Mysuru: ‘If India wants to become the largest or second largest economy in the world it needs to increase its women workforce,’ said Sriram Ranganathan, Global Tax Head, Wipro Ltd, Bengaluru.

 He was delivering the keynote address after inaugurating the 12th International Conference on Emerging Trends in Corporate Finance and Financial Markets organised by Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Institute for Management Development (SDM-IMD) in association with Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce at SDM-IMD auditorium here recently.

Ranganathan pointed out that while women’s participation in the workforce has gradually increased in metropolitan areas, the overall national figures remain low. He urged that addressing this gap is essential for achieving India’s economic aspirations.

“For a country of our size, the current participation rates are inadequate. We need to take significant steps to enhance women’s involvement in the workforce if we are serious about becoming the largest or second-largest economy in the world,” he stated.

 He also spoke on evolution of India’s capital markets, highlighting the importance of domestic financial institutions in providing stability against the volatility of Foreign Portfolio Investments (FPIs).

Ranganathan noted that the resilience of Indian markets in the face of global uncertainties is a positive sign for future growth. He concluded with insights on the role of Artificial Intelligence in shaping the future of finance.

 Dr. M. Sriram, Associate Professor of Finance and Conference Chair, welcomed and introduced the conference theme. He outlined favourable factors for the growth of Indian financial markets amidst global challenges.

Dr. Mousumi Sengupta, Professor and Dean of International Relations, emphasised the significance of digitisation in financial transactions and its impact on achieving financial inclusion.

 The conference had presentations from participants across the country. Dr. S. Kannadas, Associate Professor of Finance at SDM-IMD, proposed the vote of thanks.