Chandigarh: The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) organized a Conclave on Skilling for the MSME Sector in Punjab, bringing together senior government officials, industry leaders, and academic experts to deliberate on strategies for strengthening the skilling ecosystem and enhancing employability through MSMEs. The programme was held at Hotel Mountview, Chandigarh.
Hon’ble Minister Shri Sanjeev Arora, Cabinet Minister for Industry & Commerce, IT, and Investment Promotion, Government of Punjab, inaugurated the conclave and appreciated ASSOCHAM for initiating a meaningful and timely dialogue. He emphasized that basic education and skill development are the twin foundations of progress, adding that learning must extend beyond classrooms through practical exposure and hands-on experience. Mr. Abhi Bansal, Chairman, ASSOCHAM Punjab State Development Council,Mr. Rakesh Bhalla, Chairman, ASSOCHAM Chandigarh UT Council, Mr. Drishmeet Buttar, Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM Chandigarh UT Development CouncilMr and Iqbal Cheema, Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM Punjab State Development Council were present on the occasion.
Highlighting Punjab’s immense potential, Shri Arora stated that the state is witnessing growing opportunities across MSME, Defence, and Automotive sectors. He stressed the need to bridge the gap between education and employability, pointing out that confidence and applied learning are equally vital for youth entering the workforce. The Minister added that MSMEs, which contribute nearly 30% to India’s employment, remain the backbone of the national economy, and Punjab’s MSME sector—particularly in textiles, food processing, auto, and defence manufacturing—is driving innovation and sustainable employment.
Encouraging stronger collaboration between academia and industry, the Minister underlined the pivotal role of ITIs and skill training centres in preparing youth for emerging sectors like semiconductors, electronics, and advanced manufacturing. He called upon all stakeholders to work collectively toward making Punjab a hub of skilled manpower and innovation-driven entrepreneurship.
Ms. Seema Bansal, Vice-Chairperson, Punjab Development Commission, thanked ASSOCHAM for organizing the conclave and emphasized the importance of sustained coordination between the government, academia, and industry to strengthen the state’s skill ecosystem.
Mr. Abhi Bansal, Chairman, ASSOCHAM Punjab State Development Council, welcomed the Hon’ble Minister and shared that the conclave aims to bridge the gap between skill providers and industries. He reaffirmed ASSOCHAM’s commitment to aligning Punjab’s skill development roadmap with its industrial growth vision.
Mr. Rakesh Bhalla, Chairman, ASSOCHAM Chandigarh UT Council, shared the industry perspective, noting that MSMEs in auto components, EVs, food processing, and defence are creating new opportunities for innovation and employment. He emphasized that skill development remains the cornerstone of industrial progress and urged for greater alignment between training programs and industry needs.
Mr. Drishmeet Buttar, Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM Chandigarh UT Development Council, delivered the thematic address on Skilling and MSMEs, stating that Punjab’s young workforce, if equipped with the right skills and mentorship, can become a major driver of India’s manufacturing growth. He encouraged MSMEs to integrate digital and technical skills into their operations and adopt mentorship-driven models to nurture local talent.
Mr. Iqbal Cheema, Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM Punjab State Development Council, proposed the vote of thanks, reaffirming ASSOCHAM’s continued partnership with the government in advancing Punjab’s MSME ecosystem.
Maj. Gen. Dr. R.S. Mann, VSM (Retd.), Director General, C-PYTE, Government of Punjab, underscored the importance of strong linkages between industry and training institutions, while Shri Rajat Bhatnagar, North Head – NSDC International, highlighted Punjab’s growing potential in global skilling and workforce development.
The conclave concluded with a shared commitment to empower youth, strengthen MSMEs, and promote inclusive industrial growth through collaborative efforts between the government, academia, and industry.