August 02, 2025
Lifestyle Exhibition 'Minervas' - Powered By Women 2025
The City of Joy recently witnessed the successful conclusion of the third iteration of a distinctive art and lifestyle exhibition, 'MINERVAS', held under the auspices of the Calcutta Chamber of Commerce Ladies Forum (CCCLF). This initiative, meticulously orchestrated by women for women, aims to promote the cause of female entrepreneurship.
Approximately thirty women entrepreneurs participated, showcasing an extensive array of lifestyle products, including gemstones and jewelry, aromatic candles, women's fashion apparel, leather goods featuring a wide selection of ladies' bags, mobile phone carriers, food items, utility household products, wedding photography, pranic healing services, wellness offerings, gifts, and more. A notable highlight of this Business-to-Consumer (B2C) meeting was the presentation of a diverse range of products crafted by marginalized women from the Sundarbans region. The Hyde & Chiique brand, engaged in the manufacture and export of leather goods, displayed an exclusive collection of leather items such as purses, bags, and mobile phone carriers. Furthermore, the Bono Bondhu Parishad Mahila Samiti Kolkata Chapter showcased various edible products, textiles, and other goods produced by tribal communities. This B2C meeting provided an exceptional platform for women entrepreneurs to market their offerings in anticipation of the Rakshabandhan and forthcoming festival seasons, including Ganesh Puja, Durga Puja, and Diwali. Consequently, the B2C meeting unveiled new prospects for numerous women entrepreneurs.
July 23, 2025
Blogging for Your Business - Two-Hour Masterclass for Entrepreneurs and working professionals
The session was spearheaded by Mr. Kishore Nag and Ms. Brinda Das, Directors at Techwala K3 Solutions, and brought together entrepreneurs, business owners, and marketing professionals for a deep dive into modern content-driven strategies.
The two-hour session outlined the growing importance of blogging as a foundational pillar of digital marketing. Mr. Kishore Nag elaborated on the power of slow marketing and how blogging contributes slowly and sustainably towards improving visibility, trust-building, and sustained customer engagement. He highlighted how blogs serve as a business's voice on the internet—enhancing brand credibility, and supporting long-term organizational goals and future vision.
Ms. Brinda Das presented actionable insights on how SEO is evolving and how businesses can integrate AI into the content creation workflow—streamlining ideation, personalization, and data-driven optimization. She explained the different keyword variations and how to seamlessly integrate them with our business blogs can enhance an organization's reach and visibility while ensuring alignment with search engine algorithms and user expectations.
The session also touched upon advanced SEO techniques, the evolving role of E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness), and how blogging, when approached strategically, acts as a powerful asset for business growth.
Participants lauded the workshop for its relevance and clarity, and many shared plans to adopt or upgrade their content marketing efforts. The Chamber continues to focus on bringing such industry-relevant sessions to empower businesses in the digital era.
July 08, 2025
TDS Laws You must know - Directly From the top TDS Authorities
Shri Mayank Priyadarshi, IRS, Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (TDS), Kolkata and Dr. Raghuveer Madanappa, IRS, Commissioner of Income Tax (TDS), Kolkata were Guests of Honour.
Shri Mayank Priyadarshi, Chief Commissioner of the Income Tax Department, Kolkata Zone, said, 'The new tax code that the central government is introducing for income tax, in which the rules for tax deduction at source or TDS are being significantly eased. The rules related to TDS are set to be halved.' He stated, "As far as we know, the number of words in the rules related to TDS has been reduced from 14,000 to 7,000." As a result, he claimed that it will be much easier to comply with the rules or regulations of income tax. The Chief Commissioner further remarked, "Just as changes have been made in the income tax structure, tax rates have been altered in the interest of taxpayers; similarly, the TDS rate has also been modified and simplified. In some instances, the rate has been reduced from 1 percent to 0.1 percent."
He claimed, "The Income Tax Department is considering further measures to simplify the TDS rate and rules. Where TDS used to account for 30 percent of the total tax collected 10 years ago, it has now risen to 45 percent. He asserted that an increasing number of transactions have been brought under TDS in recent years. As a result, the number of legitimate transactions has also increased, he stated. The Chief Commissioner further remarked, "The number of legitimate transactions has risen due to the GST and TDS system." However, he acknowledged that some issues related to TDS have also emerged. The Chief Commissioner noted, 'At one time, the documents related to TDS were on paper. Subsequently, it transitioned to an online system. However, reconciling paper documents with digital or online documents has not always been feasible. Providing an example, he said, "If a discount or exemption is given when purchasing a product, it is considered a commission under the Income Tax Act. These concepts create a gap between the taxpayer and the tax collector and lead to legal complications. Nevertheless, Mayank Priyadarshi asserted that the Income Tax Department is endeavouring to resolve this issue fairly.
