KalimNews, Kalimpong, February 5, 2025 : The 8th edition of the Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) commenced today, February 5, 2025, in Kolkata. The event, which will continue until February 6, brings together policymakers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders from across the globe to foster strategic alliances, highlight key business sectors, and explore the industrial ecosystem of West Bengal. This year’s summit will be held at two prominent venues: the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in New Town and Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan in Salt Lake.
The Biswa Bangla Convention Centre is set to host the global inaugural session, along with country-specific sessions involving delegates from 20 participating foreign nations. The venue will also be the site of business discussions aimed at strengthening international and domestic business ties. Meanwhile, the Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan will feature an extensive exhibition with 225 stalls, showcasing local and international businesses and startups, creating a dynamic platform for networking and business growth.
This year’s summit is particularly significant for Kalimpong, as two local entrepreneurs have been provided with stalls by the Department to display their businesses for the first time at this prestigious event. Mr. Nitesh Sharma, a drone and power electronics manufacturer, and Mr. Gideon Lepcha, an AI and technology entrepreneur, both from Kalimpong, are proudly representing the region. Mr. Sharma’s stall is located at Hall A, Stall No. 25, while Mr. Lepcha’s stall is at Hall A, Stall No. 95 at the Mela Prangan venue. Their participation marks a significant milestone, as Kalimpong makes its debut at a global business summit of this scale. Their involvement is a testament to the growing entrepreneurial spirit in the region, and local residents hope this opportunity will bring greater visibility and business prospects for Kalimpong.
Additionally, Mukesh Sharma, an accredited journalist from Kalimpong, is also attending the summit for the first time, further adding to the region’s presence at this important event. As a key member of the local media, his attendance highlights the importance of the summit for the broader community and its coverage on a global stage.
West Bengal continues to establish itself as a hub of industrial and economic growth. The state is home to the largest leather complex, hosiery park, and foundry park in India, as well as significant railway manufacturing units producing wagons, metro coaches, and passenger coaches. The state has also garnered attention for its progressive role in MSME development, with bank lending to MSMEs reaching a record Rs. 1.48 lakh crore in the fiscal year 2023-24. In addition, the region is now home to India’s largest logistic hub, a result of its strategic geographical positioning.
The Bengal Global Business Summit is the flagship initiative of the Government of West Bengal, aimed at providing a global stage for networking, collaboration, and showcasing the state’s diverse industrial capabilities. BGBS 2025 will feature plenary sessions, sectoral discussions, and B2B and B2G meetings, focusing on key areas such as advanced manufacturing, circular economy, defence manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, health, IT, tourism, and infrastructure, among others. The event aims to promote sustainable, citizen-centric business practices while addressing global challenges through innovation and collaboration.
Among the distinguished guests expected at the summit are Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, and industrial giants such as Mukesh Ambani, who will be sharing their insights on business and economic development. The summit also invites accredited journalists, including Mukesh Sharma from Kalimpong, further reinforcing the significance of this event for local media and its coverage on a global scale.
As the summit continues to unfold, the people of Kalimpong look forward to witnessing the growth and opportunities it brings, both for their local entrepreneurs and the broader business community in West Bengal. The participation of Kalimpong’s entrepreneurs marks a proud moment for the region, and it is hoped that such global exposure will lead to greater business opportunities and partnerships, contributing to the economic growth of the area.
