Investor Summit (PPIS) - 2026, the session on Aerospace and Defence saw thought provoking deliberations on strengthning defence structure in the country and how Punjab can make a contribution to the same.
Putting up a strong case for Punjab, the Parliamentary Affairs Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh while presiding over the session, said that Punjab possesses an excellent eco system suited to prop up the defence sector of the country and make an immensely precious contribution. The Minister cited the presence of 6 airports as excellent connectivity factors besides the Turbine Ballistic Research Laboratory (TBRL) and the Central Tool Room in Ludhiana. The Punjab Government also held a defence conclave recently to have a comprehensive discussion on issues pertaining to the defence sector.
The Ex Chief of Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa argued in favour of identifying and working on further improving the core competency areas in defence sphere.
Batting for having sectoral committees in defence sector on the lines of industrial sphere, the CEO, JSW Sarbloh Motors Jaskirat Vladimir Singh also underscored the importance of integrating MSMEs into defence manufacturing.
The CEO, Invest Punjab, Amit listed the strong manufacturing base of Punjab besides emphasizing upon the ease of doing business aspect which results in all necessary permissions within a span of 45 days.
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*Progressive Punjab Investors Summit: "Bicycles and eBikes" under the theme "From Parts to Platforms: Punjab’s Next Gen Cycles for Global Markets"*_
*PUNJAB’S CYCLE INDUSTRY GEARS UP FOR GLOBAL LEAP FROM PARTS TO PLATFORMS*
*INDUSTRY LEADERS HIGHLIGHT POLICY SUPPORT, INNOVATION AND EXPORT POTENTIAL IN BICYCLES AND E-BIKES SESSION*
*Chandigarh, March 14:*Deliberations during the session titled "Bicycles and eBikes" under the theme "From Parts to Platforms: Punjab’s Next Gen Cycles for Global Markets" underlined the state’s growing stature as a global manufacturing hub, with industry leaders asserting that policy stability, technological upgradation and ecosystem integration will drive the next phase of expansion.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman and Managing Director of Avon Cycles, Mr. Onkar Singh Pahwa, noted that Punjab is steadily creating a business friendly operating environment with clearer timelines, digitised approvals and reduced procedural burden, enabling entrepreneurs to focus on execution and innovation. Stressing the importance of predictability and continuity, he said initiatives such as reduced compliance load, expanded self certification for MSMEs and single point registration will accelerate project implementation and convert investment into employment, exports and industrial output.
Highlighting the relevance of the theme, he stated that Punjab possesses a strong legacy in bicycle manufacturing with more than 4000 MSME component producers and over 100 medium and large cycle manufacturers jointly producing about 2.2 million bicycles annually, making India one of the largest bicycle producing nations. He observed that the state accounts for the overwhelming share of components and raw material capabilities, with world class tyre manufacturing adding further strength to the ecosystem.
Emphasising the shift from component centric production to platform based manufacturing, Mr. Pahwa said modern consumers seek safety, durability, comfort, performance and electric assisted mobility solutions, pointing out that diversified manufacturing, including e-bikes, e-scooters, fitness equipment and premium export oriented cycles, is the emerging pathway to sustained growth. He added that global markets demand consistency, documentation discipline and robust quality assurance, making platform based capability building essential for long term export competitiveness.
Chairman and Managing Director of Ralson India, Mr. Sanjeev Pahwa, traced the historical evolution of the bicycle industry, stating that Ludhiana emerged as a key centre of affordable mobility in the early years after independence, driven by entrepreneurial spirit and innovation despite regulatory challenges. He highlighted that indigenous technology and ecosystem collaboration during the 1970s and 1980s enabled the growth of tyre and tube manufacturing industries, which today serve domestic and global markets.
He observed that the industry now stands at a crossroads due to changing mobility patterns, rising affluence and preference for motorcycles, reducing bicycles as a primary commuting option. He asserted that the sector must reinvent itself by repositioning bicycles as instruments of sports, leisure, health and sustainable urban mobility. Stressing the need for premiumisation, investment in research and development, advanced materials and supply chain strengthening, he welcomed the state’s progressive industrial policy, which encourages capital investment and technological upgradation.
Director of Hartex Rubber Mr. Varun Sureka, stated that Punjab offers a supportive industrial environment, strong manufacturing ecosystem and collaborative business culture, which makes it an attractive destination for new investments. He pointed out that global supply chain realignments are opening new opportunities for India, particularly as European and North American markets seek reliable alternatives to traditional sourcing destinations.
He asserted that integrated mobility systems with high precision engineering, electronic integration and compliance driven manufacturing will define the future of the bicycle sector. Stressing the importance of machine capability, process discipline and skilled manpower, he said long term partnerships, innovation cycles and consistent product quality are crucial for winning global trust and expanding export footprints.
