BCIC Honours Four Changemakers at 49th Annual Meet
The Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) marked the beginning of its Golden Jubilee year by honouring four distinguished personalities whose extraordinary contributions have enriched the fields of science, defence, healthcare, and agriculture at its 49th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Bengaluru.
The Chamber felicitated Padma Shri Dr. Shubha Venkatesh Iyengar, Major General R K Suresh, SC, SM, Dr. B S Srinath, and Padma Shri Dr. Khader Valli Dudekula, recognising their exemplary service to the nation and society.
A major highlight of the AGM was BCIC's felicitation of four eminent personalities whose outstanding achievements have left an indelible mark on the nation.
The Chamber honoured Padma Shri Dr. Shubha Venkatesh Iyengar, Distinguished Aerospace Scientist at CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL), for her pioneering contributions to India's aerospace research and indigenous technological advancement.
Major General R K Suresh, SC**, SM, one of India's highly decorated Army veterans, was felicitated for his exceptional gallantry, distinguished military service and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation.
BCIC also honoured Dr. B S Srinath, Senior Surgical Oncologist and Managing Trustee of Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, in recognition of his outstanding contribution towards making world-class cancer care affordable and accessible to thousands of patients.
Also Read: PM Modi Led Manufacturing Initiatives: Make in India, PLI & More
Recognising his pioneering work in promoting sustainable nutrition and reviving India's traditional food systems, the Chamber felicitated Padma Shri Dr. Khader Valli Dudekula, renowned food scientist and agricultural expert, for championing millet-based nutrition and healthy living.
Also Read: NVIDIA's AI Empire: Building the Platforms Behind Intelligence
Speaking after assuming office as President, CA K Ravi says, “It is a privilege to lead BCIC at such a defining moment in its history as we celebrate 50 years of service to industry. BCIC has always been a trusted voice for business and a valued partner to government. As we begin this new journey, we will work to strengthen industry-government collaboration, promote innovation, support MSMEs, encourage global partnerships, and create greater opportunities for businesses across Karnataka. Together, we will build on BCIC's rich legacy while preparing our members for the opportunities and challenges of the future.”
Senior Vice President, Dr. Prashanth Reddy says, “BCIC has earned tremendous respect over the past five decades through its commitment to industry, policy advocacy and collaborative leadership. I look forward to working closely with our President, office bearers and members to further strengthen the Chamber's engagement with industry, government and academia while helping create a more competitive and future-ready business ecosystem.”
Also Read: 5 FTAs Strengthening India’s Growth Prospects in 2026 & Beyond
Reflecting on his tenure as President of BCIC, Prashant Gokhale says, “It has been a privilege to serve BCIC during a period of significant engagement with industry, government and our members. Over the past year, we have strengthened the Chamber's role as a trusted voice for business through meaningful policy advocacy, knowledge-sharing initiatives and industry collaborations."
"As BCIC enters its Golden Jubilee year, I am confident that under the leadership of CA K Ravi and the new Management Committee, the Chamber will continue to scale greater heights and further strengthen its contribution to Karnataka's economic growth and industrial development,” adds Prashant.
F R Singhvi, Joint Managing Director of Sansera Engineering Limited, shared his perspectives on India's evolving manufacturing landscape, industrial competitiveness and the opportunities emerging for Indian industry in an increasingly dynamic global economy. Singhvi says, "India has never been better positioned than it is today with political stability, a young workforce, global trust, and digital transformation shaping its future. But the next twenty years will decide whether we truly become a developed nation. No country has achieved that without a strong manufacturing base. Service creates wealth, but manufacturing creates jobs, innovation, exports, and national security.