The Indian Panorama

Tag: Ambassador Dr Manoj Kumar Mohapatra

  • Embassy of India in Romania Organizes B2B on Information Technology & Communications

    Embassy of India in Romania Organizes B2B on Information Technology & Communications

    BUCHAREST (TIP): The Embassy of India successfully organized a Business-to-Business (B2B) meeting on Information Technology & Communications (IT&C) with Romanian companies to explore avenues for collaboration and partnership in the IT sector. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Romanian IT industry and served as an important platform for strengthening India-Romania cooperation in the technology domain.

    Two eminent industry leaders from India participated as lead speakers: Mr. Sandeep Narula, Chairman (Global Outreach), and Mr. Gurmeet Singh, Director & CEO of the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC India). Their presence added significant value to the discussions and provided industry-driven insights into India’s rapidly growing IT ecosystem.

    Presentation shown during the B2B.

    The B2B meeting was held in a physical format, with more than 30 potential Romanian IT companies participating actively and demonstrating strong interest in exploring partnerships with Indian counterparts. The session commenced with special remarks by the Ambassador of India to Romania, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, who highlighted the robust growth of India’s IT sector and its emergence as a global technology and innovation hub. The Ambassador also expressed his appreciation to the special guests who travelled from India to participate in the B2B meeting and formally honored them for their contributions.

    Addressing the participants, Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra emphasized India’s strengths in IT services, software development, digital innovation, and skilled human resources. He expressed confidence that Romanian companies would explore concrete trade and investment opportunities with Indian firms. The Ambassador reiterated India’s position as a reliable global partner in the IT sector and encouraged Romanian companies to consider sourcing, collaboration, and joint ventures with Indian IT enterprises. Indian companies, in turn, invited Romanian firms to visit India to gain firsthand exposure to their IT infrastructure and facilities. Impressed by the presentations and discussions, several Romanian companies expressed keen interest in visiting India.

    Questions were answered by the lead speakers of the event.

    During the session, Mr. Sandeep Narula briefed participants on the rapid expansion of India’s IT industry, driven by key Government of India initiatives and digital transformation projects that are positioning the country at the forefront of global technology development. He delivered a detailed presentation on the achievements and role of ESC India in promoting electronics and software exports with strong government support. He also addressed numerous questions raised by Romanian IT companies and extended a formal invitation to the Romanian IT industry to participate in India Soft 2026, a major international technology exhibition scheduled for March 23-25 in New Delhi, to experience Indian IT capabilities firsthand and forge concrete partnerships.

    Mr. Gurmeet Singh highlighted the sustained growth trajectory of India’s IT sector and its potential to emerge as one of the leading global IT hubs in the years to come. He emphasized the opportunities available for international collaboration and underlined ESC India’s commitment to facilitating partnerships between Indian and Romanian companies.

    One of the enthusiastic participants from ANIS Romania (@ANIS_RO), Mr. Edward Creescu, President, addressed the gathering and shared data-driven insights highlighting the robust and rapidly expanding Romanian IT sector. He expressed strong interest in visiting India to gain firsthand exposure to India’s dynamic IT ecosystem and conveyed his keen willingness to participate in India Soft 2026 (March 23-25, New Delhi), further strengthening avenues for India-Romania collaboration in the technology sector.

    A group photo taken during the event.

    The Embassy of India reaffirmed its continued commitment to strengthening economic and commercial ties between India and Romania, particularly in priority sectors such as information technology and communications. The Embassy assured participants of its full support in facilitating future engagements, exchanges, and business collaborations between stakeholders from both countries.

    The event concluded with productive and forward-looking discussions, reflecting strong mutual interest and laying the groundwork for deeper cooperation in the IT & Communications sector between India and Romania.

    (Based on a Press Release issued by the Embassy of India in Bucharest, Romania)

  • Embassy of India in Romania Organizes Virtual B2B on Home Appliances

    Opening remarks by Ms. Bavleen Kaur, Sr. Director, FICCI.
    Remarks by Ms. Mihai Chelbi, Com Director, Marelvi Impex SRL.

    BUCHAREST (TIP): The Embassy of India organized a Virtual B2B Meeting on Home Appliances between a Romanian company and four leading Indian companies – IFB, Dixon Technologies, Crompton Greaves, and Havells India. The meeting witnessed active and enthusiastic participation from the Indian side and was organized in coordination with Ms. Bavleen Kaur, Senior Director, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI).

