KCCI - KCCI

March – April – May 2026

by KCCI | May 30, 2026 | Chamber at work

CHAMBER AT WORK : MARCH – APRIL – MAY 2026
02-03-2026	–	5.00 p. m.	–	Volkswagen launched the new brand, Tayron R-Line at Bharath Vehicle Works Pvt. Ltd., show room in Mangaluru. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President, KCCI was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
07-03-2026	–	10.00 a. m.	–	An Awareness Program on the MSME Design Scheme (offering government support up to ₹40 lakh) was organized by the Centre for System Design (CSD), NITK Surathkal, Ministry of MSME, in collaboration with KCCI, to help MSMEs leverage design for innovation and value addition. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, delivered the Presidential Address. Dr. Bijuna C. Mohan, Coordinator and Implementing Agency Representative of the Ministry of MSME – NITK, Prof. K. V. Gangadharan, Coordinator – CSD, NITK, Shri Vedha Prakash, Industrial Designer, Aktis Engineering Solutions, Bengaluru, and Smt. Sruthi G. K, Assistant Director, MSME Development & Facilitation Office (DFO), Mangaluru, addressed the gathering. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Rahul Sivarajan, Coordinator – Awareness Program on Design, NITK, with active participation from MSME members.
09-03-2026	–	10.30 a. m.	–	A meeting on District Skill Development Plan (DSDP) for the year 2025-26 was held at Netravathi Hall, Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat, Mangaluru. Shri Harisha C P., Nodal Officer, DSDP presented the outline of the project. Shri Gokuldas Nayak, Joint Director, District Industries Centre (DIC), Mangaluru and other dignitaries were present on stage. Representatives of various associations attended the meeting. KCCI was represented by Shri Mytreya A, Chief Operating Officer.
		3:30 p. m.	–	The Office of the Commissioner of Central Excise & Central Tax (GST), Mangaluru organized a SAMVAD programme with stakeholders of the hospitality industry (Hotels, Restaurants and Resorts) to discuss the impact of recent GST rate changes, GST 2.0 reforms and the effect of recent judicial pronouncements on the industry at their Conference Hall, Trade Centre, Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Shri S. Keshava Narayana Reddy, Commissioner, Central Excise and Central Tax, Mangaluru. CA Kesava N. Ballakuraya, Chairman – Indirect Tax Committee – KCCI and Shri M. Ganesh Bhat, Member, Indirect Tax Committee – KCCI, represented KCCI.
		4.00 p. m.	–	A consultative meeting was convened at the Board room of New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), Administrative Building, Mangaluru to discuss the escalating geopolitical tensions and the resulting impact on shipping routes (Strait of Hormuz), increased freight surcharges and supply chain delays. The meeting was chaired by Smt. S. Shanthi, Dy. Chairperson, NMPA. KCCI was represented by Shri Jeethan Allen Sequeira, Hon. Secretary.
11-03-2026	–	3.30 p. m.	–	The First Meeting of the Railway Sub-Committee of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at the Conference Room of KCCI. The meeting was chaired by Shri Rammohan Pai Maroor, Chairman, Railways sub-committee of KCCI. The meeting was attended by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary- KCCI and Shri M. Ahmed Bawa, member of the committee and the nominated member from KCCI representing Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee (DRUCC).
14-03-2026	–	7.00 p. m.	–	Young Indiana (Yi) organized a YIBE session with Shri Jai Krishnan, CEO, India – Samsonite as the speaker at Pilikula Golf Course, Mangaluru. Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President-KCCI attended the event.
18-03-2026	–	10.00 a. m.	–	Mysuru Division-level Stakeholders Consultation Workshop on Karnataka MSME Policy was held at Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheswara Institute for Management Development, Mysuru. The inaugural address was addressed by Dr. Sateesha B.C., IAS, Director (MSME), Department of Industries and Commerce, Govt. of Karnataka. KCCI was represented by Shri Mytreya A, Chief Operating Officer.
23-03-2026	–	3.00 p. m.	–	The 𝟮𝟱^th 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗲 (𝗣𝗧𝗙𝗖) 𝗺𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 was held at the Conference Hall New Customs House, Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Ms. P. Vinitha Sekhar, IRS, Commissioner of Customs, Mangaluru. KCCI was represented by Shri Mytreya A, Chief Operating Officer.
		5.00 p. m.	–	The Second Meeting of the KCCI Conclave – 2026 Sub-Committee of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President and Chairman of the committee. The meeting was attended by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President, Directors, CA Nandagopal Shenoy, Shri Vincent Cutinha, Shri B. A. Nazeer, Ms. M. Athmika Amin, Shri Sujir Prasad Nayak and Past Presidents, CA Ananthesh V. Prabhu and Shri M. Ganesh Kamath.
26-03-2026	–	3.00 p. m.	–	Dakshina Kannada District’s Single Window meeting was held at the Conference Hall of the Office of Deputy Commissioner, Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Shri Darshan H. V., IAS., Deputy Commissioner, Dakshina Kannada District. Shri Gokuldas Nayak, Joint Director, District Industries Centre, Mangaluru was also present in the meeting. KCCI was represented by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI.
		4.00 p. m.	–	Dakshina Kannada District’s Kaigarika Spandana meeting was held at the Conference Hall of the Office of Deputy Commissioner, Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Shri Darshan H. V., IAS., Deputy Commissioner, Dakshina Kannada District. Shri Gokuldas Nayak, Joint Director, District Industries Centre, Mangaluru was also present in the meeting. KCCI was represented by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI.
27-03-2026	–	10.30 a. m.	–	The Regional Division of the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), Mangaluru organized a virtual meeting with seafood exporters of Karnataka and Goa. The meeting focused on key industry issues and policy updates. Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, KCCI Director attended the meeting.
		6.00 p. m.	–	Executive Committee Meeting of CEOL was held at CEOL. The meeting was chaired by Shri Raju K., KAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) – Dakshina Kannada district. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President, KCCI attended the meeting.
29-03-2026	–	5.30 p. m.	–	Puttur Chamber of Commerce and Industries organized the grand celebration of Puttur Shopping Habba & Family Get Together at Puttur Co-operative Town Bank Hall, Puttur. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI was the Chief Guest on the occasion. Shri Balaram Acharya, Prop. GL Acharya Jewellers and Shri Gilbert D’Souza, Prop. Souza Aluminium were the guests on the occasion. Shri Ravi Krishna D. Kallaje, President – Puttur Chamber of Commerce and Industries and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
08-04-2026	–	7.15 p. m.	–	The First Meeting of the Board of Directors of KCCI for the financial year 2026-27 and the Seventh Meeting of the Committee was convened at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President, KCCI chaired the meeting in the presence of other Office Bearers and Directors.
11-04-2026	–	10.00 a. m.	–	Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) organized a daylong session on Managing Family Conflict – Navigating Differences and Disagreements by Dr. N. Krishnan, Family Business Advisor at Hotel Vivanta, Mangaluru. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President- KCCI, Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, Director – KCCI attended the event.
