New Delhi, Feb 12 (KNN) As a result of various initiatives of the government, the procurement percentage from SC/ST Micro Small Enterprises (MSEs) has increased from 0.04% to 0.52% over the years, Giriraj Singh, Union Minister for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) told KNN India in an interview.

Speaking with KNN India on the sidelines of ‘Regional Conference on MSME Financing for SC/ST Entrepreneurs', he said “The procurement percentage from SC/ST MSEs has increased by 12%-15% from 0.04% to 0.52%, which is a matter of pride.”

He also stated that there has been visible improvements in the programs like Standup India and procurement of 3% reserved for women entrepreneur.

When asked about credit extension to MSMEs, he said “Through various initiatives of the government, the credit facilities to MSMEs have been extended like under CGTMSE scheme and PMEGP schemes but we need to raise it further with the level of rising population."

On information asymmetry among the MSMEs with regard to government schemes and programs, he stated that such kind of awareness programs are being conducted time to time to bridge the gap. (KNN/ YV)