Expert Speaks
Plenary Session 1: Procurement for a Sustainable Future
Plenary Session 1 focused on the transformative role of procurement as a strategic driver of sustainable development. Bringing together leaders from government, international organizations, and the private sector, the session highlighted how procurement systems can shape markets and supply chains that are environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically resilient. Moderated by Dr. Shailly Kedia of TERI, the panel featured Ms. Mercy Epao (Ministry of MSME, Government of India), Mr. Sanjay Kumar (NEXGEN Procurement Solutions), and Ms. Anne-Claire Howard (UNOPS). The discussion underscored the importance of integrating sustainability into procurement practices, promoting MSME participation, and strengthening responsible supply chains globally. The session offered valuable insights into leveraging procurement as a powerful tool for inclusive growth and long-term sustainability.
Plenary Session 3: From Policy to Practice – Procurement as an Enabler of Development
Plenary Session 3 focused on bridging the gap between procurement policy and its real-world implementation, highlighting procurement as a critical enabler of development. The session emphasized how effective procurement systems can enhance performance, ensure probity, and deliver greater public value, particularly in the context of India’s expanding infrastructure landscape. Moderated by Ajit Mishra of IRCON International Limited, the discussion underscored the need for procurement frameworks that are transparent, efficient, and outcome-oriented rather than process-driven. The panel featured Padma Jaiswal (Government of NCT Delhi), Jesper Pedersen (Asian Development Bank), and K. Subramaniam (Comptroller and Auditor General of India).The session provided a comprehensive perspective on strengthening procurement governance, improving accountability, and aligning procurement practices with broader development objectives. It reinforced the importance of translating robust policy frameworks into effective execution to drive sustainable and inclusive growth.
Day 1 Inaugral Session - 11th Global Procurement Summit, 2026
The All India Management Association (AIMA), in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, and the World Bank, organised the 11th Global Procurement Summit on 4–5 February 2026 at Le Meridien New Delhi under the theme “From Vision to Value: Operationalizing Strategic Procurement for Impact.” The inaugural session featured a Special Address by Shri V. Vualnam, Secretary, Department of Expenditure, followed by the Welcome Address by Ms. Rekha Sethi, Director General, AIMA, followed by the Keynote Address by Ms. Aarti Mehra, Deputy Country Director, Asian Development Bank, followed by a Special Address by Mr. Mihir Kumar, CEO, Government e-Marketplace, and followed by the Theme Address by Mr. Shanker Lal, Lead Procurement Specialist, World Bank. The session concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Rohit Singh.
