In front of prominent legislators, business executives, and officials from international corporations, the Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce (AICC) today launched the India Supplier Diversity Program (ISDP) at the India International Center in New Delhi. By incorporating micro, small, and medium-sized firms (MSMEs) into the global supply chain ecosystem, particularly those owned by women and those from underprivileged communities, this program is a significant step toward promoting inclusive economic growth.
Along with Rajkumar Sangwan (MP, Skill Development) and Mithilesh Kumar (MP, Uttar Pradesh), Chief Guest Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Skill Development, graced the launch event. They highlighted the critical role MSMEs play in forming India’s economy and their potential to contribute to international trade networks.
The “missing middle”—a group of small and medium-sized businesses that have trouble with scalability, certification, and access to foreign markets—is the focus of the India Supplier Diversity Program (ISDP). Indian MSMEs will receive the certifications and resources they need through ISDP in order to comply with international regulations and become more visible to major multinational firms.
Leading international companies who understand the importance of a diverse and inclusive supply chain, such as Sanofi, Johnson & Johnson, Micron, Regeneron, Citibank, Radian, and others, support the project.
The program’s leaders, Rajeev Krishna, President of ISDP, and Komal Dangi, President of AICC, are dedicated to promoting a more inclusive economy and increasing opportunities for small enterprises. Another key figure in advancing this effort is Rakhi Agarwal, VP, Global Head of Supplier Diversity and Procurement Risk at Sanofi.
Key Features of ISDP
• Certified Supplier Database – MSMEs will be integrated into a global database to enhance their accessibility for corporate procurement teams.
• Mentorship & Technical Assistance – Structured programs to help businesses improve operational efficiency and meet international quality standards.
• B2B Matchmaking & Trade Delegations – Direct engagement opportunities between Indian MSMEs, multinational corporations, government procurement agencies, and global trade organizations.
• Adoption of International Best Practices – Aligning with global supplier diversity frameworks such as the Billion Dollar Roundtable (BDR) to ensure that Indian suppliers meet global procurement benchmarks.
Rajeev Krishna, President of ISDP: “A strong supplier diversity program benefits not just small businesses but the entire economy. ISDP is a significant step toward greater inclusion and innovation.”
Komal Dangi, President of AICC: “Supplier diversity creates new pathways for growth. ISDP will help Indian small businesses gain access to global supply chains and scale their impact.”
Rakhi Agarwal, VP, Global Head of Supplier Diversity and Procurement Risk at Sanofi: “This initiative is about unlocking opportunities for diverse businesses and ensuring they have a fair chance to compete in the global market.”
The launch event saw the participation of government officials, corporate leaders, industry associations, financial institutions, and chamber representatives, all united in their commitment to strengthening India’s SME sector.
By bridging the gap between MSMEs and global corporations, ISDP is set to create new economic opportunities and drive sustainable growth. As India positions itself as a global economic powerhouse, initiatives like ISDP will play a pivotal role in fostering a resilient, inclusive, and innovation-driven supply chain.
ISDP is now open for supplier registrations and corporate partnerships.
