Is a Strong MSME Ecosystem Crucial for India's Sustainable Economic Growth?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- MSMEs are vital for economic growth.
- Innovation fosters local solutions.
- Women’s participation is crucial.
- Government initiatives are in place.
- Challenges must be addressed.
New Delhi, June 27 (NationPress) A strong micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) ecosystem is not just significant but also vital for the nation's sustainable economic growth, stated President Droupadi Murmu on Friday.
While addressing the ‘MSME Day’ event in the capital, she affirmed that MSMEs serve as a robust pillar of the Indian economy.
"They play a critical role in GDP contribution and foster innovation at the grassroots level. These enterprises create numerous job opportunities at a relatively low capital cost. Importantly, they also provide employment in rural and underdeveloped regions," President Murmu highlighted during her speech.
She acknowledged that the MSME sector is undeniably crucial to the nation’s advancement.
"Nevertheless, this sector encounters numerous challenges, including issues related to finance, competition with large corporations, outdated technology, scarcity of raw materials and skilled labor, limited market access, and delayed payments," emphasized the President.
Recognizing the significance of MSMEs and their hurdles, the government has implemented various policy measures.
These initiatives include revising the classification criteria for MSMEs, enhancing credit availability, encouraging central ministries and public sector enterprises to source at least 35% of their annual procurement from micro and small businesses, and skill development for artisans under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana.
President Murmu expressed satisfaction over the rapid rise in the number of registered MSMEs due to these initiatives. She expressed confidence that the Online Dispute Resolution Portal for MSMEs will be pivotal in addressing delayed payment issues.
"Innovation is essential for the sustainability of MSMEs. Encouraging grassroots innovation by MSMEs can offer affordable solutions to local challenges using local resources," she asserted.
Moreover, the participation of women in the MSME sector has seen a notable increase in recent years.
"The involvement of more women in this sector is crucial for the comprehensive development of the nation," President Murmu stated, encouraging young women to establish enterprises and achieve self-sufficiency.