CICU Highlights MSME Strength and Centre of Excellence at Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2026

Ludhiana, March 16, 2026: The Chamber of Industrial & Commercial Undertakings (CICU) marked its active presence at the prestigious Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2026 organized by Invest Punjab The focused session on “Heavy Machinery and Agri Implements – Managing Capital Intensive Manufacturing: Investment and Localisation in Heavy Machinery” brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and manufacturing experts to deliberate on strengthening Punjab’s industrial ecosystem.
During the policy context setting, Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Administrative Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Government of Punjab, outlined the state government’s vision for industrial growth, emphasizing investment promotion, localisation of manufacturing, and strengthening the supply chain ecosystem to position Punjab as a competitive manufacturing hub.
Representing the voice of MSMEs in the panel discussion, Upkar Singh Ahuja, President of CICU and Managing Director of New Swan Group, shared valuable insights on the role of micro, small and medium industries in supporting heavy machinery and agri-implement manufacturing. He emphasized that Punjab has a strong base of engineering MSMEs which can significantly contribute to localization, innovation, and strengthening the vendor ecosystem for large industries.
Mr. Ahuja also highlighted CICU’s pioneering initiative — the Centre of Excellence (COE) — developed to empower industries through advanced technology support, modern testing facilities, skill development programs, and knowledge-driven industry initiatives. He elaborated on the various activities being undertaken by the COE to help MSMEs upgrade technology, improve quality standards, and become globally competitive.
The panel also featured Akshay Sangwan, COO of International Tractors Limited, who discussed the growing opportunities in the tractor and heavy machinery sector and emphasized the importance of a strong vendor base and localized manufacturing to drive sustainable growth.
The session concluded with an inspiring special address by Harbhajan Singh, ETO - Cabinet Minister, Department of Public Works (PWD) & B&R, Government of Punjab, who appreciated the role of industry bodies in supporting economic growth and assured continued government support for strengthening Punjab’s industrial and infrastructure ecosystem.
The initiatives and activities of CICU’s Centre of Excellence generated significant interest among participants, policymakers, and industry leaders, many of whom expressed excitement and appreciation for the impactful work being undertaken to empower MSMEs and strengthen the manufacturing sector.
CICU’s participation in the summit reaffirmed its commitment to representing industry on key platforms, driving innovation, and working closely with government and industry stakeholders to accelerate the growth of Punjab’s manufacturing economy.