FTII and NTWB hosts the All-Odisha Business Summit, UTKARSH 2026

By Tapaswini Sahoo

Bhubaneswar/ Odisha, June 29 : The All-Odisha Business Summit – “UTKARSH 2026”, jointly organized by the Federation of Trade and Industry of India (FTII) in association with the National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB), Government of India, was successfully held today at Hotel Lemon Tree Premier, Bhubaneswar.

The summit was graced by Hon’ble Chief Guest Shri Sunil J. Singhi, Chairman, National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB), Government of India, Guest of Honours Dr. Sanjay Bansal, National President, FTII; Dr. Prabodh Mohanty, Managing Director, SNM Group; Shri Ajay Agarwal, Chairman & Managing Director, EestellaLogmin LLP; Shri Raj Kumar Khandelwal; and Shri Saket Aggarwal, along with representatives from trade bodies, chambers of commerce, industry associations, entrepreneurs, MSME owners, and officials of the National Traders Welfare Board.

Highlighting the Government of India’s continued efforts to create a business-friendly environment through policy reforms and simplification of rules, Sunil J. Singhi, Chairman, National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB), Government of India, said, “Utkarsh symbolises progress and growth, and I am confident that this conclave will make a meaningful contribution to India’s holistic development. Simultaneously, the government is fostering a supportive ecosystem for traders, entrepreneurs, and businesses through progressive policies, improved access to finance, and proactive measures to address their concerns. I appreciate FTII for its commitment to empowering the trading community and urge all stakeholders to work together to drive economic growth and realise the vision of a developed India.”

The summit was also attended by Ajay Agarwal,Chairman & Managing Director, EestellaLogmin LLP, said, “Shri Sunil J. Singhi has consistently been a strong voice for traders, serving as a vital bridge between the trading community and the government. We are grateful to Shri 6Singhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for creating a dedicated platform where traders can raise their concerns. The objective of this conclave is to create awareness among grassroots traders about their rights and their crucial role in India’s development. Let us join hands and work together towards building a stronger and more prosperous nation.”

Dr. Sanjay Bansal, National President, FTII, said, “I congratulate Shri Sunil J. Singhi, Chairman of the National Traders’ Welfare Board, for his dedicated efforts towards the welfare of traders. The Board has played a significant role in addressing traders’ concerns and advancing their interests. At FTII, we remain committed to strengthening and empowering traders through collective efforts. Therefore, I urge traders to join hands with FTII and work together for the sector’s growth and empowerment.”

Dr. Prabodh Mohanty, Managing Director, SNM Group said, “Odisha has emerged as a key driver of India’s growth. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Odisha for Viksit Bharat 2047’ aims to transform the state into a USD 1.5 trillion economy by 2047. Realising this vision requires collective efforts from not just traders, but every sector. Platforms like Utkarsh Odisha play a vital role in attracting investors, traders, and entrepreneurs, making Odisha a preferred destination for investment and sustainable economic growth.”

During the summit, experts explained recent regulatory reforms aimed at simplifying compliance procedures, reducing transaction costs, and making it easier for businesses to operate and expand. Participants were also provided practical guidance on how traders, SMEs, and industry associations can take advantage of the new government initiatives and incentives.

The interactive sessions encouraged open discussions between government representatives and business leaders on the challenges faced in implementing policies at the local level. Participants shared their suggestions and experiences, helping identify practical solutions to improve the business ecosystem in Odisha.

The summit also served as an important networking platform, enabling entrepreneurs, traders, industry experts, and policymakers to exchange ideas and build partnerships for future growth. Participants expressed confidence that the knowledge shared during the event would help businesses adapt to the changing regulatory environment and contribute to the state’s economic development.

Through UTKARSH 2026, the organizers and the representatives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting trade and industry through awareness, collaboration, and continuous engagement with stakeholders.