The Industry Conclave 2020, organized on 7 December 2020 at Hotel Taj View, Agra, emerged as a landmark platform for constructive dialogue between the Government, industry, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. The conclave was conceived with the objective of addressing the key challenges faced by industry while identifying new opportunities for economic growth, infrastructure development, investment promotion, and industrial competitiveness in the Agra region.

The event was graced by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri (IFS), Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, and Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. The conclave was also attended by Shri Chaudhary Udaybhan Singh, Hon’ble Minister for MSME, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Member of Parliament, along with senior government officials, industrialists, exporters, entrepreneurs, business associations, policy experts, and representatives from various sectors.

The conclave served as a high-level interface between the Government and the business community, enabling entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders to engage directly with Union and State leadership. Through open discussions and interactive sessions, participants highlighted the opportunities and policy interventions required to accelerate industrial development, improve ease of doing business, and strengthen the competitiveness of local enterprises.

Addressing the conclave, Mr. Puran Dawar, Chairman of the Corporate Council for Leadership and Awareness (CCLA) and President of the Agra Footwear Manufacturers & Exporters Chamber (AFMEC), emphasized that sustained industrial growth depends on progressive policies, technological innovation, and close collaboration between government and industry. He urged policymakers to create a business-friendly environment that supports MSMEs, encourages investment, and enhances global competitiveness. Reaffirming CCLA’s commitment, he stated that continuous policy dialogue and industry participation are essential to building a stronger, resilient, and future-ready industrial ecosystem.

One of the most significant highlights of the conclave was the comprehensive presentation of Agra’s industrial priorities before the Union Minister. Representatives from the footwear, leather, manufacturing, export, and MSME sectors raised critical issues concerning industrial infrastructure, environmental regulations, logistics, investment facilitation, and long-term policy support. Special emphasis was placed on the development and modernization of Agra’s globally recognized footwear industry, which plays a vital role in employment generation and exports.

The conclave also witnessed extensive discussions on several long-standing regional concerns, including matters related to the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), National Green Tribunal (NGT) regulations, industrial expansion, infrastructure development, and the need for balanced environmental and economic policies that support sustainable industrial growth.

Another major agenda of the event was strengthening Agra’s connectivity and economic infrastructure. Industry representatives strongly advocated for enhanced civil aviation facilities and improved air connectivity to support tourism, trade, exports, and investment. Responding positively to these concerns, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri assured stakeholders that efforts were being made to strengthen aviation infrastructure and expressed confidence regarding the commencement and expansion of air services from Agra, recognizing their importance for the city’s economic development.

The conclave provided a unique opportunity for industry leaders to present practical recommendations directly before policymakers, encouraging transparent communication and collaborative problem-solving. Discussions also focused on MSME development, export promotion, industrial modernization, infrastructure enhancement, skill development, and creating a more business-friendly ecosystem capable of attracting new investments.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from entrepreneurs, exporters, manufacturers, industry associations, professionals, financial institutions, and government representatives, making it one of the most significant industry-policy interactions organized in the region during the year.

More than just a conference, Industry Conclave 2020 became a catalyst for constructive engagement between government and industry. It reinforced the importance of collaborative policymaking, highlighted Agra’s industrial aspirations on a national platform, and strengthened the shared commitment towards sustainable industrial development, enhanced infrastructure, improved connectivity, and a globally competitive business environment.

The conclave laid a strong foundation for future industry-government collaboration and continues to be recognized as a milestone initiative that amplified the voice of Agra’s industrial community while contributing to the broader vision of economic growth, investment promotion, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.  CCLA General Secretary Ajay Sharma and Convener Brajesh Sharma extended a ceremonial welcome to the distinguished dignitaries, marking the formal commencement of the conclave.