New Delhi: In a notable effort to acknowledge the critical role played by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in fulfilling the mandates set by the Public Procurement Policy of the Government of India, the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) organized the CPSE Conclave on Public Procurement Policy. Chaired by Union Minister of MSME, Narayan Rane, and Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Shri Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma, the conclave aimed to commend CPSEs actively participating in the procurement process from SC/ST and Women Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).
National SC-ST Hub and Public Procurement:
Launched in 2016 by the Prime Minister, the National SC-ST Hub’s objective is to create a supportive ecosystem for SC/ST entrepreneurs. The conclave served as a platform to discuss new interventions and ideas supporting SC/ST entrepreneurs in participating effectively in public procurement processes.
Technical Sessions and Presentations:
Detailed presentations were conducted on key elements such as Public Procurement Policy, Zero Effect Zero Defect (ZeD), Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS), and Government e-Marketplace (GeM). The discussions emphasized how these initiatives strengthen the supply chain, providing maximum benefits to Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Plenary Session and Keynote Address:
The plenary session kicked off with a keynote address by S.C.L. Das, Secretary, Ministry of MSME, shedding light on the efforts to augment capacity and promote MSMEs in India. Union Minister MSME, Narayan Rane, took the opportunity to present certificates of appreciation to CPSEs for their commendable efforts in fulfilling the Public Procurement Policy mandate.
MSME Idea Hackathon 3.0 (Women):
Minister Rane announced the results of MSME Idea Hackathon 3.0 (Women), with 397 ideas selected for financial assistance up to Rs. 15 lakh from the Ministry of MSME.
Encouraging Active Participation:
Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma stressed the need for more active participation from CPSEs in meeting mandates related to SC, ST, and Women MSEs under the Public Procurement Policy.
Empowering MSMEs:
The conclave underscored the government’s consistent efforts to empower MSMEs for sustainable growth and integration into the global value chain.