NEW YORK (Diya TV) — The Columbia Business School hosted the Columbia India Business Conference on April 4, 2026, bringing together policymakers, entrepreneurs and students to discuss the future of India’s global growth story. The event highlighted the strengthening economic partnership between India and the United States. Speakers emphasized innovation, trade and the growing role of the Indian diaspora in shaping global business trends.
Delivering the keynote address, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan described the U.S.-India corridor as “one of the world’s most dynamic corridors.” He pointed to the rapid expansion of bilateral economic ties. Pradhan said trade between the two countries has grown from $19 billion in 2000 to $220 billion today. He noted that both nations aim to reach $500 billion in trade by 2030.
He also stressed that India and the United States are working closely in emerging sectors. These include artificial intelligence, semiconductors, defense and space. He said this collaboration is taking place under the TRUST framework, which stands for Transforming Relationship Using Strategic Technologies.
Pradhan praised the Indian diaspora in the U.S. He said the 5.4 million-strong community plays a vital role in deepening ties between the two countries. He described them as key contributors to innovation, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange.
This year marked the 21st edition of the conference. Organizers held the event at the Columbia Business School campus in New York City. The theme, “The New India Playbook,” focused on India’s evolving economic and global strategy.
The conference drew a diverse group of speakers from business, politics and the creative industries. Among them was Nikhil Kamath, a leading Indian entrepreneur and co-founder of Zerodha. Other prominent speakers included K. T. Rama Rao, designer Aisha Rao and podcast host Raj Shamani. The event also featured several Indian and American business leaders.
During his address, Rama Rao urged young entrepreneurs to think beyond short-term success. He encouraged them to focus on building lasting value. He said founders should prioritize “long-term capacity over short-term headlines and splashes.” He stressed the importance of careful planning and sustained effort in building successful ventures.
Rama Rao also spoke about the advantages of studying and working in global hubs like New York. He said such environments offer access to ideas, talent and opportunities. However, he warned that entrepreneurs must stay focused on what they want to build.
“It’s equally important to prioritize what to build first,” he said.
Rama Rao also shared personal insights during his talk. He reflected on his time as a student at The City University of New York. He said his experiences there helped shape his worldview. He added that his son is currently studying at Carnegie Mellon University. He used this example to highlight the strong educational and cultural ties between India and the United States.
The Columbia India Business Conference is hosted annually by the South Asia Business Association at Columbia Business School. Over the years, it has become a leading platform for India-focused dialogue in New York City. The event aims to inspire thought leadership and meaningful conversations. It explores the business, social, political and creative forces shaping modern India.