17-04-2026	–	11.00 a. m.	–	The 87^th meeting of the Board of Directors of Mangalore SEZ Limited was held at the Conference Room, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), New Delhi. Shri P. B Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI attended the same. Shri Vivek Chandrakant Tongaonkar, Chairman – MSEZL and Director Finance – ONGC, Shri BHV Prasad, Nominee Director – MSEZL and Executive Director Projects – MRPL, Shri Ashok Kumar, Executive Director, Marketing – ONGC and Nominee Director – MSEZL, Shri ISN Prasad, Independent Director – MSEZL, Shri Yogish Nayak, Nominee Director and CFO – ONGC, Smt Nalini Padmanabhan, Independent Director, MSEZL and Audit Committee Chairperson – MSEZL, Shri Suryanarayana, CEO – MSEZL and CS Phani Bhushan, MSEZL were present. Few Board members attended virtually.
22-04-2026	–	10.30 a. m.	–	Karnataka Maritime Board conducted a Stakeholder Consultation Meeting at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru as part of conceptualizing and implementing various Public-Private partnership (PPP) projects in Mangaluru region. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President-KCCI, Shri Jeethan Allen Sequeira, Hon. Secretary-KCCI and Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, Director – KCCI attended the event.
25-04-2026	–	10.30 a. m.	–	KCCI President, Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar attended the FKCCI Global Agri-Tech Summit 2026 at Palace Grounds, Bengaluru.
28-04-2026	–	12.30 p. m.	–	27^th Permanent Trade Facilitation Committee (PTFC) meeting, and Sectoral meeting on the topic, ‘On-going challenges / issues faced in FAG 1 & 1A’ was held in hybrid mode. The meeting was chaired by Smt. Vinitha Sekhar, IRS, Commissioner of Customs, Mangaluru. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI attended the meeting virtually.
29-04-2026	–	7.15 p. m.	–	KCCI organized a Large Scale Industry Leaders’ Forum at the Mangalore Club. The event brought together representatives from large-scale industries across the region for an interactive session focused on addressing key industrial concerns and opportunities. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament, Dakshina Kannada District. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI delivered the welcome address. CA Abdur Rahman Musba, Chairman of the Large Industries Committee and Hon. Treasurer of KCCI, briefed delegates on the Chamber’s initiatives and strategic development priorities for the district. Shri Jeethan Allen Sequeira, Hon. Secretary and Chairman of the EXIM Cell, spoke about the transformation of NH-75, once a major bottleneck connecting Mangaluru to Bengaluru via Shiradi Ghat. Recognising the challenges of executing infrastructure projects in the difficult Shiradi Ghat terrain, several key contributors were felicitated by KCCI in the presence of Hon’ble MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Shri Nandakumar Pillai, Director Refineries, MPRL and Capt. Manoj Joshi, Dy. Conservator, NMPA, for their exemplary service: · Shri Praveen Kumar, former Project Director, Hassan Division. · Shri Syed Amanullah, Project Director, Hassan Division. · Shri Abdulla Javed Azmi, General Manager (Tech) & Project Director, Mangaluru Division. A special felicitation was accorded to Shri Nownith Kumar, Consultant, JSW Mangalore Container Terminal Pvt. Ltd., for his outstanding on-ground coordination and commitment. The efforts of his colleagues, Shri Dilip Shetty of JSW Infrastructure Limited and Shri Ramanathan L., Senior VP & Unit Head, JSW Coal & Container Terminal, were also recognised by KCCI. The proceedings were gracefully conducted by Past President Smt. Vathika Pai. Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President, KCCI was present on stage. Directors of KCCI were also present on the occasion. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary, KCCI.
03-05-2026	–	4.30 p. m.	–	Kanara Industries Association (KIA) had their Valedictorian of Kanara Engineering Industrial Tech-Expo 2026 (KEITE) at Karavali Exhibition Ground. The valedictory was presented by Shri Narwade Vinayak Karbheri, Chief Executive Officer, Dakshina Kannada Jilla Panchayat. The Chief Guests on the occasion were Shri Pradeep D’Souza, District Skill Development Officer, Deputy Director of District Youth Empowerment & Sports Department and CA SS Nayak, Prop. SS Nayak & Associates, Chartered Accountants. The Guests of Honour during this event were Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI, Shri Abhinav Bansal, Chairman, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Mangaluru, Shri B.A. Nazeer, President – Canara Plastic Manufacturers and Traders Association and Director – KCCI and Smt. Kusuma H Devediga, President – District Small Industries Association. The event was presided by Shri Gokuldas Nayak, Joint Director, District Small Industries Association (DSIA), Mangaluru. Shri N. Arun Padiyar, Chairman – KEITE 2026 and other office bearers of KIA were present.
04-05-2026	–	12 noon	–	Meeting was held at KCCI to give suggestions on Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs as per the request received from their office. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers of the KCCI, Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President, CA Abdur Rahman Musba, Hon. Treasurer and other members CS Narasimha Pai, CS Ulhas Bhat, CS B. Swathi Baliga, CS Joel A. D’Souza and CA B. Chandrakanth Rao.
		04.30 p. m.	–	A meeting was held at Wrk Wrk Traingle, Mangaluru to explore the way forward for data centres opportunities in our coastal region. The meeting was attended by Shri P.B Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, Shri Anand G Pai, Immediate Past President – KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President, KCCI, CA Abdul Rahman Musba, Hon. Treasurer and Shri Rohit Bhat, Founder, wrkwrk.
05-05-2026	–	11.00 a. m.	–	A preparatory meeting on Dakshina Kannada District’s District Skill Development Plan was called by Shri Darshan H.V., IAS, Deputy Commissioner (DC), Dakshina Kannada District at the Court Hall of DC office. KCCI was represented by its President, Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar.
		4.30 p. m.	–	A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between KCCI and Mahaveera College, Moodabidri at the Conference Room of KCCI. The MoU was formally exchanged between Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President- KCCI and Shri Abhayachandra Jain, Chairman, Governing Council, Mahaveera College, Moodabidri. Present on the occasion from KCCI were Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar – Vice President, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor – Hon. Secretary, Shri Vincent Cutinha – Director, Shri Anand G. Pai – Immediate Past President and Shri Mytreya A – Chief Operating Officer. Representing Mahaveera College were Dr. Radha Krishna, Principal and Prof. Harish, HoD, Dept. of Commerce.
06-05-2026	–	9.15 a. m.	–	St. Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), Mangaluru’s Department of Business Administration inaugurated Zephyr – 2026, National Level UG –PG Management Fest at their Kalam Auditorium. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Shri Vincent Cutinha, Director- KCCI. The Guests of Honour on the occasion were Dr. Rio D’Souza, Principal, SJEC and Rev. Fr. Kenneth R Crasta, Assistant Director, SJEC. Rev. Fr. Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, Director, SJEC presided over the function. Dr. Prakash Pinto, Professor & Dean, MBA and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