    Remarks by Ms. Mihai Chelbi, GM, Marelvi Impex SRL.
    Presentation by Mr. Anil Arora, VP, Dixon Technologies

    The meeting was organized in a virtual format as the Romanian company, Marelvi Impex SRL, is located in Suceava County, approximately 500 kms from Bucharest. This virtual engagement followed the visit of Ambassador of India, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, to Suceava County, during which he met with the company’s management. During this interaction, the Romanian company expressed strong interest in establishing trade relations with India. Consequently, the Embassy facilitated this virtual B2B meeting with potential Indian companies that are already exporting globally and are keen to expand their presence in the Romanian market.

    Presentation by Mr. Rajan Rahi, Head of IFB.
    Presentation by Mr. Rahul Murgai, Head of Havells India.
    Presentation by Mr. Durgesh Buxy, AVP & Head of Crompton Greaves.

    The meeting commenced with opening remarks by Ms. Bavleen Kaur, Senior Director, FICCI, who highlighted the importance of institutional support in facilitating international business partnerships. This was followed by presentations from Marelvi Impex SRL and the participating Indian companies, which led to constructive and meaningful discussions.

    H.E. Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra Ambassador of India, gives his remarks.
    H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohapatra and Ms. Mihai Chelbi, GM, Marelvi Impex SRL engage in the discussion.

    Addressing the participants, Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra highlighted India’s strengths and capabilities in the home appliances sector and expressed confidence that Marelvi Impex SRL would explore concrete trade opportunities with India. The Indian companies also invited the Romanian company to visit India to gain firsthand exposure to their manufacturing facilities. The Romanian company, impressed by the presentations, expressed keen interest in visiting India. The Ambassador reiterated India’s position as a global manufacturing hub for high-quality products and encouraged Romanian companies to explore sourcing and partnership opportunities with Indian firms.

    The Embassy of India reaffirmed its continued commitment to strengthening economic and commercial ties between India and Romania, particularly in priority sectors such as home appliances and manufacturing, and assured participants of its support in facilitating future engagements.

    The event concluded with a fruitful discussion.

    (Based on a Press Release issued by the Embassy of India in Romania)

  • 92-MEMBER BUSINESS DELEGATION FROM PHARMEXCIL VISITS GUATEMALA

    92-MEMBER BUSINESS DELEGATION FROM PHARMEXCIL VISITS GUATEMALA

    • The presence of the largest-ever business delegation from India has significantly bolstered trust among Guatemala buyers

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): India’s proactive outreach has sparked significant interest among Indian companies, leading to a notable uptick in bilateral trade and a surge in the exchange of trade delegations. Following successful visits by a 15-member delegation from The Plastic Export Promotion Council (Plexconcil) in November 2023 and a 20-member delegation from the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO), Guatemala witnessed the arrival of a massive 92-member delegation, comprising 74 companies from The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil), on 19-20 February 2024. This delegation conducted a series of highly productive Business-to-Business meetings with local companies at the Westin Camino Real Hotel in Guatemala City. Notably, this delegation marks the largest-ever visit to the Latin American region by Pharmexcil, unlocking vast opportunities for collaboration and economic growth.

    The Business Meet witnessed a remarkable turnout of buyers.

    The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) plays a pivotal role in promoting and facilitating India’s pharmaceutical exports on the global stage. As the apex body representing the Indian pharmaceutical industry, Pharmexcil functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Its primary objective is to enhance the competitiveness of Indian pharmaceutical products in international markets while ensuring compliance with global regulatory standards. Pharmexcil provides a range of services to its members, including market intelligence, trade facilitation, regulatory guidance, and promotional activities. Through its concerted efforts, Pharmexcil serves as a catalyst for driving the growth of India’s pharmaceutical exports, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and strengthening its position as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’.

    The presence of the largest-ever business delegation from India has significantly bolstered trust among local buyers.

    Guatemala has emerged as India’s largest trading partner in the Central American region, with bilateral trade reaching US$573.21 million in the 2021-22 period. This trend has continued to strengthen, with bilateral trade increasing to US$693 million in the 2022-23 period, indicating a notable upward trajectory. India’s pharmaceutical exports to Guatemala have been witnessing significant growth in recent years. With India being one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality generic medicines at competitive prices, its pharmaceutical products have gained traction in the Guatemalan market. These exports encompass a wide range of pharmaceutical formulations, including generic drugs, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), formulations, and medical devices. Such exchange of trade delegations and participation in business-to-business meetings have been instrumental in enhancing collaboration and exploring new avenues for pharmaceutical trade between the two countries.

