Union Minister for MSME Inaugurates Technology Centres, Launches Schemes for MSMEs

Greater Noida: Narayan Rane, Union Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), emphasized the pivotal role of MSMEs as the backbone of the Indian economy during the inauguration of four Technology Centres and two Extension Centres in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The minister assured that the Ministry of MSME is committed to providing unwavering support to MSMEs, aiming to enhance their capabilities and global competitiveness.

In his address, Shri Rane urged MSMEs to strive for excellence and become world-class, contributing significantly to India’s self-reliance. The newly inaugurated Technology Centres, located in Greater Noida, Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh), Baddi (Himachal Pradesh), and Imphal (Manipur), along with Extension Centres in Karimnagar and Bhavanipatna (Odisha), are expected to play a crucial role in nurturing and guiding MSMEs in the adjoining areas.

Shri Rakesh Sachan, Minister of MSME, Uttar Pradesh, highlighted the state’s initiatives, aligned with the vision of the Prime Minister, to transform youths into employment providers rather than job seekers. He affirmed that under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, the state is committed to strengthening the MSME sector through strategic policies.

During the event, Shri Narayan Rane inaugurated the MSME Technology Centres and two Extension Centres, providing state-of-the-art facilities for manufacturing, production, technology, and consultancy. Additionally, the Development and Facilitation Office of DC (MSME) at Dehradun (Uttarakhand) and the Development and Facilitation Office (Nucleus Centre) at Ladakh were inaugurated.

A significant announcement during the event was the launch of a special Scheme for Informal Micro Enterprises by Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises. This scheme, offering loans up to Rs 20 Lakhs, aims to mitigate credit risk perception and encourage lending institutions to support micro/nano enterprises. The initiative is anticipated to empower individual entrepreneurs and foster an inclusive, dynamic, and resilient economic ecosystem.

Furthermore, two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with India EXIM Bank were signed by the Ministry, providing valuable trade and export-related information to benefit MSME exporters. As a significant contributor to the country’s exports, this collaboration is expected to create synergy and have a positive ripple effect.

In a special outreach to women entrepreneurs, toolkits were distributed to those trained under the ODOP scheme of the Government of Uttar Pradesh. An exhibition showcased the participation of MSMEs from various sectors, including stalls allocated to incubators, special ODOP products from different districts of Uttar Pradesh, and stalls from Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) and COIR Board.

Highlighting the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched on 17th September 2023, the minister revealed that as of 14th February 2024, a total of 4,40,172 successful registrations have been recorded under the scheme. A dedicated Experience Centre was set up to create awareness about the scheme, providing end-to-end support to artisans and craftspeople across 18 trades. The event showcased the government’s commitment to uplifting and empowering the MSME sector through innovative schemes and strategic partnerships.