07-05-2026	–	10.00 a. m.	–	The First Meeting of the Editorial Board of the Journal of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at the Conference Room of KCCI. The meeting was chaired by Ar. Ashrika Amin, Editor – Journal of KCCI. The meeting was attended by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary – KCCI, CA Salome Lobo Pereira, Associate Editor – Journal of KCCI and other members of the committee, Shri Aditya Padmanabha Pai, Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, Ms. M. Athmika Amin and Shri Sorabh Nahata.
		11.00 a. m.	–	The First Meeting of the Start Ups’ Sub-Committee of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at the Conference Room of KCCI. The meeting was chaired by Shri Vishwas Shishir, Chairman of the Startups sub-committee. The meeting was attended by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary and other members of the committee, CA Prasanna Shenoy, Shri Aravind and Shri Karthik Attavar.
11-05-2026	–	03.00 p. m.	–	The Board of Governing meeting followed by the AGM of NITK-STEP was held at the Boardroom of NITK-STEP, Surathkal, Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Shri M. M. Murugappan, Chairman, NITK- STEP. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI attended the meeting.
13-05-2026	–	4.30 p. m.	–	The Second Meeting of the Board of Directors of KCCI for the financial year 2026-27 and the Eighth Meeting of the Committee was convened at the Conference Room of KCCI. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI chaired the meeting in the presence of other Office Bearers, Directors and Special invitees.
15-05-2026	–	10.00 a. m.	–	The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, Mangaluru branch (SIRC) organized the inaugural ceremony of ‘Adhigama – Reinforcement of Knowledge’ at Palemar Convention Centre, Mangaluru. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Prof. (Dr.) M. Shantharam Shetty, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Pro-Chancellor of Nitte University and Chairman of Tejasvini Hospital & SSIOT, Mangaluru. The Guest of Honour on this occasion was CA Abhay Chajjed, CCM, Chairman Professional Development Committee, ICAI. CA, Danieal Marsh Pereira, Chairman, ICAI – Mangaluru and other dignitaries were present. Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary – KCCI and Shri Aditya Padmanabha Pai, Director – KCCI attended this event.
16-05-2026	–	9.30 a.m.	–	KCCI in association with SI-8 The Venture Studio, Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India (ECGC) and Indian Bank organized an Awareness Seminar on Export Facilitation, Role & Services of EPCH in Leveraging Overseas Marketing Platform on Saturday, 16^th May 2026 at KCCI Meeting Hall, Mangaluru. Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI, welcomed the dignitaries and participants. Shri Vishwas Shishir, Chairman, Startups Sub-Committee – KCCI addressed the members. Shri K. L. Ramesh, Chairman, Handicrafts & Carpet Sector Skill Council, emphasized the importance of quality standards and effective marketing in export business. The technical sessions were addressed by Smt. P. L. Sreedevi, Southern Regional Head, EPCH on the topic, ‘Export Facilitation, Role and Services of EPCH in Leveraging Overseas Marketing Platform’, Shri Vikash Kumar Prasad, Branch Head – ECGC Mangaluru, addressed the members on, RELIEF (Resilience & Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation) and Shri Suraj Prasanna Das, Zonal Manager, Indian Bank, Mysuru, explained about ‘Power your Business with Indian Bank’. The event witnessed participation from Entrepreneurs, Prospective Entrepreneurs, Exporters, staff and students of various educational institutions. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary – KCCI.
20-05-2026	–	3.00 p. m.	–	KCCI organized an Awareness Seminar on ‘PRARAMBH 2026 – New Income Tax Act 2025’ at KCCI Meeting Hall, Mangaluru. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI welcomed the resource persons and members. CA Prasanna Shenoy, Chairman, Income Tax Sub-committee – KCCI addressed the gathering. Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI introduced the speakers to the audience. Shri C. B. Suresh Kumar, IRS, Addl. Commissioner of Income Tax, Mangaluru addressed the members on an insight to the changes-for business and industry and Shri Vaishak P.R., IRS, Deputy Commissioner of Income Tax (Exemptions), Mangaluru spoke on changes in new IT Act for Non Profit organizations. CA Abdur Rahman Musba, Hon. Treasurer-KCCI and Shri Ramith Chennithala, Deputy Commissioner – Income Tax, Mangaluru were among others present on stage. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary-KCCI. The event witnessed participation from Business Owners, Chartered Accountants and staff from educational institutions.
22-05-2026	–	3.00 p. m.	–	A meeting was held to deliberate on the future course of action for establishing a High Court Bench in Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Shri Ivan D’Souza, MLC, Mangaluru, and was attended by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, Shri H.V. Raghavendra, President – Bar Association, Mangaluru, along with representatives from various organizations. The participants discussed strategies and collective efforts required to strengthen the demand for setting up a High Court Bench in Mangaluru and to take the matter forward with the concerned authorities.
		6.00 p. m.	–	The Indian Institute of Architects, Mangalore-Manipal Centre (IIA MMC) in association with CREDAI Mangalore, TiE Mangaluru and KCCI organized Mangaluru Urban Dialogue at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI was one of the speakers at the event. Other eminent speakers who addressed the gathering included Ar. Naresh Narasimhan, Managing Partner – Venkataramanan Associates, Bengaluru, Shri D. B. Mehta, President Elect, Credai – Karnataka, Er. Arun Prabha, GM Technical, smart City, Mangaluru and Shri Rohith Bhat, Founding President – TiE, Mangaluru. Among those from KCCI who attended the event were Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President-KCCI, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary-KCCI, Shri Anand G Pai, Immediate Past President – KCCI, Ar. Niren Jain, Chairman, Infrastructure & Urban development and Smart City, sub-committee of KCCI and Ar. Ashok L. P. Mendonca, Immediate Past Chairman, Infrastructure & Urban development and Smart City, sub-committee of KCCI.
29-05-2026	–	3.30 p. m.	–	KCCI was invited by the Joint Commissioner of Commercial Taxes (Administration), Mangaluru Division, regarding interaction with stakeholders during the visit of the Commissioner of Commercial Taxes, Karnataka. A delegation comprising Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary – KCCI, CA Keshava N. Ballakuraya, Chairman, Indirect Tax Committee – KCCI, Shri Ganesh Bhat, Member and Shri Abdul Khader Iddya, Member, Indirect Tax Committee – KCCI met the Commissioner of Commercial Taxes, Karnataka, Bengaluru and submitted a memorandum highlighting various practical difficulties and compliance-related issues being faced by GST taxpayers across the State.
30-05-2026	–	7.00 p. m.	–	Swastika National Business School, Mangaluru organized Swastika Awards Night 2026 at Swastika Waterfront, Mangaluru. Shri Vincent Cutinha, Director – KCCI, Smt. Vathika Pai, Past President – KCCI and Shri Mytreya A, Chief Operating Officer – KCCI were among the guests who presented awards to the students who excelled in various fields. The programme was graced by Dr. Raghavendra Holla N., Chairman – Swastika National Business School and Dr. Malini N Hebbar, Principal among other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