    Pharmexcil launched its campaign in Guatemala in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce of Guatemala, with approximately 175 Guatemalan companies participating in the Business-to-Business meetings on both days. The event was also attended by some Honduran companies. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Mr. Julio Eduardo Orozco, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala, Francis Garnica, Executive Director of MINECO’s National Competitiveness Program Ministry of Economy, and Ms. Lakshmi Prasanna, Director-Regulatory Affairs, Pharmexcil. The inaugural event featured presentations by Ms. Karem Sagastume from the Department of Regulation and Control of Pharmaceuticals and Related Products of the Ministry of Health, Sr. Eduardo Cheves, Investment Attraction Specialist for Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices, and Ms. Jennifer Lobos from the National Competitiveness Program (PRONACOM). Mr. Udaya Bhaskar, Director-General of the Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India, delivered his recorded remarks virtually. Ms. Lakshmi Prasanna, Director-Regulatory Affairs, Pharmexcil, delivered a presentation outlining the organization’s approach and future prospects. The delegation received an overwhelming response from local companies, demonstrating their keen interest in partnering with visiting countries. Delegation members also had the opportunity to interact with Guatemala’s apex health authorities such as UNOPS and IGGS to gain insights into trade regulations for pharmaceuticals and medical devices and discussed ways to enhance bilateral trade relations.

    Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra underscored the significant presence of Indian pharmaceutical companies in Guatemala and India’s steadfast commitment to supporting healthcare facilities.

    In his welcoming address, Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra underscored the significant presence of Indian pharmaceutical companies in Guatemala and India’s steadfast commitment to supporting healthcare facilities in the Central American region. He highlighted Guatemala’s strategic geographical location in Central America, which presents an opportunity for India to enhance its economic engagement with other nations in the region. Dr. Mohapatra expressed hope for future cooperation between India and Guatemala to leverage their unique ecosystems, including a plethora of endemic species, for traditional and generic medicines. He extended congratulations to Pharmexcil for spearheading the largest-ever delegation to the region and conveyed his best wishes to Indian companies in their efforts to foster greater business opportunities in Guatemala.

    During his virtual interaction, Shri Uday Bhaskar, Director General of Pharmexcil, underscored the pivotal role of Indian Pharma globally, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the significant presence of Indian pharmaceutical companies in Latin America, highlighting Guatemala’s emergence as a crucial market for these companies. This recognition underscores the importance of Guatemala in the broader context of Indian pharmaceutical exports to the region, reflecting the growing significance of the country as a strategic market for Indian pharmaceutical products.

    The B2B Meetings facilitated exploration of potential trade opportunities, allowing businesses from both countries to identify areas of mutual interest and collaboration. The delegation gained insights of Guatemalan markets, helping them understand regulatory environments, consumer behavior, and market trends, which is crucial for successful market entry. These meetings can not only serve as a forum to promote investment opportunities, encouraging businesses to invest in each other’s countries and contribute to economic growth but also provide a platform for networking, enabling companies to connect with potential partners, suppliers, and distributors, thereby expanding their business networks. Embassy of India in Guatemala looks forward to many more such visits in future to enhance the trade relations between Indian and these Central American Countries.

  • VISIT OF 20-MEMBER BUSINESS DELEGATION FROM FIEO TO GUATEMALA AND EL SALVADOR

    VISIT OF 20-MEMBER BUSINESS DELEGATION FROM FIEO TO GUATEMALA AND EL SALVADOR

    Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra presented souvenir to H.E. Ms Maria Luisa Hayem, Hon’ble Minister of Economy of El Salvador at San Salvador

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): India’s proactive engagement with the untapped Central American market underscores its aspirations to emerge as a leader among global South nations. This outreach has proven highly attractive to numerous Indian companies, catalyzing a significant increase in bilateral trade. Notably, this surge in trade has unlocked vast opportunities not only for large conglomerates but also for small and medium enterprises. As part of this strategic direction, Guatemala and El Salvador recently hosted a successful visit by a delegation of 20 Indian companies from Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO) led by Mr. Khalid Khan. This delegation engaged in a series of productive Business-to-Business meetings with local companies in Guatemala City and San Salvador from February 12 to 16, 2024.

