Gumla, Aug 19 (KNN) The MSME sector of Jharkhand is endowed with a wide variety of natural resources and is one of the most attractive destinations for setting up of mineral-based units, said Union Minister of State of MSME, Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma on Friday. 

Addressing the National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Conclave at Town Hall, Gumla, the MoS emphasized on the significant role of the MSME Sector in the Indian economy in terms of its contribution to GDP and overall exports from India. 

The Ministry of MSME organised the event to promote entrepreneurship culture and spread awareness of the NSSH Scheme and other Schemes of the Ministry. 

Jitendra Kumar Singh, Secretary, Department of Industries, Government of Jharkhand and other senior dignitaries were also present.

The event saw the participation of around 650 SC-ST aspiring and existing entrepreneurs.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister stated that MSMEs not only provide huge employment opportunities but also help in the industrialization of rural & backward areas. 

He mentioned that the State offers ample opportunities for the development of forest & mineral based industries and our Ministry is taking several measures to provide the necessary support for these units to thrive. 

He also highlighted the potential of various schemes of the Government to empower the MSME Sector and said that through this conclave, the SC/ST entrepreneurs from the State will explore innovative ideas and mutual business opportunities and avail maximum benefits of these schemes.

Speaking at the occasion Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary, Ministry of MSME briefed on the various initiatives implemented under the National SC-ST Hub scheme for SC/ST entrepreneurs along with other major schemes of the Ministry being implemented for MSME Sector.

A special technical session with CPSEs, Banks & Lending institutions was also held providing an interactive platform for aspiring and existing SC-ST entrepreneurs. 

The CPSEs like ONGC, BSNL, Damodar Valley Corporation Ltd. etc. gave presentations on their vendor empanelment process and shared the details of products/services that can be procured from SC-ST owned MSEs. 

The program also had financial institutions such as SBI, SIDBI, IFCI Venture Capital Funds, and NABARD, which detailed various lending schemes pertaining to the MSME sector. 

Other Government bodies like KVIC, MSME-DFO, TRIFED and GeM also participated in the program and deliberated on their schemes for MSMEs. The program included facilitation desks of UDYAM Registration for facilitating the registration of SC/ST MSEs participants on the spot.  (KNN Bureau)