Manish Tewari backs Greater Chandigarh Region model for integrated growth

“As one of India’s most thoughtfully planned cities, Chandigarh is at a critical juncture,” he said. “A Metro network can become the backbone of integration between Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh, connecting people to opportunity and creating a seamless ecosystem for growth. At the same time, we need empowered local governance with a directly elected mayor serving a full five-year term for stability and accountability.”

The GCR initiative, being driven by CII Chandigarh, envisions harmonised policies and regional economic integration. “With the Tricity region supporting a huge population, urgent steps are needed for coordinated governance,” Vivek Verma, vice-chairman, CII Chandigarh, said. “The GCR vision offers a bold framework, much like the NCR model around Delhi.”

The session also highlighted IWN’s initiatives, including advocacy for menstrual leave, the Pink Booth campaign to improve hygiene and safety infrastructure, and the upcoming Women’s Wellness Summit.

“Empowering women is not just a moral imperative — it’s an economic necessity,” Ritika Singh, chairperson, IWN Chandigarh and CEO of Kontent Factory, said. “Our initiatives bridge policy, industry and grassroots realities while challenging stigma and promoting inclusivity.”

The discussion concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between policymakers, industry and civil society. Tewari pledged to take forward regional priorities — including urban mobility, air connectivity, skilling and women’s empowerment — at the national level.

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