Trade, tariffs, and the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence (AI) took center stage on the inaugural day of Business Standard Manthan 2026, India’s foremost thought leadership summit. Held over two days at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, the event focused on the theme “Making India Future Ready,” exploring critical issues such as AI, India’s demographic dividend, infrastructure, and agriculture.
The summit gathered prominent figures from government, industry, and academia to engage in discussions across a spectrum of topics. Key subjects included the transformative impact of AI on markets, innovations in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, evolving dynamics in agriculture, electric mobility, and advancements in Industry 5.0. Presentations emphasized India’s journey with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) amid a rapidly changing geopolitical and technological landscape.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal underscored the importance of global engagement, stating, “No country has achieved development without interacting with the world.” He conveyed that India stands as a beacon of confidence in the global economy while announcing the resumption of trade discussions with the United States once conditions stabilize.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, highlighted critical issues surrounding food security and livelihood opportunities linked to FTAs. Meanwhile, Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport and Highways, stressed the importance of enhancing road safety through improved engineering, education, and enforcement measures.
A recurring theme throughout the discussions was the significance of technology and India’s diverse market potential. This was echoed by both veteran companies like ITC Limited and innovative newcomers such as Ather Energy, illustrating a shared vision for leveraging technology in a dynamic domestic landscape. Insights into Industry 5.0 revealed its focus on integrating human ingenuity with technological advancements to create globally competitive and future-ready enterprises.
One of the most pressing topics discussed was sustainability within the data center ecosystem. Experts noted that as significant energy consumers, data centers are often criticized for their substantial water usage for cooling purposes. However, panelists pointed out India’s unique position of entering this sector later, enabling the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. Strategies for more sustainable practices, such as using wind for cooling instead of water, were highlighted alongside discussions on the shift toward renewable energy sources.
As the summit unfolds, the interplay between technology, trade, and agricultural advancements continues to be a focal point for thought leaders aiming to position India as a global powerhouse. The insights and collaborations generated during Business Standard Manthan 2026 will likely shape policies and strategies that promote sustainable growth and innovation in the years to come.
In summary, this summit serves not just as a platform for dialogue, but as a critical juncture for envisioning India’s role in a technology-driven future.
Original Source: https://www.business-standard.com/specials/bs-events/trade-tariff-and-technology-dominate-opening-day-of-bs-manthan-2026-126022401184_1.html
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-02-24 20:51:00