Thanking the panelists, Principal Secretary, Department of Food Processing Ms. Rakhee Gupta Bhandari appreciated the insights shared by industry leaders and highlighted the importance of continuity, policy support, skill development, safety standards and premium product positioning for sustained sectoral growth. She stressed that evolving consumer aspirations, especially among youth, demand design innovation, technology adoption and diversified applications, including tourism mobility and recreational cycling. She urged industry stakeholders to build a robust platform ecosystem, integrating people, process and product capabilities, to position Punjab as a global leader in next generation cycling solutions.
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*Punjab exploring sustainable growth opportunities in plastics and specialty chemicals sector during Progressive Punjab Investment Summit–2026*
*Innovation, recycling and eco-friendly solutions key to balancing industrial growth and environmental protection: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Punjab emerging as a hub for specialty chemicals through industry–academic collaboration*
Chandigarh/SAS Nagar March 14:During the Progressive Punjab Investment Summit 2026, the Punjab Government highlighted its strong commitment to promoting sustainable industrial growth, innovation and global investment in emerging sectors such as plastics and specialty chemicals.
Addressing the session, Punjab’s Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, said that plastic and chemical products have become an integral part of modern life, supporting several sectors including healthcare, education, household use and industry. She noted that these products have helped reduce manual labour and improved efficiency in day-to-day life.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further said that increased investment in the plastics and chemicals sector would create significant employment opportunities for youth and contribute meaningfully to the social and economic development of the people.
Emphasising responsible usage, the Minister urged industries and research experts to focus on sustainable production systems, advanced recycling technologies and eco-friendly alternatives so that industrial progress goes hand in hand with environmental protection for future generations.
Highlighting the state’s industrial potential, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that Punjab offers strong opportunities for investment in specialty chemicals, plastic recycling and the conversion of plastic waste into higher-value export-oriented products. She encouraged entrepreneurs and innovators to combine scientific research with Punjab’s spirit of innovation and practical ingenuity to develop environmentally sustainable solutions.
She added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is committed to strengthening industrial infrastructure and developing industrial hubs in cities such as Ludhiana and Mohali, thereby creating a conducive ecosystem for research, innovation and sustainable manufacturing.
Priyank Bharti, IAS, Secretary, Science, Technology, Environment, Forests and Wildlife, Punjab, said that with strong industrial clusters, export-oriented enterprises and progressive policies, Punjab is steadily emerging as an important manufacturing base for plastics and chemicals. He added that the state government is encouraging investments in specialty chemicals, eco-friendly materials and sustainable plastic solutions while ensuring strict compliance with environmental standards.
Sagar Kaushik, President (Global Corporate and Industry Affairs), UPL Limited, highlighted the immense growth potential of the chemical sector. He noted that India currently accounts for only about 3–3.5 percent of global chemical production, which could increase to 12–13 percent in the coming years. He further informed that 93 percent of UPL’s production is exported while 7 percent caters to the domestic market, reflecting the vast global opportunities for Indian manufacturing.
Abhi Bansal, Managing Director of Saraswati Agro Chemicals Private Limited, said that Punjab has significant potential to transition from commodity-based chemicals to high-value specialty chemicals. He emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between industry, academic institutions and government to develop advanced products and technologies that can position Punjab more strongly in the global market.
Professor Anoop Verma, Head of the Department of Energy and Environment at Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, highlighted Punjab’s strong academic ecosystem and its ability to support innovation in the specialty chemicals sector. He said that close collaboration between research institutions and industry can accelerate technology development and commercialization, enabling Punjab to emerge as an important centre for advanced chemical manufacturing and innovation.
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*Punjab Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan Condoles Demise of Haryana Speaker’s Mother*
Chandigarh, March 14, 2026:Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker, S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, today expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences following the passing of Smt. Prem Kaur Kalyan, mother of Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Harvinder Kalyan.
In a poignant tribute, Speaker Sandhwan highlighted the irreplaceable role of mothers in shaping lives and careers. "The kindness and unwavering support of a mother are debts we can never fully repay," Sandhwan stated. "Whatever heights we achieve in life are a direct result of the values and blessings bestowed upon us by our parents."
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*PUNJAB INVESTORS’ SUMMIT 2026— HOSPITALS & HEALTHCARE: HEALTH MINISTER DR BALBIR SINGH URGES PRIVATE HOSPITALS TO RESERVE 20% BEDS TO ENSURE INCLUSIVE HEALTHCARE*
*— AAM AADMI CLINICS HELPING BRIDGE RURAL-URBAN HEALTHCARE GAP: DR BALBIR SINGH*
*— PUNJAB GOVERNMENT OFFERS LAND, INCENTIVES AND POLICY SUPPORT FOR HEALTHCARE INVESTMENTS*
CHANDIGARH/MOHALI, March 14:Terming health as the fundamental right and emphasising the need to make quality healthcare accessible to all as desired by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Dr Balbir Singh on Saturday urged private hospitals to reserve at least 20 percent of their beds under government schemes to ensure affordable patient care to all.
Addressing a session titled “Hospitals and Healthcare” on the second day of the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2026, the Minister said stronger collaboration between the government and corporate healthcare providers is essential to ensure universal and equitable healthcare services.