Dr. Raghuveer Madanappa, Commissioner of Income Tax (TDS), clarified in his presentation that the provisions of TDS will undergo significant changes that will be applicable from April 2025. It was proposed to enhance the threshold limits for various TDS sections for both individuals and businesses. The threshold for TDS on interest received by senior citizens was increased to Rs 1 lakh from the previous limit of Rs. 50,000. Dr. Raghuveer Madanappa added, 'Similarly, the thresholds for rent and commissions were also increased. A Parliamentary committee reviewing the new Income Tax Bill has recommended that the Ministry of Finance should permit individual taxpayers to file returns and claim TDS refunds beyond the deadline without penalties. If a taxpayer fails to file TDS or TCS (Tax Collected at Source) returns on time, they will face penalties.'
May 30, 2025
Vision for Viksit Bharat
Shri Rakesh Mohan, Hon'ble President Emeritus and Distinguished Fellow, Centre for Social and Economic Progress & Member, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister was the Guest of Honour.
Shri Rakesh Mohan, Hon'ble President Emeritus and Distinguished Fellow at the Centre for Social and Economic Progress, and Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, was the Guest of Honour.
Mr. Rakesh Mohan, former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and a member of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, stated, 'To increase exports, which is one of the components of economic development, India should look at Asian countries'. In the next 20-25 years, 40-50 percent of growth is expected to come from Asian countries. Mohan remarked, *whatever we do, we compare ourselves with the Western world. It has become our tradition to look at Western countries in every field. It should be noted that the Western economy is declining. Asia is set to become the centre of economic development in the next 20-25 years.'
Although India's service sector is growing at a rapid rate, Emeritus Mohan, President of the Centre for Social and Economic Progress, expressed disappointment with the slow pace of the manufacturing sector. He said, 'It is certainly a joy that the country's service sector is growing rapidly. However, for the overall growth of an economy, the development of the manufacturing sector is essential. The growth of India's manufacturing sector is very poor.' When a country develops, its services and manufacturing sectors grow in tandem, leading to a reduced dependence on agriculture. This scenario is not evident in the case of India, he noted. In his words, 'As long as the industrial sector does not grow well, we will not see higher growth overall. This is the biggest challenge facing India. Suitable land for industry and its high price are creating obstacles in this regard.'
Mohan has revealed that the country's industry is not investing enough in the research and development sector. In this context, he cited the example of China. In the words of this eminent economist, 'Despite the large number of workers in India, the industry's dependence on workers has not developed in that manner. Instead, the Indian industry has shown more inclination towards creating export-oriented industries.' He claims that the problem is compounded by low participation of women in the country's job market, policy and infrastructure gaps, and lack of skills. However, Mohan stated that infrastructure projects like the railway's dedicated freight corridor and the Golden Quadrilateral will pave the way for the country's progress. He said, "If the marginal areas of the country are connected by road in the next 20-30 years, it will aid in the development of the overall economy."
The eminent economist has suggested that the Centre should increase the expenditure allocation for the health sector and strengthen the education system to 'develop' India by 2070. He mentioned that if the country is to be developed, more meetings of elected representatives at both the Centre and state level will be necessary.
Mohan said, "In developed countries like the US and the UK, Parliament holds discussions for an average of 100-142 days a year. In India, Parliament meets for an average of 60 days a year. In state assemblies, it sits for an average of 22 days." However, he believes that the extensive use of data and mobile technology, along with revolutionary transaction systems like UPI, have paved the way for the success of the Indian economy and for it to reach new heights in the future. The former top bank official said, "In the US, it takes 24 hours to transfer funds from one account of the same bank to another. Charges are levied on that. In this country, funds are being transferred within seconds, which is just a manifestation of the immense power of the Indian economy
April 24, 2025
Understanding The SME IPO
Mr. Sundararaman Ramamurthy, Managing Director & CEO, BSE Limited was the Guest of Honour.
Stressing the need for investor awareness and responsibility, BSE Managing Director and CEO Sundararaman Ramamurthy said that regulations alone can't protect investors if they do not take adequate precautions, while investing. “You trade what you understand, and you understand what you trade — if you don't do that, you have a problem,” Ramamurthy said, urging investors to be vigilant and informed. He criticised the tendency of investors to rely on hearsay rather than due diligence. On regulatory expectations, the BSE chief remarked that there is a general perception that regulators are blamed when investors lose money, but when markets do well the same person praise their own knowledge.
