Coimbatore, Nov 28 (KNN) Small industries in Tamil Nadu should come forward to supply more goods to public sector undertakings such as railways, defence and power units, said Executive Director, Neyveli Lignite Corporation, N Ilamparuthi.

Inaugurating a two-day National Vendor Development Programme and MSME Expo 2014 here yesterday, the senior official of NLC said small industries in the state are still hesitant when it comes to supplying goods to government undertakings, fearing lower rates and higher penalties, media reports said.

Citing that Tamil Nadu firms have not been supplying as much goods when compared to companies from northern states, such as Gujarat, to government companies, Ilamparuthi said vendors should change this attitude and should start contributing to public sectors.

The Union Government has adopted a policy by which it has been made mandatory for government departments to procure a minimum of 20 per cent products from the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME), he reiterated.

Around 80 vendors participated in the event organised by Coimbatore District Small Industries Association (CODISSIA) and the Ministry of MSME.

Also addressing the gathering, Additional Industrial Advisor, MSME, Delhi, S Sivagnanam said that the Union Minister for Heavy Industries, Anant Geete has sent a letter to the MSME ministry to bring out comprehensive schemes to enhance MSMEs in the country. (KNN Bureau)