Federation of Associations of Maharashtra { FAM }

 Pritesh K Shah

Director General ~ *FAM*

Hosts Inaugural

 FAM BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS-2025

 Hosts Inaugural

 *FAM BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS-2025* 

Mumbai, February 28, 2025:

 The Federation of Associations of Maharashtra { FAM }, the apex body representing over 700+ trade and industry associations across Maharashtra, successfully hosted the inaugural FAM BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS-2025 , This landmark event celebrated excellence, innovation, and outstanding contributions across various industries and trade sectors in the state.

Held at Aurika Hotel, 

Opp T 2 International Airport, Andheri East ,Mumbai .

The grand awards ceremony witnessed the presence of over 600+ distinguished guests  from across Maharashtra representing various trade associations , Most important presence as the Chief Guest was of  Cabinet Minister Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha and Chairman of the National Traders Welfare Board, Sunil Singhji. Other Eminent personalities Shri Raj Purohit, Shri Atul Shah, Shri Sharad Petiwala , Shri Aakash purohit and Walid Hareb AlFalahi from the UAE Consulate also graced the occasion. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal joined virtually and delivered a compelling speech, recognizing FAM’s significant role in Maharashtra’s trade and industry development.

*FAM President Jitendra Shah* Unveils a New Vision for Trade and Industry

FAM President Jitendra Shah delivered a stirring and powerful speech that mesmerized the audience, outlining FAM’s renewed vision. He emphasized that while FAM has been a pillar of support in resolving trade issues for over five decades, the time has come to go beyond problem-solving and actively create new business opportunities for Maharashtra’s trade and industry.

He reassured FAM’s unwavering commitment to all trade and industry associations across Maharashtra, pledging that FAM will always stand by them. In return, he urged all associations to reciprocate their support and work collectively toward a stronger, more prosperous business ecosystem.

Jitendra Shah also took the opportunity to express his heartfelt gratitude to FAM’s 

*Elite Partners*, whose invaluable support contributed to the success of the event:

• SVARYU ENERGY LTD

• CHAMPAK STEEL & ENGINEERING CO.

• SKM STEEL LTD

• PUNIT YARN AGENCY

• IDBI Bank

He also extended his thanks to all *Allied Partners*, recognizing their contributions in making the event a historic milestone.

*FAM Mitra Awards* – Recognizing Key Contributors

• Union Minister *Piyush Goyal* was conferred the FAM Mitra Award for his unwavering support to the trade and industry sector. In his virtual speech, he praised FAM’s proactive role in addressing key issues and advocated for stronger collaboration to further Maharashtra’s business growth.

State Cabinet Minister *Mangal Prabhat Lodha* received the FAM Vyapar Mitra Award – Minister (State) for his dedication to resolving trade issues. He commended FAM’s leadership and assured his full support. He also announced a major initiative—monthly meetings with key officials at Mantralaya, beginning with the first meeting on March 7, 2025.

Maharashtra’s GST Commissioner *Asheesh Sharma* was honored with the FAM Vyapar Mitra Award – *Best Bureaucrat*, recognizing his efforts in streamlining tax administration and supporting trade development.

*FAM Vyapar Mitra Award* – Best Supporting Association (Mumbai) was conferred upon Metal & Stainless Steel Merchants’ Association (*MASSMA*) for their outstanding contributions and collaboration in trade and industry development.

*FAM Vyapar Mitra   Award* – Best Supporting Association (Mofussil) was awarded to The Grain, Rice & Oilseeds Merchants’ Association (*GROMA*), Vashi, for their exceptional leadership in representing the interests of traders in Maharashtra’s agricultural sector.

*FAM Samaj Ratna Award* – Recognizing Business & Social Excellence

The FAM Samaj Ratna Award 2025 was conferred upon Shri Rajesh Shah of the Pune Merchant Association for his excellence in business and significant contributions to society. His remarkable dedication to philanthropy and community welfare was a highlight of the evening.

*Women & Young Entrepreneurs Shine*

The awards also spotlighted emerging talent, with prestigious honors for:

• FAM Women Entrepreneur of the Year

• FAM Young Entrepreneur of the Year

• FAM Best MSME of the Year

These categories generated tremendous enthusiasm, showcasing trailblazers who are shaping the future of Maharashtra’s business landscape.

*Business Excellence Awards – A Grand Celebration*

The event saw the presentation of sector-specific Business Excellence Awards across 19 industries, including:

• Textiles

• Metals (Ferrous & Non-Ferrous)

• Food & Agro Products

• Kitchenware & Houseware

• Electrical & Electronics

• Automobile & Logistics

• Drugs & Pharmaceuticals

• Gems & Jewellery

• Building Materials

• And many more…

The excitement at the venue was unmatched, with winners, industry leaders, and association members celebrating this grand recognition.

*Shri Sunil Singhji, Chairman of the National Traders Welfare Board*, praised FAM’s relentless efforts in supporting the trade and industry sector. He emphasized that FAM has the potential to expand its reach beyond Maharashtra and evolve into a national-level association, comparable to FICCI and CII. He further announced that the Government of India’s doors are always open for FAM and assured his full support. Encouraging FAM to bring forth innovative initiatives for the growth of Maharashtra’s business community, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving trade ecosystem.

*Distinguished Jury Panel*

The winners were selected by an esteemed jury panel of industry experts and thought leaders, ensuring fairness and transparency in the selection process. 

The jury Panel included :-

1. Retd. Justice K.K. Tated – Former Judge, Bombay High Court

2. Rajeev Jalota – Former Chairman, Mumbai Port Trust & Ex Gst Commissioner of Maharashtra.

3. Anant Singhania – CEO, J.K. Group

4. Rikhab Mehta – Managing Director, Mehta Tubes

5. Ajit Panicker – Past President, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Trades Association (RATA)

6. Dr. Nishant Mehta – Chartered Accountant & Financial Expert

7. Shri Jitendra Shah – Managing Director, Shah Group of Companies & President, FAM

This diverse and experienced panel ensured that the awards truly honored the most deserving businesses and individuals.

A Historic Moment for Maharashtra’s Business Community

With 207 nominations received across 19 categories, the FAM Business Excellence Awards have established a new benchmark in Maharashtra’s business community. The event reinforced FAM’s commitment to empowering businesses, fostering innovation, and recognizing outstanding contributions to trade and industry.

FAM Team’s Dedication Leads to Unprecedented Success

The entire team of FAM worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this grand event. Their dedication and collective efforts have made the FAM Business Excellence Awards – 2025 the talk of the entire industry and trade community of Maharashtra.

To commemorate this historic event, a cake-cutting ceremony was held with all FAM Committee members & distinguished guests. Every attendee was presented with a FAM souvenirs , symbolizing a lasting memory of this grand celebration.

A detailed list of award winners is attached.