Over 250 firms showcase emergeing technologies at Intex Expo 2026

State Cabinet Minister for Industries, Commerce and Local Government, Sanjeev Arora, today visited Intex Expo 2026 at Ludhiana Exhibition Centre, Sahnewal, where more than 250 leading companies showcased advanced construction materials, technologies and finished products. The event was jointly organised by the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA) – Punjab Chapter and the Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI).

The minister, along with Town and Village Planning Department Director Neeru Katyal Gupta and chapter Chairman Pankaj Bawa also inaugurated the ‘Saanjh 2.0’ programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp. The programme was jointly organised by ITPI Punjab and IIA Punjab to strengthen collaboration between planners and architects.

Addressing the gathering, Arora said that such exhibitions significantly benefitted Punjab’s industry by facilitating technology exchange and knowledge sharing. He stated that Punjab was witnessing a strong investment momentum, adding that investment in the state had doubled, and more major investments were expected over the next three months.

He highlighted that Punjab had recently been recognised by the Government of India as a top performer in the startup ecosystem, and had earlier received national recognition for ease of doing business.

The conference saw participation from senior town planners, district town planners, architects and professionals from across Punjab. Two parallel exhibitions titled “Pachan” and “Amanat” showcased over 250 high-quality professional entries, which were widely appreciated. Arora announced cash awards of Rs 50,000, Rs 30,000 and Rs 20,000 for the best exhibition entries.

Arora emphasised the importance of architects’ active cooperation in the successful implementation of the Self-Certification System for Building Plan Approvals. In response, Architect Pal Singh Ahluwalia, Chairman, IIA Punjab Chapter and Director, Ludhiana Smart City, assured full support from the architectural fraternity.

A delegation of 30 small furniture industrialists from Madhya Pradesh, led by Anil Thagle, Nodal Officer RAMP and Chief General Manager, Small Industries Corporation of Madhya Pradesh, met the minister. Arora invited them to explore industrial investment opportunities in Punjab and expressed his strong association with the industrial sector of Madhya Pradesh.

Interacting with the media, Arora informed that a new exhibition centre was being developed at the Punjab Agro site on the Jalandhar Bypass. He added that Halwara Airport was fully ready and would be operational soon after completion of remaining technical formalities, for which the state government was actively coordinating with the Centre.