By Kerala’s commitment to fostering industrial growth was reaffirmed by Dr. R. Bindu, Minister for Higher Education, who emphasized the government’s continued focus on strengthening the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Speaking at the International MSME Day celebrations, Dr. Bindu highlighted that this priority has significantly contributed to the state’s industrial progress.
The event was jointly organised by Metro Mart, the Trivandrum Chamber of Commerce, and the Kerala Small Industries Association (KSSIA), with the support of the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC). Siji Nair, Managing Director of Metro Media, welcomed the chief guest and other dignitaries to the gathering.
Held under the theme “Business for MSMEs – Connecting the Entrepreneurs,” the event featured a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Harishanker A. G. from Machine Maker. The seminar was formally inaugurated by A. Nisarudheen, State President of KSSIA.
The panel included prominent industry leaders such as Stephen Devnathan, Secretary General of FIA; S. Adikesavan, former Chief General Manager of State Bank of India; P. Ganesh, Past Chairman of CII Kerala and Executive Director of Glass and Glazing Systems Pvt. Ltd.; Yogi Shivan, Managing Director of Indimasi Healing Village; C. Suresh Kumar, General Secretary of CISS; B. Jayakrishnan, State Treasurer of KSSIA; Sudheer Kumar B., National Working Committee Member and State Patron of LUB; and S. Jyothis Chandran, Chairman of Jyothis Group of Schools. The session was presided over by Kadakampally Surendran, MLA.
Distinguished guests including M. Vincent, MLA; E. M. Najeeb, President of the Confederation of Kerala Tourism Industry; M. Srivatsan, Senior Manager and Zonal Head of NSIC Chennai; and Grace Reji, NSIC Kerala Branch Manager, also graced the occasion.
A highlight of the ceremony was the felicitation of outstanding entrepreneurs. Venpakal Chandramohan, Chairman of Venpakal Group of Companies, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award, which included a cash prize of ₹1 lakh and a citation, in recognition of his invaluable contributions to Kerala’s industrial sector.
