The first day of the CII GreenPro Summit 2026 concluded with the presentation of the prestigious GreenPro Awards, recognising organisations that have demonstrated leadership in developing environmentally preferable products and embedding sustainability across their manufacturing and business operations. The awards honoured 143 organisations for their efforts in advancing green innovation, responsible production practices, and environmental stewardship across diverse sectors. The recognition highlighted the growing role of industry-led sustainability initiatives in supporting India’s transition towards a low-carbon economy.
The GreenPro Awards ceremony was attended by Madhuri Misal, Hon’ble Minister of State, Urban Development Department, Government of Maharashtra; Pratik D Bharne, Regional Director, Central Pollution Control Board, Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India; Kamal Bali, Chairman, CII GreenPro Council; Dr Poorva Keskar, Past Chair, CII-IGBC Pune Chapter; and Tushar Yeole, Co-Chairman, CII-IGBC Pune Chapter.
The dignitaries emphasised that addressing climate change requires coordinated action from governments, industries, and citizens. They highlighted the importance of sustainable manufacturing, green product adoption, innovation, and transparent certification systems in accelerating India’s environmental goals.
Speaking at the valedictory session of the summit, Smt Misal said reducing the nation’s carbon footprint requires collective participation from all stakeholders. She noted that while governments are introducing policies and incentives to promote renewable energy, waste management, recycling, and cleaner technologies, long-term environmental progress depends on widespread adoption of sustainable practices by businesses and individuals.
She highlighted the importance of encouraging the production and use of environmentally friendly products and suggested that policy measures, including possible reductions in GST on sustainable products, could help improve affordability and increase market adoption of green alternatives.
Discussing the transition towards electric mobility, Smt Misal stressed that the success of electric vehicle adoption depends on the development of supporting infrastructure, including charging networks, skilled workforce availability, and effective maintenance systems. She noted that emerging green technologies require a comprehensive ecosystem to deliver sustainable outcomes.
The minister also acknowledged ongoing government efforts through subsidies, incentives, and sustainability programmes aimed at encouraging environmentally responsible practices. She called for stronger collaboration between industry and society to protect natural resources and create a sustainable future.
GreenPro-certified products play a significant role in promoting responsible consumption by enabling customers and businesses to identify products developed with improved environmental performance. Certification initiatives such as GreenPro complement government regulations by encouraging industries to pursue voluntary excellence and continuous improvement in sustainability.
Congratulating the 143 GreenPro Award winners, Smt Misal praised their contribution towards building a greener industrial ecosystem. She reiterated that environmental protection is a shared responsibility and called upon industries and citizens to actively participate in creating a sustainable future for upcoming generations. The CII GreenPro Summit 2026 continues to serve as a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and recognition of organisations working towards sustainable growth and climate-conscious development.