Dr Balbir Singh highlighted the state government’s efforts to reduce disparities in healthcare access between rural and urban areas through the expansion of Aam Aadmi Clinics. “Punjab has established 565 clinics in villages and 318 in urban areas, particularly in underprivileged localities. Our aim is to provide world-class healthcare facilities to the remotest areas across the state,” he said.
Calling upon corporate hospitals to contribute to the vision of universal healthcare Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the Minister said, “At least 20 percent of beds in private hospitals should be reserved for patients who cannot afford treatment. These services need not always be free, as hospitals can receive compensation through government health schemes, ensuring they do not incur losses while supporting the needy.”
Inviting investors to explore opportunities in the health sector, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Kumar Rahul said Punjab offers a conducive ecosystem for healthcare investments, with the government providing land, policy support, incentives and fast-track approvals.
The session featured prominent panelists including Director Homi Bhabha Dr Ashish Gulia, CEO Livasa Hospitals Anurag Yadav, Medical Director Fortis Healthcare Dr Vikramjit Singh Dhaliwal and Senior Interventional Cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals New Delhi Prof Dr Vivek Gupta, while, Sandeep Jha from KPMG was moderating the session.
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Punjab’s Investment Boom: Bhagwant Singh Mann Govt Fuels Heavy Machinery Revolution: Harbhajan Singh ETO
• Punjab has immense potential to manufacture heavy machinery and agricultural apparatus
• Punjab’s industry-friendly policies have infused new energy among investors
Chandigarh/SAS Nagar, March 14-The Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has been successful in creating an investment-friendly environment in the state, said the state’s Public Works Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO while addressing a session on heavy machinery and agricultural equipment organized at Plaksha University here. He said that our government has constituted 25 Sector-Specific Committees to formulate industrial policy, based on whose recommendations the industrial policy has been implemented in the state. He said that the Punjab government is constructing 45,000 kilometers of roads at a cost of Rs. 16,209 crore to provide better road connectivity and is also constructing 4,700 kilometers of greenfield roads.
During this session, experts said that just as Punjab has earlier made a distinction for itself in the field of hosiery and agriculture, it is now showing footprints in the field of heavy apparatus and agricultural machinery manufacturing.
Addressing this session, Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Secretary, Commerce and Industry Department, Punjab, said that the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has formulated the industrial policy as per the needs of each industrial sector with the suggestions of industrial experts.
He said that the state government has provided several benefits to companies to create better industry-friendly conditions.
Addressing the session, Upkar Singh Ahuja, President of CII Ludhiana Chapter, said that Punjab especially Ludhiana was the hub of hosiery industry in 1960 whose excellence was established all over the world, similarly now the Punjab is also the leading state of the country in field of manufacturing heavy machinery and agricultural apparatus.
He said that the Punjab government has decided to incentivise agriculture-related industries, which will give boost to agriculture-related industries. He said that we need a Tool Industry, which will strengthen the industrialization of the state.
Akshay Sangwan from Sonalika Tractor said that Punjab is the third-largest manufacturer in the world in the field of tractor manufacturing but now we need to manufacture agricultural machinery based on the latest technology as per the world’s demand to further reduce costs and dependence on labor.
Speaking about MSMEs, Anil Chaudhary said that we need to bring big corporates like Tata and Reliance to the state, which will give a lot of encouragement to small and medium enterprises.
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PROGRESSIVE PUNJAB INVESTOR SUMMIT - 2026, SESSION : STEEL AND ROLLING MILLS
PUNJAB IS BEST INVESTMENT DESTINATION: CABINET MINISTER BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL
SESSION EMPHASIZED ON POTENTIAL OF PUNJAB TO EMERGE AS STEEL HUB OF NORTH INDIA
Chandigarh/S.A.S. Nagar, March 14:In a session on the Steel and Rolling Mills on the second day of the Progressive Punjab Investor Summit (PPIS) - 2026 being held at Plaksha University, the focus on the discussion centered on how to harness the tremendous potential of Punjab to help it emerge as a Speciality Steel Hub in North India.
The Water Resources, Mines and Geology Minister focussed on the industry and business friendly eco system in Punjab. "You name the need, we would fulfill it", said the Minister adding that the State has received Rs. 1.55 Lakh Crore worth investment during the past 4 years. Not only this but the State exports cycles, pharmaceuticals, biscuit, Basmati Rice and other items to a number of countries. From Woollen Knitwear, to cycle, hand tools and tractor manufacturing, everything is available here in Punjab which makes it the best investment destination.
In her presentation, Principal Secretary Employment Generation, Punjab, Alkananda Dayal brought to fore various incentives to the industrial sector in the new industrial policy such as mega units investing Rs.500 Crore being eligible for customized package, green category industries exempted from routine inspections, electricity duty exemption approval processed within seven days, Single Entry - Single Exit digital platform for approvals which are granted in 45 days.
The Secretary Investment Promotion, Industries & Commerce Gurkirat Kirpal Singh batted for the environment friendly and green energy adoption by the industrial units as it is a worldwide trend.
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