KCCI Organizes Export Facilitation Awareness Seminar in Mangaluru

by KCCI | May 16, 2026 | News and Events

The Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) in association with SI-8 The Venture Studio, Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India (ECGC) and Indian Bank organized an Awareness Seminar on Export Facilitation, Role & Services of EPCH in Leveraging Overseas Marketing Platform on Saturday, 16th May 2026 at KCCI Meeting Hall, Mangaluru.

The seminar highlighted India’s growing export potential and the vital role of artisans. KCCI Vice President Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice President emphasized the sector’s contribution of over ₹33,000 crore in exports and its support to more than 70 lakh artisans, while also showcasing the rich craft heritage of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.

Chairman, Startups Sub-committee, KCCI Shri Vishwas Shishir described the initiative as a long-term effort to support entrepreneurs and artisans, and Shri K. L. Ramesh Chairman, Handicrafts & Carpet Sector Skill Council stressed the importance of quality and market access. Technical sessions by Smt. P. L. Sreedevi Southern Regional Head (EPCH), Shri Vikash Kumar Prasad Branch Head – ECGC Mangalore, and Shri Suraj Prasanna Das Zonal Manager, Indian Bank, Mysore provided insights on export support services, risk coverage, and financial assistance.

The event witnessed active participation from entrepreneurs, students, and stakeholders, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor Hon. Secretary, KCCI.

KCCI Convenes Industry Leaders’ Forum to Address Key Industrial Issues

by KCCI | Apr 29, 2026 | News and Events

The Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) organized a Large Scale Industry Leaders’ Forum at the Mangalore Club on April 29, 2026. The event brought together representatives from large-scale industries across the region for an interactive session focused on addressing key industrial concerns and opportunities.

The Chief Guest for the occasion was Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament, Dakshina Kannada District.

KCCI President P.B. Ahmed Mudassar and Secretary Jeethan Allen Sequeira credited MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for these improvements, noting they are attracting new investments in renewables and pharmaceuticals. Treasurer Abdur Rahman Musba also urged industries to utilize the Chamber’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre for faster conflict resolution.

Recognising the challenges of executing infrastructure projects in the difficult Shiradi Ghat terrain, several key contributors were felicitated by KCCI in the presence of Hon’ble MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Shri Nandakumar Pillai, Director Refineries, MPRL and Capt. Manoj Joshi, Dy. Conservator, NMPA, for their exemplary service.

KCCI felicitated Project Directors Shri Praveen Kumar, Shri Syed Amanullah, and Shri Abdulla Javed Azmi, along with JSW’s Shri Nownith Kumar, Shri Dilip Shetty, and Shri Ramanathan L., for their exemplary service in managing the challenging Shiradi Ghat terrain.

MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta shared major updates, including the completed Mangaluru–Bengaluru railway electrification, progress on the Mangaluru bypass, and plans for a new railway station between Padil and Jokatte. He also highlighted his “Back to Ooru” initiative, efforts to establish an Indian Maritime University campus, and a proposal to shift regional rail operations to the South Western Railway for better efficiency.

The forum was gracefully moderated by Past President Smt. Vathika Pai. Present on the dais were Vice-President Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar and the Directors of KCCI, who joined in the discussions with industry leaders. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Hon. Secretary Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, expressing gratitude to the MP and all stakeholders for their commitment to the region’s progress.

