PITEX draws 3.5 lakh visitors as Governor Kataria pushes Make in India vision

Asserting that businessmen and industrialists play a major role in the state’s growth and urging them to collaborate with startups, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria said such partnerships would strengthen India’s manufacturing sector and boost the Make in India campaign.

Speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the 19th PHDCCI PITEX fair on Monday, the Governor praised industry leaders, exhibitors, foreign delegates, and visitors for contributing to the event’s success. He said PITEX has evolved into an important platform for trade, business networking, and economic cooperation.

“In the last few years, PITEX has grown into a trusted event that connects Punjab’s business community with markets across the globe,” he said. The expo, he added, reflects the energy and determination of Punjab’s entrepreneurs. Punjab’s strengths lie in agriculture, manufacturing, small industries, handicrafts, and emerging sectors. The state now has strong prospects in high-value manufacturing, food processing, textiles, renewable energy, and modern services.

“With skilled workers, strategic location, and a business-friendly environment, Punjab is an attractive destination for investors,” the Governor noted. He expressed satisfaction at the participation of small businesses, women entrepreneurs, and young startups. “They are the backbone of our economic growth and represent the innovation and ambition that will shape India’s future,” he said.

PHDCCI Chairman (Punjab Chapter) Karan Gilhotra said PITEX began in 2005 with just 50 stalls. “This year, more than 550 business participants joined the fair. If we had more space, even more exhibitors would have taken part,” he added.

Senior Regional Director Bharti Sood presented the roadmap for upcoming PHDCCI events in Chandigarh and Punjab to the Governor.

Despite space constraints, the five-day fair attracted more than 3.5 lakh visitors, an increase from last year’s 3.43 lakh. Seventeen state departments, including Markfed, PSIEC, Invest Punjab, and Startup Punjab, participated.