“If you don't want to safeguard yourself, no amount of regulation can save you. Be alert,” he stressed. Addressing the issue of retail participation, Ramamurthy advised that small investors who are not market experts should opt for the mutual fund route — and even then, they should avoid thematic funds and instead choose broad-based mutual funds or large-cap funds to diversify risk. He also encouraged women and the youth to begin investing early in their careers. Highlighting the potential of India's SME sector, the BSE CEO pointed out that only about 40 companies from this region are currently listed on the stock exchange, while the actual potential could be well over 1,000. He urged more small and medium enterprises to consider listing as a viable route to raise funds and grow their business and unlock their potential. Responding to a question on possible manipulation in SME listings, Ramamurthy acknowledged that frauds such as pump-and-dump schemes could not be ruled out entirely even if regulators and stock exchanges are vigilant. He said that BSE was deploying AI and large language models on trial for initial scanning of IPO documents to detect areas of concern.
April 12, 2025
GST – KEY Issues in Return Filing
Mr. Avijit Kumar De, Assistant Commissioner, CGST & CX, Pr. CCO, Kolkata Zone, Department of Central Goods and Services Tax & Central Excise, Govt. of India and CA Shivani Agarwalla, Chartered Accountant, GST Expert, National Faculty, GST, ICAI were the Guests of Honour.
Mr. Avijit Kumar De stressed the importance of compliance and adherence to correct procedures in GST return filing. He noted that while it is the taxpayer's responsibility to ensure timely and accurate submissions, it is equally the department's duty to conduct lawful scrutiny of returns. He indicated that the session would examine common issues related to return filing, departmental scrutiny, and possible challenges during audits and investigations. He engaged the audience with an overview of procedural errors, audit preparedness and practical compliance strategies. Mr. De also assured attendees of his willingness to respond to their concerns and provide practical guidance to navigate routine interactions with GST authorities.
CA Shivani Agarwalla offered an overview of the complexities within the GST regime, which, despite being envisioned as a “Good and Simple Tax”, still presents challenges in interpretation and application. She outlined the transition from excise and service tax to GST's supply-based taxation and highlighted areas such as retrospective amendments, judicial decisions, misclassification issues and on the spot recoveries. She concluded by encouraging businesses to be well-versed in their legal rights, including the right to a fair hearing under the GST law.
March 19, 2025
Celebrating International Women's Day – Icons of Change – Masters of Resilience
Ms. Mona Sengupta, Founder Director, AHAVA Communications and CA Shivani Agarwalla, Six Time Women World Champion – Kettlebell Sports were the panelists and the Moderator of the Session was Dr. Tania Chakravertty, Dean of Student Welfare, Diamond Harbour Women's University.
The discussions centred on how continue to evolve as powerful forces of change and resilience, overcoming personal and professional obstacles to emerge as icons of change. The event served as a platform for recognizing the power of women's leadership and the impact of their resilience in shaping a more inclusive future.
Ms. Anindita Roy, Co-Founder, BE and MAKE (for the education of a tribal girl child) was presented a token amount to further promote her welfare activities including educating tribal girls.
Ms. Mona Sengupta & Ms. Shivani Agarwalla spoke about their happy childhood and growing up period as well as continuous support of parents and other family members including their life-companions in their achievements and success stories of life.
Ms. Shivani Agarwalla said that Kettlebell sport is basically a weight lifting sports. It finds its origin in Russia but now it's played as a competitive sport all other the world. She represents India and she got last gold in Belgium. She thinks for someone who's never participated in a single sport even back in school or college, being India's reigning Kettlebell queen not once, not twice but six times. Other than hard work, she is a product of good parenting and also product of good mentorship. She is practicing chartered accountant because lifting kettlebell does not pay her bills. She has come from a happy family and married to a happy person.
Ms. Mona Sengupta told that she grew up during the time, when there was no television, no internet and only entertainment was school sports and she used to learn piano and had gone to French classes. She said that books were everywhere in her house, her father inculcated deep love for reading in her. From the Oxford book stall, she purchased the books and started reading and then she realized she was an extrovert and lot of friends and reading gave her the utmost pleasure, joy, companionship and happiness.
