Kovind inaugurates PITEX, hails Punjab’s growth efforts

Former President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, on Friday formally inaugurated the 19th edition of the Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX) in Amritsar and asserted that the state of Punjab is now emerging as a power hub in MSMEs, technology and ease of doing business.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the event organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), in the presence of Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, the former President said, "Once known mainly as the 'bread basket of India', Punjab is now changing rapidly and holds a place of pride in India, as the state is mentioned first in the National Anthem. The state is becoming a power hub in MSMEs, technology and ease of doing business. Beyond agriculture, Punjab has now emerged as a centre for trade, manufacturing, MSME growth and global entrepreneurship," he said

Urging Cheema to invest not just in products but also human capital, he congratulated the minister on the state's progressive policies that facilitate business and trade. Kovind also suggested that the Chamber should expand PITEX outside Punjab. He proposed that a similar event should also be held in New Delhi to give the expo more international reach.

"PITEX has become a historic platform that connects domestic and international businesses, promotes cross-border partnerships and strengthens economic ties. This expo is not just a business exhibition," he added.

Kovind expressed happiness over the strong participation of MSMEs, start-ups, women entrepreneurs and artisans at the expo.

Meanwhile, welcoming Kovind on behalf of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Cheema said the CM is currently on a tour of Japan and South Korea to attract investment for industrial growth. Cheema informed that Punjab has received investment worth Rs one lakh crore since 2022. PHDCCI Punjab Chair Karan Gilhotra said that six states and four countries including Iran, Afghanistan, Egypt and Thailand are participating in PITEX 2025 edition.