January – February 2026

by KCCI | Mar 11, 2026 | Chamber at work

CHAMBER AT WORK : JAN – FEB 2026
21-01-2026	–	3.30 p. m.	–	The First Meeting of the Infrastructure and Urban Development and Smart City Sub-Committee of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at the Conference Room of KCCI. The meeting was chaired by the Chairman of the committee, Ar. Niren Jain. The meeting was attended by Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI, CA Abdur Rahman Musba, Hon. Treasurer, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary and members of the committee, Shri Santhosh Rodrigues, Shri Leanne Pais and Shri Ajeyakrishna U.
		4.30 p. m.	–	The Tenth Meeting of the Board of Directors of KCCI for the financial year 2025-26 and the Fourth Meeting of the Committee was convened at the Board room of KCCI. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI chaired the meeting in the presence of other Office Bearers Directors and special invitees.
23-01-2026	–	4.30 p. m.	–	The meeting for the preparation of District Skill Development Plan (DSDP) for the year 2025-26 was convened by Shri Darshan H. V. IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Dakshina Kannada Dist., Mangaluru at the Court Hall of, Deputy Commissioner’s office. Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary, KCCI attended the meeting.
29-01-2026	–	10.00 a. m.	–	The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), in association with the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Mangaluru, organized a Certification Training Program on Low-Carbon Building Transition at Ajanta Business Centre, Mangaluru. Shri M. N. Girish, Senior Director, FICCI, delivered the welcome address and outlined the objectives of the program. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President, KCCI, also addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of sustainable and energy-efficient building practices. As part of the technical sessions, Shri M. N. Girish presented an in-depth session on “Introduction to the ALCBT Project, Energy Scenario, and Building Energy Efficiency Program.” Shri Govind Patel, Master Trainer, FICCI, conducted a detailed session on “Fundamentals of GHG Accounting, GHG Protocol, Scope 1, 2 & 3, and Understanding Embodied Carbon and Life Cycle Assessment.” The program aimed to enhance awareness and capacity building among stakeholders on low-carbon building practices and climate-responsive construction. Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon-Secretary-KCCI and Shri Dasharath N Shetty, Director – KCCI attended the event. Members from various industries participated in the training program.
		12.30 p. m.	–	Shri K. Ullas Kamath, Mentor – FICCI Karnataka State Council, called on the Office Bearers of KCCI and other industry members for a luncheon meeting at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru. The Chief Guest during the meeting, Shri Chandru K. Iyer, British Deputy High Commissioner, interacted with the delegates on the Free Trade Agreement between India and the UK, as well as investment opportunities between the two countries across various sectors. The meeting was attended by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI; Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President; CA Abdur Rahman Musba, Hon. Treasurer; Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary; and Smt. Vathika Pai, Past President of KCCI among other members from various sectors.
		7.00 p. m.	–	Shri Chandru K. Iyer, British Deputy High Commissioner for Karnataka & Kerala and HM Deputy Trade Commissioner – South Asia (Investment), hosted industry members for the UK–India Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) Business Networking Reception on 29th January 2026 at Hotel Vivanta, Mangaluru. The interactive meeting focused on the Free Trade Agreement between India and the UK, as well as investment opportunities between the two countries across various sectors. KCCI was represented by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President; Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President; Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary and Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, Director.
01-02-2026	–	11.00 a. m.	–	KCCI convened a review meeting on the Union Budget 2026-27 at the Conference Room of KCCI. The session focused on analyzing the key highlights of the Budget presented by the Union Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman virtually. The meeting was presided over by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President in the presence of Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President, CA Abdur Rahman Musba, Hon. Treasurer, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary, Shri Anand G. Pai, Im. Past President, CA Prasanna Shenoy, Chairman – Income Tax sub-committee, CA Gautham Nayak, Chairman – Accounts & Audit committee and CA Poornima Nayak, a member. During the meeting, members discussed various provisions of the Budget and their impact on trade, industry, taxation, and the regional economy. The KCCI team subsequently shared its views and observations with the Press.
02-02-2026	–	4.30 p. m.	–	The First Meeting of the Airlines, Airport and Tourism Sub-Committee of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at the Meeting Hall of KCCI. The meeting was chaired by Ms. Vathika Pai, Chairperson of the Committee. The meeting was attended by Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon. Secretary – KCCI, other members of the committee, Ms. Athmika Amin, Director – KCCI, Shri William D’Souza, Shri Yathish Baikampady, Smt. Eulalia D’Souza, Shri Prashanth Rao Aroor, Shri K. Rajendra Kumar, Shri Jagannath Naik M., Shri Rammohan Paramjape, Shri Jenson Prakash, Shri Siddesh and Shri Dhruvin Jasani.
04-02-2026	–	11.00 a. m.	–	The 167^th Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee (DRUCC) meeting was held at Valluvanad Hall, Divisional Office, Palakkad. The meeting was chaired by Shri Madhukar Roat, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Palakkad Division. Shri M. Ahmed Bawa, the nominated member from KCCI representing DRUCC attended the meeting and put forward key suggestions concerning railway services and passenger amenities.
		11.30 a. m.	–	A meeting with seafood exporters of Karnataka and Goa was held through video conference. Capacity fixation of Fish Meal & Fish Oil plants as per the new MPEDA guidelines and other key points were discussed. Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, Director – KCCI attended the meeting.
