Government Approves ₹92,000 Crore in Guarantees to Support MSMEs Amid Global Challenges
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, April 15 (NationPress) The government has sanctioned over 5.27 lakh guarantees amounting to Rs 92,000 crore for MSMEs during the months of February and March this year, showcasing robust institutional backing for the sector in light of global challenges arising from the West Asia conflict, as reported by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises on Wednesday.
During this period, more than 20 lakh MSMEs were registered on the ministry’s Udyam portal, increasing the total number of registered enterprises to over 8 crore, which highlights the persistent entrepreneurial activities across the nation, according to the ministry's statement.
The total lending to MSMEs has surpassed Rs 36.7 lakh crore, marking a quarterly growth of 23.5 percent, which indicates a positive trend in credit flow despite global uncertainties, the statement added.
In a significant move to improve financial access, the collateral-free lending limit for micro and small enterprises has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, effective from April 1, benefiting many small entrepreneurs and first-time borrowers.
Regarding liquidity initiatives, the Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) platform has seen substantial growth, with invoice discounting rising from Rs 4,300 crore in 2022 to over Rs 7 lakh crore currently, including Rs 85,000 crore in February and March alone, highlighting the increasing adoption of digital financing solutions, the statement mentioned.
The government is dedicated to providing adequate support to MSMEs through coordinated policy actions, especially in light of evolving global challenges, such as the situation in West Asia.
Additionally, the government has declared that the increase in the commercial LPG limit to 70 percent of the pre-March 2026 bulk consumption level will also apply to industrial units in various sectors including pharma, food, polymer, agriculture, packaging, paint, uranium, heavy water, steel, seed, metal, ceramic, foundry, forging, glass, and aerosol.
The Ministry of Coal has instructed Coal India and Singareni Collieries to provide additional coal to states for distribution to small and medium consumers.
States have been encouraged to facilitate new PNG connections for both domestic and commercial consumers.
The Ministry of MSME remains committed to collaborating closely with stakeholders to bolster the resilience, competitiveness, and growth of the sector, as stated.