Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the 16th Annual Day celebrations of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) in New Delhi, emphasizing the importance of regulatory frameworks that balance rigorous oversight with the facilitation of swift approvals for low-risk mergers and acquisitions. She urged regulators to expedite clearances for mergers that do not pose competition threats while preserving competition norms to support India's growth, resilience, and innovation goals. Sitharaman highlighted ongoing structural reforms in India, including asset monetisation, disinvestment, and digital public infrastructure, aimed at unlocking market potential. The Competition Commission of India Chairperson, Ravneet Kaur, stated that CCI's actions against rules violations in the digital market would be evidence-based and proportionate. The event also featured discussions on the role of the CCI in maintaining fair trade practices, with experts underscoring the importance of fair competition for inclusive growth and investor confidence. The seminar included remarks from Sonali Dayaratne, Resident Representative (a.i) of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bangladesh, who praised reforms strengthening institutions and leveling the playing field through the Trade, Economic and Public Policy Programme (TEPP).