The India–Japan Business Meet 2025, a significant event aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two nations, wrapped up successfully in Pune on Sunday. Organized by the newly formed Progressive Council of Commerce & Industry (PCC&I), the meet marked its conclusion with the official launch of both the PCC&I council and Lord Buddha Finance Ltd. (LBFL).
Bridging Resources with Advanced Technology
Dr. Pramod Vahane, the Tokyo-based CEO of Vahanez Ltd., outlined the core vision behind the initiative. He stated that the primary goal is to forge new economic pathways by strategically integrating India's abundant natural and human resources with Japan's advanced, though sometimes less-publicized, technologies. Dr. Vahane emphasized that PCC&I will play a crucial role in mentoring young Indian entrepreneurs, guiding them to understand and adopt Japan's renowned industrial discipline and management practices. This guidance is designed to help them build ventures that can compete effectively on the global stage.
A Focus on Green Energy and Rural Empowerment
N. Dowaki, CEO of Green Renewable Energy Inc., who attended as a special guest, spotlighted the urgent global demand for eco-friendly solutions. He pointed to green hydrogen as the next major driver in the shift towards sustainable energy. Dowaki highlighted existing collaborative projects between India and Japan, including innovative technology that can generate hydrogen directly from waste materials.
Dr. Bhagwan Gawai, President of PCC&I and Managing Director of LBFL, explained that the council was established fundamentally to support emerging business talent. He revealed that PCC&I has already undertaken a substantial 45-day Economic Empowerment Campaign, spanning 45 districts across 10 Indian states. This campaign was conducted to collect vital data and gain a deeper understanding of the needs and challenges faced by entrepreneurs at the grassroots level. Dr. Gawai stated that the new platform will act as a convergence point for technology, funding, mentorship, and innovation to build durable business partnerships. Importantly, its focus will extend beyond metropolitan areas to include semi-urban and rural regions.
Sustained Mentorship for Long-Term Growth
Vishakha Gaikwad, Director of the PCC&I Women’s Wing, reinforced that the conference is not an isolated event but the start of a continuous support system. She described it as the beginning of sustained mentorship for young entrepreneurs, aimed at connecting them to global markets and credible investment channels. This effort is seen as a key strategy to reduce prevailing economic disparities. The event proceedings were smoothly conducted by Prof. Deepak Bagde and Dr. Vijay Kadam, with Gaikwad delivering the formal vote of thanks.
