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Local Founder Joins Prime Minister’s Delegation to India

25 Mar 2025

A Canterbury entrepreneur was part of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s high-profile delegation to India, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations.

Sakthi Priya Balaji Ranganathan, founder of JIX Reality in Christchurch, was among the senior business and community leaders who accompanied Mr Luxon on his visit to New Delhi and Mumbai. The delegation, one of the largest a New Zealand Prime Minister has ever travelled with, included key figures from business, politics, and the Kiwi-Indian community.

NZ-INDIA delegation5 (2)

Mr Ranganathan described the experience as a full-circle moment, having arrived in New Zealand as an international student before establishing himself as a leader in technology and innovation.

“This journey—from student to innovator—has been filled with learning, challenges, and immense gratitude,” Ranganathan said. “Being part of this esteemed group was an honour beyond words.”

He also expressed appreciation for the efforts of Prime Minister Luxon, Minister Mark Mitchell, and other leaders in reinforcing the India-New Zealand connection.

“I’m deeply thankful for their leadership, vision, and tireless efforts. Their energy and commitment to strengthening India-New Zealand ties are truly inspiring,” he said.

Ranganathan also acknowledged the diverse range of leaders he met during the mission, including business figures, MPs, and community representatives, all working to enhance bilateral relations.

Reflecting on the trip, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said he was “really proud” of the delegation’s achievements, calling the five-day visit “really successful” and a step forward in deepening ties between New Zealand and India.

“These are two countries that actually should be doing a lot more together,” Mr Luxon said. “I think what you've seen is a projection from both prime ministers to our trade ministers and onto our teams that actually, we want to do a deal.”

The visit began with the relaunch of free trade negotiations between the two countries, with the first round of talks set to start next month. Mr Luxon also held bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focused on the potential for stronger trade and investment links.

With trade negotiations set to progress, the delegation’s visit is expected to drive further collaboration between New Zealand and one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

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