05-02-2026	–	3.00 p. m.	–	A round table discussion on the Strategic Agri-Business Dialogue Session was organized by Kerala Climate Resilient Agri Value-Chain Modernisation at the Conference Hall of KCCI. Shri Suresh C. Thampi, Deputy Director, Dept. of Agriculture & Farmer’s Welfare, Govt. of Kerala/Procurement Officer, KERA Project addressed the members on Productive Alliances of Farmer Producer Companies and Agri Business Partners. KCCI President, Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar presented the welcome address. Present on the occasion were KCCI Vice-President, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Directors, Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohameed and Shri Vincent Cutinha. Members of various agro industries were present on the occasion.
06-02-2026	–	10.30 a. m.	–	KCCI, in association with Ocean Centres India—hosted by the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) and supported by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation-organized a Stakeholders’ Workshop titled “Stepping Stone towards a Safe & Sustainable Ocean Economy in India” on 6 February 2026 at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru. The workshop focused on the thematic areas of Fisheries & Aquaculture and Shipping & Ports. Shri Ratnesh, Executive Director, UNGC India, delivered the welcome address and set the context for the event, highlighting the importance of collaborative action for building a resilient and sustainable ocean economy. Shri Ravi Raj Atrey, Country Lead, Ocean Centres India, briefed the participants on the scope of Ocean Centres and outlined the benefits and privileges of membership. Addressing the gathering, Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President, KCCI, spoke on the scope and challenges faced by the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, while also emphasizing the critical need for mental wellbeing initiatives for seafarers. He reiterated that one of the Chamber’s core mandates has been to educate and inform SMEs and MSMEs about emerging trends, global developments, and future opportunities. The event also featured addresses by other distinguished delegates, followed by panel discussions on Socio-Economic Challenges of Fisheries & Aquaculture and Mental Wellbeing of Seafarers, with insights shared by expert speakers. Members from various marine and allied industries, along with academicians, actively participated in the deliberations, contributing to meaningful discussions and knowledge exchange. Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI and Shri Jeethan Allen Sequeira, Hon. Secretary – KCCI were present on the occasion.
		4.00 p. m.		The 22^ndPermanent Trade Facilitation Committee (PTFC) meeting and Sectoral meeting on On-going challenges/ issues faced in FAG 1 & 1A was conducted at Netravathi Auditorium, New Custom House, Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Ms. P. Vinitha Sekhar, IRS. KCCI was represented by Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President and CA Abdur Rahman Musba, Hon. Treasurer.
		4.15 p. m.	–	An outreach program was organized by Shri Harikrishnan D., Joint Commissioner, on “Baggage Rules 2026 and New Customs Baggage (Declaration and Processing) Regulations, 2026” at Netravathi Auditorium, New Custom House, Mangaluru. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, CA Abdur Rahman Musba, Hon. Treasurer – KCCI and members of other trade associations were present.
07-02-2026	–	10.30 a. m.	–	The Governing Body meeting for the year 2025-26 of CEOL was convened at Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Mangaluru under the Chairmanship of Shri Darshan H.V., I.A.S, Deputy Commissioner, Dakshina Kannada District. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI and Shri Ajay Prabhu, Director and Chairman, IT Sub-committee of KCCI attended the meeting.
		10.30 a. m.	–	The Launch Ceremony of Coastal Startup Fest 2026 was jointly organized by NITTE and MRPL at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru. The guests on the occasion were Shri Manjunath Singai, General Manager, Canara Bank, Mangaluru; Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President-KCCI, CA S. S. Nayak, MSME and Startup Mentor, Mangaluru; Dr. Vijayendra Vasanth, Secretary – UCCI, Udupi; Ms. Athmika Amin, Director – KCCI and Shri Prashun Shetty, Founder & CEO- TagSkills EdTech Pvt. Ltd.
10-02-2026	–	9.00 a. m.	–	Entrepreneurship Development Programme – 2026 was organized by the School of Business Management, Department of MBA, AIMIT Centre, St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru at Arthur Shenoy Memorial Auditorium, AIMIT. The event was inaugurated and formal address was given by Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President- KCCI. Shri Ajay Prabhu, Director- KCCI, one of the Speakers addressed the students on ‘My journey as an Entrepreneur’ and Smt. Vathika Pai, Past President – KCCI addressed the students on ‘Mentorpitch-Where Young Ideas Meet a Wise Mind’. There were other prominent speakers from other industries.
12-02-2026	–	9.00 a. m.	–	Impetus 2026 – Igniting Young Minds was organized by St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University) at their Eric Mathias Hall, Mangaluru. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI was the Chief Guest on the occasion. Other speakers for the event were, Dr. Royal Praveen D’Souza, Director – Siona Solutions, Shri Prashun Shetty, Founder & CEO – TagSkills EdTech Pvt. Ltd and Shri Ashish Rai, Director – Pentagram Systems. The fest aims to inspire entrepreneurial thinking, innovation, and leadership among students.
14-02-2026	–	4.30 p. m.	–	The First Meeting of the Shipping and Port Relation Sub-Committee of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at the Meeting Hall of KCCI. The meeting was chaired by Shri Jeethan Allen Sequeira, Chairman of the committee. The meeting was attended by Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI and members of committee, Shri Philip CC, Shri Nownith Kumar, Shri Shekahara Poojari, Shri Shareef, Shri Udaya Kumar Shetty, Shri Nityanand Pai, Shri Nityananda Shetty, Shri V. Srinath, Shri Avinash S, Shri Vignesh, Shri Ganesh C, Shri Manohara M.S., Shri Navin Shetty and Shri Nithin Sulaya
15-02-2026	–	3.30 p. m.	–	The Mangaluru Customs Commissionerate under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) celebrated International Customs Day 2026 at the Business Development Centre, New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), Mangaluru. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI attended the event.
