Bengaluru, 27 September(HS): In its 108-year journey, FKCCI now embraces a new role -where women’s leadership is not an exception but part of mainstream business

• An ability to straddle the worlds of both being an entrepreneur in manufacturing technology products and policy advocacy as a social entrepreneur.

A Technocrat and Entrepreneur

Ms Uma Reddy brings a strong engineering and technology background to the role, distinguishing her as a leader who seamlessly blends technical expertise with entrepreneurial vision. She serves as the Managing Director of M/s. Hitech Magnetics and Electronics Pvt Ltd, a company specialising in the power electronic wound components sector where female representation remains limited.

With over three decades of experience, Ms Uma Reddy has been a steadfast advocate for innovation, women entrepreneurs, and MSME empowerment. She has contributed to numerous national and state-level industry committees, mentoring and supporting women-led enterprises. Her colleagues describe her as a pragmatic technocrat with the ability to anticipate industry shifts-from digital transformation and renewable energy to the challenges MSMEs face in competing globally.

The Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) has made history. Ms Uma Reddy has been elected as the first woman president of the 108-year-old apex trade and industry body, marking a historic milestone for women in leadership in Karnataka’s business landscape. Since its founding by Sir M. Visvesvaraya in 1916, FKCCI has been traditionally led by men, making Ms Uma Reddy’s election a landmark achievement.

A Historic Milestone for Women in Leadership

Ms Uma Reddy’s election is not only a milestone for FKCCI but also a symbolic victory for gender equity in leadership. This historic moment reflects the evolving mindset of India’s business community, where inclusivity is increasingly recognized as essential. Her leadership is expected to inspire other chambers of commerce across India to open top roles to women, especially in Karnataka, where women entrepreneurs play a vital role in sectors such as Engineering, IT services, garments, food processing, and handicrafts.

Leading Karnataka’s Growth at a Critical Juncture

Taking charge at a time when Karnataka’s economy is at a crucial inflexion point, Ms. Uma Reddy steps in as a leader as the state contributes 8–9% of India’s GDP, hosts over 400 Fortune 500 companies, and has become a hub for IT, biotech, space research, and aerospace manufacturing. However, challenges persist, including rising costs, global competition, and financing hurdles for MSMEs. Her presidency has the potential to redefine FKCCI’s role in fostering inclusive, innovative, and sustainable growth.

FKCCI’s Legacy and Progressive Shift

Founded by Sir M. Visvesvaraya in 1916, FKCCI has grown into one of India’s most respected chambers, representing over 5,000 direct members and over 20000 indirect members with its nearly 200 trade and industry associations. Indirectly 2 Lakhs Members. It has influenced policies on infrastructure, taxation, MSMEs, exports, and investment promotion, championing Karnataka as an economic powerhouse.

While women have been steadily advancing in corporate and entrepreneurial sectors, leadership within trade chambers has largely remained male-dominated. Ms Uma Reddy’s election signals a progressive shift and promises fresh perspectives for FKCCI members. Under her leadership, FKCCI is expected to prioritize:

* Policy advocacy for MSME and inclusive enterprise growth

* Strengthening start-up institutions - industry linkages

* Skill Development Training on technology app – AI, Robotics etc

* Focus on ESG and Sustainability

* Applied technologies for Agri tech, etc

Ms Uma Reddy’s presidency is more than symbolic—it represents a transformative vision for Karnataka’s trade and industry community, blending heritage, innovation, and inclusivity.

Hindusthan Samachar / Manohar Yadavatti