Harsh Mariwala, chairman and managing director of Marico Ltd, took over as President of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Ficci) at the conclusion of its 83rd annual general meeting here.
R V Kanoria, CMD, Kanoria Chemicals and Industries, has been elected Senior Vice President. Naina Lal Kidwai, Group General Manager and Country Head, HSBC, is the new Vice President.
Addressing the conference, Mariwala said, “Ficci has grown from Rs 10 crore to Rs 100 crore over the last 10 years and is set to witness major transformation in the coming future, with thrust on manufacturing and skill development. We aim to take Ficci to much greater heights during our tenure.”
Adding: “Introduction of a Goods and Services Tax (GST) will substantially add to GDP. Ficci will act as a conduit in convincing the state governments and will help them in overcoming unnecessary fears and apprehensions regarding it. In a long-term goal, it is beneficial for all stakeholders and the entire country, just like the Value Added Tax. The other area of focus would be to address issues of food shortage by increasing the productivity of agriculture.
Said Mariwala: “Seeing the uncertain weather conditions and rising food inflation, it’s important to ensure good agricultural productivity. Productivity here is much lower as compared to the world. About 50 per cent of edible oil is imported. Also, there is urgent need for a food security policy.”