    Ambassador Dr Manoj Kumar Mohapatra highlighted the huge potential of Central American market and reiterated Indian Government’s commitment to increase bilateral trade

    FIEO is an apex body of the Government recognized Export Promotion Councils, Commodity Boards and Export Development Authorities in India.  It was set up in 1965 by Ministry of Commerce, Govt. of India to focus the efforts of all stakeholders engaged in promotion of trade from the country. FIEO exchanges business delegations, establishes MoUs with counterpart organizations overseas, and arranges exhibitions, catalogue shows abroad. It provides the crucial interface between International Trading community of India with the Central and State Governments, Financial Institutions, Ports, Railways, Surface Transport and all engaged in Export Trade Facilitation.  It directly and indirectly serves the interests of over 200,000 exporters from every Industry and Services sector in India.

    Guatemala has emerged as India’s largest trading partner in the Central American region, with bilateral trade reaching US$573.21 million in the 2021-22 period. This trend has continued to strengthen, with bilateral trade increasing to US$693 million in the 2022-23 period, indicating a notable upward trajectory. Similarly, India has been steadily expanding its trade presence in El Salvador, with trade reaching US$126 million in the financial year 2022-23. The top products exported from India to the Central American region include pharmaceuticals, textiles (especially cotton yarn and fibers), engineering products, automobiles (two and three-wheelers), motor vehicles/cars, auto components and parts, iron and steel, industrial machinery and parts, and electrical machinery and equipment. On the other hand, India primarily imports wood, wood charcoal, coffee, and aluminum scrap from these regions.

    FIEO launched its campaign in Guatemala in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce of Guatemala, with approximately 90 Guatemalan companies participating in the Business-to-Business meetings. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Mr. Jorge Briz Abularach, President of the Chamber of Commerce, and Mr. Julio Eduardo Orozco, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala. Mr. Rohit Tejpal, Deputy Director of FIEO, delivered a presentation outlining the organization’s approach and future prospects. The delegation received an overwhelming response from local companies, demonstrating their keen interest in partnering with visiting countries. During the event, FIEO signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chamber of Commerce to strengthen collaboration in investment, trade, quality standards, technology transfer, and economic cooperation. Delegation members also had the opportunity to interact with Guatemala’s apex export councils such as PRONACOM, AGEXPORT, Invest Guatemala, and the Chamber of Industry to gain insights into trade regulations and discuss ways to enhance bilateral trade relations.

    Business Meetings Guatemala were conducted the premises of Chamber of Commerce of Guatemala,

    The journey of the business delegates from FIEO continued as they proceeded to El Salvador to explore the vast potential of this rapidly growing economy. Upon arrival, the delegates were warmly welcomed by the Honorable Minister of Economy of El Salvador, Ms. Maria Luisa Hayem, along with Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra and Mr. Salvador Gome Goche, President of Invest in El Salvador. Ambassador Ariel Galindo, former Ambassador of El Salvador in India, played a pivotal role in encouraging local companies to participate in the business meetings. Despite being an unexplored destination for the visiting delegation, the enthusiastic response from local companies bolstered their excitement and prompted them to further explore the local market the following day. The delegates ventured into areas such as Santa Tecla and other prominent locations to gain insights into the local market dynamics and opportunities for collaboration.

    The B2B Meetings in these two countries facilitated exploration of potential trade opportunities, allowing businesses from both countries to identify areas of mutual interest and collaboration. The delegation gained insights of Guatemalan and El Salvador markets, helping them understand regulatory environments, consumer behavior, and market trends, which is crucial for successful market entry. These meetings can not only serve as a forum to promote investment opportunities, encouraging businesses to invest in each other’s countries and contribute to economic growth but also provide a platform for networking, enabling companies to connect with potential partners, suppliers, and distributors, thereby expanding their business networks. Embassy of India in Guatemala looks forward to many more such visits in future to enhance the trade relations between Indian and these Central American Countries.

    FEIO and Chamber of Commerce Guatemala signed an MoU to enhance mutual cooperation
  • Global Dissemination of India’s Educational Transformation: The initiative of Embassy and EdCIL in Promoting the National Education Policy (NEP)

    Global Dissemination of India’s Educational Transformation: The initiative of Embassy and EdCIL in Promoting the National Education Policy (NEP)

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): The Embassy of India in Guatemala organized a seminar on January 17, 2024, centered around the theme “Leveraging the National Education Policy-2020 of India for Furthering Bilateral Educational Relations.” The event saw physical participation of approx. 50 esteemed dignitaries, educational leaders and academics from Guatemala with virtual presence from El Salvador and Honduras. The seminar was focused on highlighting India’s commitment to promoting international collaboration in education.

