Bengaluru, August 17, 2023 – The much-anticipated 19th edition of the CII India Innovation Summit 2023 has kicked off with great fervor. The summit, under the theme “Impacting Global Agenda through Local Innovation,” promises to be a vibrant platform for exploring the dynamics of innovation within India and its profound impact on the global stage. The event is scheduled to take place from August 17th to 19th at the prestigious Hotel Hilton Manyata Park in Bengaluru.
The summit, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), is a significant annual gathering that brings together thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, and industry pioneers to engage in insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. This year’s theme reflects the growing recognition of India’s role in shaping the global innovation landscape.
The event was inaugurated by the Chairman of CII Karnataka State Council and Managing Director of Kennametal India Ltd, Mr. Vijaykrishnan Venkatesan. In his welcome address, he highlighted the importance of innovation in driving economic growth and creating a sustainable future. The Chairman of CII India Innoverge 2023, Mr. Kris Gopalakrishnan, also addressed the audience. He is not only a Past President of CII but also the Chairman of Axilor Ventures and Co-Founder of Infosys Ltd, a pioneering company in the Indian IT sector. Mr. Gopalakrishnan emphasized the need for local innovation to have a global impact, aligning perfectly with the summit’s theme.
The summit was graced by Mr. Kamal Bali, Chairman of CII Southern Region and President & Managing Director of Volvo Group India Pvt Ltd. Mr. Bali delivered a special address, shedding light on the significance of collaboration and partnerships in fostering innovation and driving sustainable growth.
A key highlight of the event was the Keynote Address by Mr. Priyank Kharge, the Hon’ble Minister for Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayati Raj of the Government of Karnataka. Mr. Kharge’s insights into the role of technology and innovation in transforming rural areas were thought-provoking. The Inaugural Address by Mr. D K Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, underscored the state’s commitment to fostering an innovative ecosystem.
The event was also graced by esteemed personalities such as Ms. Gunjan Krishna, IAS Commissioner for Industrial Development, Department of Commerce & Industries, Government of Karnataka. She delivered a Keynote Address that focused on the Indian manufacturing sector’s efforts to create a global impact through innovation. The automotive and transportation industry was also highlighted, with Mr. Srivats Ram, Vice Chairman of CII Tamil Nadu Council and Managing Director of Wheels India Ltd, delivering a Keynote Address on the subject.
The aerospace and space sector found its spotlight with a Special Address by Mr. Sudheer Kumar N, Director of Capacity Building & Public Outreach at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Mr. Sudheer Kumar N’s insights shed light on India’s strides in the field of space technology and its potential for innovation.
The summit also included the prestigious Cult Innovator Award, which celebrates individuals, teams, and organizations that have harnessed the power of innovation to create positive change. This award recognizes the visionaries who have turned challenges into opportunities. Notable attendees included Dr. S Selva Kumar, IAS Principal Secretary of the Department of Commerce & Industries & PWD, Government of Karnataka, and Mr. M B Patil, Hon’ble Minister of Large & Medium Scale Industries & Infrastructure Development, Government of Karnataka.
The summit came to a close with a cultural program that captured the spirit of innovation and inclusivity. “Unleashing the Flute and Beatboxing Brilliance” featured visually impaired performers associated with the Bangalore-based Sunadha band. This performance, in collaboration with Atypical Advantage, India’s largest inclusive platform for economic empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, beautifully concluded the event on a note of creativity, resilience, and unity.
As the CII India Innovation Summit 2023 drew to a close, it left participants inspired by the potential of local innovation to drive global change. The discussions, addresses, and interactions showcased India’s determination to embrace innovation as a means to create a brighter future for all.
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