Srinagar, May 11: Bharti Enterprises Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal on Sunday called on Indian industry to step up investments in the country, reduce dependence on imports, and accelerate the transition towards renewable energy amid global economic uncertainties.
Speaking at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) event after receiving a special honour, Mittal expressed gratitude and reflected on the role played by industry chambers in shaping national policy and supporting economic growth.
“It is a great pleasure to receive this honour,” Mittal said, recalling his long association with CII and his interactions with policymakers during challenging phases of the telecom sector.
Describing CII as a “very special place,” Mittal said the chamber works closely with society and stakeholders to build a policy framework that helps move the country forward.
Mittal also highlighted his family’s long association with industry bodies, noting that his brothers had served in leadership roles in CII and FICCI. He encouraged young entrepreneurs and business leaders to actively participate in chambers of commerce and contribute to policy discussions.
“The government looks towards chambers, especially a chamber like CII, to work closely with them and guide their policy framework,” he said.
Referring to the current global economic situation and tensions in the Middle East, Mittal said India could not remain insulated from international challenges despite maintaining strong economic growth.
“These are difficult times. India has been growing at 6 to 7 per cent year after year, and generally things are looking very good. But there are situations beyond anybody’s control,” he said.
Echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent message to industry, Mittal said businesses must play a larger role in supporting the economy by generating employment, investing domestically, and cutting avoidable imports.
“We need to get away from this obsession with import of gold. We need to lower our energy costs and move faster towards renewable energy,” he said.
Mittal stressed that this was not the time for companies to slow investments but to “double down” on India’s long-term growth story.
Highlighting investments by Bharti Airtel, he said the company spent nearly Rs 31,000 crore in capital expenditure during 2024-25, with an additional Rs 7,000 crore invested through its tower subsidiary. He added that investments were expected to rise further in the coming financial year.
“This is a continent of consumers, a large young population wanting more products and services. Let’s give them more from India — make in India, from India, serving India,” Mittal said.
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