After graduation with English honors from Loreto collage, she did double Masters in Leicester University and the University of Birmingham, shifting from English to Social Science, which were great achievements. She came back to India and joined the Statesman, then went to the Telegraph which was her amazing journey, and headed marketing & events for Apeejay Oxford Bookstores for five years which was a dream assignment. In 2012, she started Ahava Communications and decided to do some innovative and engaging work with different age groups in the city.
February 15, 2025
Special Session UNION BUDGET - 2025-26 and Its Impact on Economy
Shri Rishabh C. Khothari, CEO, CKC Fragrances and Flavours Pvt. Ltd., President, The Hindusthan Club and CA Krishna Kumar Chhaparia, Practicing Chartered Accountant were the Guest of Honour at the Session.
Shri Rishabh C. Kothari in his address said “The Union Budget 2025 strikes a balance between fiscal prudence and economic stimulus”. The increased income tax relief to the middle class, will boost consumption. The focus on infrastructure, manufacturing and FDI liberalization is a positive step toward long term growth and job creation. The government's commitment to reducing the fiscal deficit while prioritizing inclusive development reflects a responsible approach. Overall, it is a forward-looking budget that lays a strong foundation for sustained progress. Shri Kothari emphasized one needs to be discerning about inflationary effect of the budget. He said consumers spending in cities and in rural areas can be different. City dwellers will be spending on necessities while rural residents can go for more savings. He appreciated budgetary provision to promote MSMEs, Startup. Shri Kothari said various provisions in the budget are growth oriented but one needs to recognize complexities and challenges during implementation of budget.
Shri Krishna Kumar Chhaparia in his address highlighted various provisions in budget for promoting MSMEs, Startups. Shri Chhaparia spoke in detail on introduction of New Income Tax Bill in Parliament and changes in GST rules. Shri Chhaparia emphasized on merger and amalgamation provisions in the budget. He presented analysis of Union Budget as analysis of Corporate Balance Sheet in a unique style. Decriminalization of various provisions of Income Tax laws will help tax payers in a big way.
February 06, 2025
Special Session on Promoting India - Philippines Partnership
H.E. Mr. Josel Francisco Ignacio, Ambassador of the Republic of Philippines in India was the Chief Guest and the Guests of Honour were Mr. Deepak Kumar Khemka, Hony. Consul General, Republic of Philippines in Kolkata, Ms. Melissa Telan, Third Secretary and Vice Consul of the Embassy of Philippines in India and Mr. Eugenio C. Elevado, Jr., Commercial Counsellor of the Embassy of Philippines in India.
H.E. Mr. Josel Francisco Ignacio said he was very pleased to attend two day Bengal Global Business Summit 2025 in Kolkata as well as explore scope and opportunities of doing business with various corporate houses in West Bengal. Philippines and West Bengal can promote cooperation and collaboration in development of fisheries industry, especially tuna fish industry. Philippines is interested to import fish meal from West Bengal as well as other parts of India which is used as fertilizers in agriculture.
Philippines issue e-Visa to Indians and it is fully operational and any Indian can apply for e-Visa from anywhere in India. Philippines is interested to welcome Indians tourists.
Around May, 2025 direct flight between India-Manila route is expected to begin which will be operated by Air India has stated by H.E. Mr. Josel Francisco Ignacio.
Philippines and India have relationship based on shared values such as vibrant, democratic polity, pluralistic society, rule of law, and independent judiciary, free space and the wide spread use of the English language.
Philippines has recently taken over the three-year rotating “Country Coordinator-ship” of ASEAN India relations. Philippines appreciates India's recognition of ASEAN Centrality. India and Philippines multi-dimensional defence cooperation is deeping with sell of Brahmos missiles by India to Philippines.
India's act east policy initiative in 2014 boosted the relationship with Philippines as well as diversified into political security, trade and industry and people to people relation. With evolving security needs of Philippines - India cooperation in areas of foreign policy, security, defence, trade, finance, tourism, health, agriculture, people to people relations and culture are expected to deepen and strengthen.
January 16, 2025
Special Session Traditional Investing VS Dynamic Investing - new Paradigm
Mr. Sandeep Tandon, Founder & Chief Investment Officer, Quant Mutual Fund was the Guest of Honour.
Shri Sandeep Tandon in his address said in evolving socio-cultural, economic scenario, investment in flexible return financial products are better option than traditional financial products like fixed deposit or real estate. Shri Tandon suggested one needs to plan one's short, medium, long term investment taking into consideration one's short, medium, long term objectives of live and needs.
In financial market, wide range of flexible return financial products are available. Shri Tandon suggested one needs to do proper analysis before investing. While investing in any high return flexible financial product one should consider various risk factors also.
August 02, 2025