Kolkata, November 3, 2025 

 

Shri Om Birla, Hon’ble Speaker of the Lok Sabha, today inaugurated India@100: An Age of a New Dawn, a commemorative initiative celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Bharat Chamber of Commerce, at a distinguished gathering held in Kolkata. The event brought together eminent personalities from industry,  reflecting India’s economic progress and its aspirations as the nation moves towards the centenary of Independence.

Addressing the occasion, Shri Birla highlighted the role of the Chamber’s former leaders in enriching India’s industrial and service sectors, recalling their pioneering contributions to the nation’s socio-economic growth. He expressed keen interest in the Chamber’s journey during the pre-Independence era, particularly in the context of Kolkata’s historic position as a leading industrial and cultural centre of erstwhile India. Describing the Bharat Chamber of Commerce as an inspiration to other chambers across the country, Shri Birla lauded its steadfast commitment to the common good and its pioneering role in promoting corporate social responsibility. He noted that India’s remarkable transformation across social and commercial spheres, even in today's turbulent times, stands as a testament to the vision and perseverance of its business community.

The Speaker underscored that India’s democracy rests not merely in its institutions but in its heritage and in the hearts of its people. He remarked that each election since 1952 has witnessed growing public participation, reaffirming faith in democratic ideals. Emphasising that India’s diversity remains its greatest strength, Shri Birla observed that the nation has emerged as a haven for global investors owing to its robust democratic practices and transparent governance. Citing the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Speaker noted the government’s commitment to ensuring minimum government to reduce red tapes, and enabling industrial growth. He encouraged India’s private sector to match international standards in investment in research and development, while lauding the Prime Minister’s pledge to complement this investment to make India a global leader in innovation.

Other distinguished speakers at the event included Shri Naresh Pachisia, President, Bharat Chamber of Commerce; Shri H. M. Bangur, Chief Patron, Bharat Chamber of Commerce; and Dr. N. G. Khaitan, Chairman, 125th Anniversary Celebrations Committee.

Founded in 1900, the Bharat Chamber of Commerce stands among the oldest and most respected apex trade bodies of Eastern India. Over the past one hundred and twenty five years, it has served as a vital bridge between industry and policy, fostering trade, entrepreneurship, and social advancement across the region and the nation.

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