    The National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020 in India marks a transformative shift in the country’s education landscape, emphasizing holistic and flexible learning. Its requirements include the restructuring of curriculum frameworks, promoting multi-disciplinary studies, and fostering critical thinking skills. The NEP aims to align education with the evolving needs of the 21st century, nurturing creativity, and encouraging a deeper understanding of subjects. Its importance lies in creating an inclusive and equitable educational system that addresses diverse learning needs. The success of the NEP is evident in its emphasis on skill development, flexibility in choosing subjects, and integrating technology into education. The Indian government committed to generate a well-educated populace contributes to economic growth, innovation, and global competitiveness. Moreover, the NEP enhances the appeal of Indian institutions, making them attractive to foreign students seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking educational environment. The emphasis on research, innovation, and global exposure positions India as an educational hub, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

    The seminar on National Education Policy 2020 of Govt of India received an overwhelming response from the audience.

    EdCIL (India) Limited plays a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in India. As a premier government-owned consultancy organization, EdCIL is actively engaged in providing expert guidance and support in various aspects of education policy execution. Its role spans from facilitating policy advocacy to aiding in the development of educational infrastructure. EdCIL contributes to the NEP by assisting in the formulation and execution of policies related to curriculum design, teacher training, and educational technology integration. The organization’s expertise in project management and educational consultancy is harnessed to ensure effective implementation at various levels of the education system. EdCIL’s commitment to fostering excellence in education aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the NEP, making it an instrumental partner in reshaping and revitalizing the Indian education landscape.

    The Embassy of India assumes a crucial role in disseminating the National Education Policy (NEP) globally, underscoring India’s dedication to holistic and innovative education. To proficiently convey the transformative changes ushered in by the NEP, the embassy relies on the expertise of EdCIL (India) Limited. EdCIL’s extensive background in educational consultancy and project management positions it as a valuable collaborator in elucidating the fundamental features and advantages of the NEP to an international audience. Harnessing EdCIL’s support allows the embassy to effectively communicate information about the NEP, spotlighting its progressive strategies in curriculum design, teacher training, and technology integration. EdCIL’s assistance guarantees a thorough and accurate representation of the NEP’s goals, contributing to a nuanced understanding of India’s initiatives for educational reform on the global platform.

    Participants from Guatemala during the Seminar

    During the seminar, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, the Ambassador of India to Guatemala in his welcome address, underscored the rapidly growing bilateral relations between India and Guatemala and the significance of leveraging India’s robust education system to strengthen bilateral relations. He extended a warm invitation to Guatemalan students to explore the diverse educational opportunities available in India. Mr. Manoj Kumar, Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of EdCIL (India), presented the Opening Remarks, emphasizing the transformative aspects of India’s National Education Policy-2020. He highlighted the adaptability of the Indian education system to modern trends while maintaining its cultural roots. Mr. Kumar also discussed the collaborative efforts needed to enhance educational ties between the two nations. The President of CEPS – Council of Private Higher Education in Guatemala, M.A. Walter Ramiro Mazariegos Biolis, addressed the gathering, expressing his support for strengthened educational partnerships. President Biolis assured the collaboration of Guatemalan universities and academic institutions, as well as government bodies, to facilitate a seamless exchange of students and ideas between the two countries. Dr. B Chandrsekhar, Executive Director (ED) of EdCIL (India), delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting the unique features of the Indian education system. Dr. Chandrsekhar discussed the emphasis on inclusivity, affordability, and quality in Indian education, making it an attractive option for international students. He encouraged collaboration in research and academic programs between Indian and Guatemalan institutions.

    The Embassy will host a meeting involving the Rector of San Carlos University, Guatemala, and EdCIL in the first week of February 2024 to delve deeper into the potential impact of the National Education Policy on enhancing the education system in Guatemala. Embassy further extended an open invitation to foreign students, including those from Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, to explore the rich tapestry of educational opportunities in India, shaped by its ancient traditions and modern advancements. India welcomes students from around the world to embark on a transformative journey of learning and personal growth within its diverse and vibrant academic landscape.