About Laghuswapna

The Laghuswapna event on the “Local to Global: Strategies for MSMEs” is a dynamic platform designed to address the critical challenges and opportunities faced by Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in their journey from local success to global significance brings together industry leaders, policymakers, experts and MSME representatives to foster knowledge exchange, collaboration and actionable strategies for sustainable growth.

Laghuswapna is an annual flagship program wherein industries and the St. John College of Engineering and Management – MMS Department deliberate opportunities and challenges for MSME industries in this region.

Every year, the college conducts Laghuswapna on a different theme. The purpose of this mega-event is for industries to participate and discuss their issues. Not only did they get an opportunity to participate, but also get a chance to meet high-profile people from different organisations. In addition, companies learn about the young graduates who can work for them in the future. Also, students get a chance to interact with industry professionals.

Benefits of Laghuswapna

It is important for companies as it provides them with a platform to network with potential customers, partners, investors, and industry professionals.

This event provides a unique opportunity for companies to showcase their products and services to a wide range of attendees, helping them to build their brand and gain recognition in the industry.

The event also allows companies to build relationships with other companies, which can help them develop partnerships and gain access to valuable resources.

On this platform, students benefit from the knowledge and experience shared by the industry experts, and the industrialists get an opportunity to interact with young, bright minds – potential future employees.

Objectives:

• Knowledge Exchange: Facilitate a forum for MSMEs to share insights, experiences, and best practices in navigating local and global markets.
• Networking and Collaboration: Foster meaningful connections between MSMEs, potential investors, industry experts, and government representatives to stimulate collaboration and partnerships.
• Policy Advocacy: Facilitate discussions on policy frameworks that support the growth and internationalization of MSMEs.
• Capacity Building: Empower small businesses with the knowledge and tools to adapt to changing global requirements.
• Showcasing Innovations: Highlight success stories of MSMEs that have successfully transitioned from local to global markets.

Event Structure:

The event spans over four hours and features –

• Keynote addresses from industry leaders and thought influencers.
• Panel discussions covering a range of topics related to MSME growth, globalization, and resilience.
• Interactive workshops and masterclasses led by experts in global business.
• Networking sessions, exhibition areas, and business matchmaking opportunities.

We were indeed privileged to have with us some eminent personalities for this event:

1. Chief Guest: Mr. Atul C. Kulkarni, EX CEO Chowghule Ports & Infrastructure, Management and Strategy Consultant, New Mumbai.
2. Guest of Honour: Mr. Upendra Sangale, General Manager, District Industries Centre (DIC) Palghar.
3. President of TIMA, Mr. Velji Gogri.
4. Secretary of Laghu Udyog Bharti, Boisar., Mr.Birendra Thakur.
5. President of Dahanu Industry Manufacturers Association, Mr. Satish Parekh.
6. Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Mumbai, Dr. Suhas Pednekar.
7. Group Director at Welingkar Institute of Management, Dr. Uday Salunkhe.
8. President of Vasai Industries Association, Mr. Anil Amberdekar.
9. Chairman of Aldel Education Trust, Mr. Albert W. Dsouza.
10. Secretary of the Trust, Mrs. Elvina Dsouza.
11. Treasurer of the Trust, Mrs. Elaine Dsouza Buthello.
12. Member of the Trust, Mr. Aldridge Dsouza.
13. Deputy Campus Director, Dr. Savita Tauro.

We also had the following distinguished panellists to discuss Local to Global: Strategies for MSMEs:

Moderator: Mr. Ashish Patankar, Owner, Wire Rings: First generation business. Manufacturing a Bearing part namely Snap Rings/ Retaining Rings for all the Bearings industries in India and exporting to Europe and USA directly.

Panelist 1: Mr. S. L. Sharma, Managing Director – BIC Chemicals and Packaging Pvt. Ltd.

Panelist 2: Mr. Raghavendra Rao, Deputy General Manager – Karnataka Bank Ltd.

Panelist 3: Mr. Mohit Sodani, Head – International Business, Jyothy Laboratory Ltd.

Panelist 4: Mr. Mihir Shah, Consultant, Advisor & Trainer, International Business