National SC-ST Hub Conclave Promotes Entrepreneurship in Punjab

Punjab, Oct 19 (KNN) In a significant move to boost entrepreneurship among Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities, the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, organised a National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Conclave in Moga, Punjab on Friday.

The event, which saw participation from around 700 aspiring and existing SC/ST entrepreneurs, aimed to promote entrepreneurship culture and create awareness about the NSSH Scheme and other initiatives of the Ministry.

Key government officials and dignitaries graced the occasion, including Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary, Ministry of MSME, and Subhransu Sekhar Acharya, CMD of the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC). 

The conclave served as a platform to highlight the crucial role of MSMEs in India's economic landscape and the government's commitment to fostering inclusive growth.

In his opening remarks, Acharya emphasized the importance of the Public Procurement Policy, which mandates 4% procurement from SC/ST enterprises and 3% from women-owned businesses. 

He outlined the objectives of the NSSH Scheme, focusing on creating an ecosystem for SC/ST entrepreneurs and supporting their participation in public procurement.

Mercy Epao, addressing the gathering, underscored the MSME sector's significant contribution to the Indian economy. She revealed that MSMEs account for nearly 30% of India's GDP and 45% of its exports, with over 5.21 crore units employing more than 22.28 crore people. 

Epao encouraged participants to embrace entrepreneurship and take advantage of various government schemes designed to empower the MSME sector.

The conclave also featured presentations on recent initiatives such as the 'Yashawini' program, aimed at promoting women-led development through entrepreneurship, and the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which supports traditional artisans and craftspeople across 18 trades.

A special technical session brought together Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), banks, and lending institutions, providing an interactive platform for SC/ST entrepreneurs. 

Representatives from major CPSEs like GAIL, BHEL, and ESIC shared insights on their vendor empanelment processes and procurement opportunities.

Financial institutions, including SIDBI and various banks, detailed lending schemes tailored for the MSME sector. 

The event also hosted facilitation desks for on-the-spot registration under the PM Vishwakarma scheme and UDYAM, further simplifying access to government support for attendees.

This conclave marks a significant step in the government's efforts to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST communities and strengthen the MSME sector, which is crucial for India's economic growth and employment generation.

(KNN Bureau)