The SICCI has served Indian business by protecting and promoting their interests at the Regional, National and International levels. The Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of this august body was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister of India, SHRI RAJIV GANDHI in 1987 when DR. A.C. MUTHIAH was the President of the chamber. The Centenary Celebrations of the SICCI was kick started in 2010 when Hon’ble SHRI. P. CHIDAMBARAM, Union Minister for Home Affairs, Government of India released the SICCI Centenary Special Cover, during the tenure of MR. A. VELLAYAN as the President of the Chamber. The Centenary Celebrations were concluded in 2011 when the SICCI Centenary Commemorative Volume, titled ‘A Journey of Excellence and Enterprise’ was released by DR. SUBIR GOKARN, Dy. Governor, RBI during the term of MR. JAWAHAR VADIVELU as the President of the SICCI.
The Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), which has completed hundred years of excellence and enterprise in service to the southern region of this nation, is one of the oldest but largest and prestigious institutions of its kind in India. It was established in 1909 under the inspiration of the Father of Nation, MAHATMA GANDHI who initiated the Swadeshi Movement in his quest for political and social freedom for India. But the goal of the SICCI was for India to attain economic freedom for the industry which would then drive inclusive social growth. Ever since its establishment, this regional body has grown from strength to strength under the dynamic leadership of a galaxy of eminent Presidents.
The Chamber is a founder member of The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), New Delhi, the apex body, and continues to take an active interest in the affairs of this national body. Many Presidents of the SICCI have also been Presidents of FICCI and many members are also on the committees of the FICCI and other national bodies.