16-02-2026	–	3.30 p. m.	–	The First Meeting of the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR), Sub-Committee of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at the Conference Room of KCCI. The meeting was chaired by Prof. CA. Lional Aranha, Chairman of the Sub-committee. The meeting was attended by Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI and members of the committee, CA Naveen Narayan and CA Colin O. Rodrigues.
17-02-2026	–	10.00 a. m.	–	Budget Sameeksha 2k26 was organized by the Department of MBA, in association with Finance Club, ‘Artha’ at Shree Devi Institute of Technology, Mangaluru. The resource persons for the event were CA Keshava N. Ballakuraya, Chairman – GST sub-committee of KCCI and CA Sabana, Partner, M/s. Ballakuraya & Associates.
		4.30 p. m.	–	The Eleventh Meeting of the Board of Directors of KCCI for the financial year 2025-26 and the Fifth Meeting of the Committee was convened at the Board room of KCCI. Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar, President, KCCI chaired the meeting in the presence of other Office Bearers and Directors.
18-02-2026	–	11.00 a. m.	–	Public Hearing of Mangalore Electricity Supply Company (MESCOM) tariff revision application was held at MESCOM Bhawan, Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Shri P. Ravi Kumar, Chairman of Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC). Shri H K Jagadeesh, Member, KERC was also present. KCCI was represented by its President, Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, Hon. Treasurer, CA Abdur Rahman Musba and Director and Chairman of Power Sub-Committee of KCCI, Shri B. A. Nazeer who presented the objections on tariff hike before the officials of KERC.
		1.00 p. m.	–	Members of Coastal Karnataka Sailing Club (CKSC) visited KCCI to brief about the opportunities in water sports and tourism. Shri Satyavir Singh Siwatch, Secretary – CKSC briefed Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI about CKSC and opportunities. Shri Rohan and Shri Yashwanth – Sailing Instructors also briefed about water sports. Present in the meeting were Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI and Shri Anand G Pai, Im. Past President – KCCI.
		4.30 p. m.	–	Screening Committee meeting for Single Window meeting was held at District Industries Centre (DIC), Mangaluru. The meeting was chaired by Shri Gokuldas Nayak, Joint Director, DIC, D.K Dist., to discuss the allotment of land and new applications seeking for land in the industrial area. KCCI was represented by Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI.
20-02-2026	–	10.15 a. m.	–	MIR Net Zero Vision 2047 was unveiled with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp at TMA Pai International Convention Centre, Mangaluru. The Guests on the occasion were Shri Nitik Ratnakar, Executive Director – MIR Group, Arch. Raffaele Marrazzo, CEO – MIR Group, Shri Giandomenico Milano, Consul General, Consulate General of Italy in Bengaluru, Shri Abhay Bakre, Director General, Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Shri T.D Rajegowda, Member of Legislative Assembly and Chairman, Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Ltd, Captain Brijesh Chowta – Member of Parliament, D.K District, Shri Darshan H V – Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate of Dakshina Kannada, Shri Gokul Das Nayak, Joint Director, District Industries Centre, Mangaluru and Shri V. Suryanarayana ,Chief Executive Officer – Mangalore Special Economic Zone Ltd (MSEZL), Mangaluru. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI and Shri Jeethan Allen Sequeira, Hon. Secretary – KCCI attended the event. The unveiling ceremony was followed by expert panel discussions across various domains.
23-02-2026	–	2.30 p. m.	–	Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Mangaluru District conducted their Annual Meeting 2025-26 & Public Session on MSME at the Growth Frontier: Trade & Capital for Global Competitiveness at Hotel Avatar, Mangaluru. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI, Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President – KCCI, Directors of KCCI, Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, Shri B.A. Nazir, Shri Aditya Padmanabha Pai and Ms. M. Athmika Amin attended the event.
24-02-2026	–	3.30 p. m.	–	The Eighth Meeting of the Management Committee of Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) was held virtually. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI as the special invitee in the BCIC committee attended the meeting. Shri Prashant Gokhale, President – BCIC chaired the meeting.
25-02-2026	–	4.30 p. m.	–	The First Meeting of the KCCI Conclave – 2026, Sub-Committee of KCCI for the year 2025-26 was convened at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru. Shri Divakar Pai Kochikar, Vice-President and Chairman of the committee chaired the meeting. The meeting was attended by Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI, Shri Ashwin Pai Maroor, Hon.Secretary, Directors, Shri Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, Shri Vincent Cutinha, Shri Nitte Dasharath Shetty, Past Presidents, Shri Shashidhar Pai Maroor, Shri Isaac Vas and Smt. Vathika Pai.
26-02-2026	–	10.30 a. m.	–	The Department of MBA, Srinivas Institute of Technology, Mangaluru organized ‘Shriyans 2K26’, a national level inter-collegiate UG & PG Fest at their Seminar Hall. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar. The event was presided by Dr. Shrinivasa Mayya D., Principal of the college.
		3.30 p. m.	–	Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC), had their BCIC Golden Jubilee Logo Launch by Shri Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Member of Parliament, Mysore-Kodagu constituency at Grand Ballroom, Bengaluru. Smt. Vathika Pai, Past President – KCCI attended the event.
28-02-2026	–	10.00 a. m.	–	Evolve, a women entrepreneur association organized, BizInsight 2026 with the theme, ‘Entrepreneurship in Mangalore: What’s Working, What’s Next at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Mangaluru. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President-KCCI attended the event.
		12.30 p. m.	–	BOLPU, an initiative by Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament, Dakshina Kannada dist., organized a meet with the theme, ‘11 Ideas Rooted in Impact – One Shared Journey Forward’ at Hotel Madhuvan Village, Mangaluru. Capt. Brijesh Chowta congratulated all the 11 Startup companies and who will be mentored by the expert panel. Shri P.B. Ahmed Mudassar, President – KCCI attended the event.

