Fri Jun 27 19:52:00 UTC 2025: ## Coimbatore Conclave Highlights Emerging Defense Ecosystem, Global Trade Challenges
**Coimbatore, June 28, 2025** – A new ecosystem is taking shape in India’s defense sector, driven by increased private industry participation, according to R. Nandini, former chairperson of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Southern Region. Speaking at the inauguration of *The Hindu businessline* MSME Growth Conclave – Coimbatore 2025 on Friday, Nandini emphasized the pivotal role of micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) in navigating a complex international landscape.
Highlighting a shift in government policy and entrepreneurial mindset, Nandini pointed out the growing contribution of startups, MSMEs, and technology innovators to national security and defense production. Coimbatore, with its strengths in engineering, manufacturing, and high-precision industries, is well-positioned to benefit from this transition. She also emphasized the importance of showcasing Coimbatore’s strong collaboration with Germany on a global stage.
Raghuvir Srinivasan, Editor of *The Hindu businessline*, noted the expansion of the MSME conclave, traditionally held in Bengaluru, to Coimbatore for its fifth edition. The event featured panel discussions on “Delivering a Big Bang (on defence supplies)” and “Navigating Global Trade Disruptions.”
A key highlight was a fireside chat between Ajay Srivastava, founder of the Global Trade Research Initiative, and Aarathi Krishnan, Consulting Editor of *The Hindu businessline*. They discussed free trade agreements, the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s social media activity, and the trade relationship between the U.S. and India.
The conclave, powered by Janatics and HDFC Bank, saw participation from various associate partners across the banking, real estate, and educational sectors.
First Piper 