Ahmedabad: The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), a trailblazer in India’s business sector, is thrilled to announce its Centenary Celebrations, commemorating a remarkable 100 years of service. This significant milestone was celebrated in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on December 18, 2024, after the grand inaugural events in Kolkata on December 15, 2024.
Founded in 1925 by the visionary Shri G.D. Birla, the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) arose from India’s nationalist movement, demonstrating a strong dedication to nation-building. Over the last century, ICC has transformed into a leading advocate for Indian industry, expanding from its origins in Kolkata to a nationwide influence while promoting global trade and investment opportunities. The last 100 years have played a crucial role in boosting Indian exports, supporting local businesses, encouraging long-term investments at both interstate and intrastate levels, delivering valuable policy insights, and nurturing start-ups by facilitating export orders and providing capital injection.
Today, it proudly features a strong network of 15 regional offices throughout India and representation in 25 countries worldwide. ICC’s domestic footprint has grown significantly, reaching from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Tripura to Gujarat, with new offices established in states such as Rajasthan, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, and Kerala. Looking forward, ICC is committed to enhancing its national presence and connecting with vital global growth centers, thereby reinforcing its position as a catalyst for progress.
ICC has been instrumental in enhancing collaborations between India and its Asian neighbors, broadening its network through national and international memorandums of understanding with industry associations and key stakeholders. Our involvement in global platforms such as BIMSTEC, APAC, and IMEC is continually expanding. The centenary celebrations showcase ICC’s enduring legacy of transformative change. As Indian businesses have progressed, ICC has evolved as well, engaging in effective policy advocacy and gaining significant recognition within government circles.
Mr. Pathik Patwari, Chairman of ICC Gujarat Council, remarked on the occasion “The Indian Chamber of Commerce has always stood for inclusive growth and nation-building. As we celebrate this historic milestone, we are determined to carry forward our legacy with renewed vigour, embracing the challenges and opportunities of the next century. Gujarat, as a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit, is the perfect destination to continue this commemoration.”
Adding to the sentiments, Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General of ICC, said: “The Centenary Celebrations symbolize not just a reflection on our remarkable journey but a rededication to the values of innovation, integrity, and enterprise that define ICC. Taking this celebration from Kolkata to Gujarat underscores our mission to connect India’s diverse economic hubs while strengthening our role in shaping India’s growth story.”
The ICC delegation engaged with brilliant thinkers at the state’s startup and innovation hub, iHub. They held discussions aimed at implementing new inventions, giving startups a vital Launchpad for their growth. The day concluded with an unforgettable session on the ‘Shubh Labh Model of Business,’ presented by the esteemed mythologist and author, Devdutt Pattanaik, who provided a distinctive viewpoint on culture, leadership, and storytelling.