Awareness Programme on MSME Design Scheme Held at KCCI

by KCCI | Mar 7, 2026 | News and Events

The Centre for System Design (CSD), NITK Surathkal, in association with the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), organised an awareness programme on the MSME Design Scheme on March 7, 2026, at KCCI Meeting Hall, Mangaluru. Sponsored by the Ministry of MSME, the event focused on the theme “Design for Manufacturing.”

KCCI President Shri P. B. Ahmed Mudassar emphasised the need for MSMEs to leverage NITK’s technical expertise and infrastructure to remain competitive.

A major highlight of the programme was the session by Dr. Bijuna C. Mohan, Coordinator the MSME Implementing Agency initiative at NITK, outlined how the institute supports MSMEs through technical guidance, packaging design, and branding.

Prof. K. V. Gangadharan, coordinator of the Centre for System Design, NITK and Shri Vedha Prakash, Designer – Aktis Engineering covered the design lifecycle, prototyping, and value engineering.

An informative session was delivered by Ms. Sruthi G. K. Assistant Director, Br. MSME Development and Facilitation Office (DFO), Mangaluru briefed participants on the MSME Innovative Scheme and available funding opportunities.

The programme concluded with an interactive Q&A, fostering a roadmap for design-led innovation in the regional manufacturing sector. Dr. Rahul Sivarajan, Coordinator, Design Awareness Program, NITK, proposed the vote of thanks.