Pics: Nithin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)
Udupi, Jul 19: The Karavali Christian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (R), Udupi, inaugurated its new registered office and organized a business startup awareness programme along with a members' family get-together at Mandavi Sabha Bhavana, Mandavi Trade Centre, Kadiyali, on Sunday evening.
The newly registered office was inaugurated by Santhosh D'Silva in the presence of KCCCI president Alwyn Quadros, members of the board of directors and office-bearers. Fr Vijay D'Souza, principal of St Mary's English Medium School, Udupi, blessed the new office.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, joint director of the District Industries Centre (DIC), Udupi, Seetharam Shetty said, "This is a happy occasion. I have been working in the industries sector in Udupi for the past 30 years and have seen several industrial and business associations grow. I hope KCCCI also continues to achieve greater success. The Industrial Policy for 2025-2030 has been introduced and outlines the benefits available to entrepreneurs. More than 56,000 businesses have already been registered under the policy. The policy gives major importance to MSMEs through different classifications. Earlier Udupi had three taluks, but now there are seven, which have been divided into Zone 1 and Zone 2 for implementing various schemes and benefits."
Industrialist and former president of the Udupi District Small Industries Association, John R D'Silva, said, "I have been associated with KCCCI since its inception. I know the struggles entrepreneurs face because I experienced them myself. I was once a sportsperson and worked in the Railways through the sports quota, but I resigned from my government job to become an entrepreneur and contribute to the growth of our community. I have witnessed the remarkable development of KCCCI over the years, and I acknowledge the efforts of Dr Jerry Vincent Dias in building this association. We believe in sharing knowledge rather than keeping business secrets. Associations like these help entrepreneurs solve problems, receive guidance from experts and government departments, and grow together. It is always better to be part of an association than to struggle alone."
Welcoming the gathering, KCCCI president Alwyn Quadros said, "I would like to acknowledge Dr Jerry Vincent Dias, whose vision was to establish an office for the association. Many activities were carried out from our earlier office near Court Road, and today we are happy to inaugurate our new registered office in this building. Over the last 14 years, KCCCI has worked for the welfare and development of the Christian business community. Since our formation in 2012, our membership has grown from 30 to more than 180 members. I warmly welcome our new members. I thank our board of directors for their continuous guidance and support. Through initiatives such as the Prerana Awards, we have recognized and encouraged achievers from our community. This is our second major programme of the year, and along with the office inauguration, we are conducting a startup awareness program to help entrepreneurs understand various government policies and business opportunities."
The programme was organized under the leadership of KCCCI president Alwyn Quadros, general secretary Wilson D'Souza and treasurer Maxim S Saldanha.
Joy Fernandes led the opening prayer. Alwyn Quadros welcomed the gathering, Alwyn Andrade compered the program, and Wilson D'Souza proposed the vote of thanks. Members, entrepreneurs, industrialist.