India’s MSME Surge: A Catalyst for Economic Growth

September 11, 2024, 11:13 pm
FICCI : Industry's Voice for Policy Change
FICCI : Industry's Voice for Policy Change
BuildingBusinessCommerceCorporateIndustryITPlatformPublicSocietyVoice
Location: India, Delhi, New Delhi
Employees: 501-1000
Founded date: 1927
India's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are on the rise. The government has announced a remarkable leap in registrations, soaring from 1.65 crore to 5 crore in just over a year. This is not just a number; it’s a testament to the growing recognition of MSMEs as the backbone of the Indian economy.

The MSME sector is a vast ocean, with an estimated 6.5 to 7 crore enterprises operating in the shadows. Until recently, only a fraction was registered, limiting their access to crucial resources. The government's push to formalize this sector is akin to turning on the lights in a dark room. Suddenly, opportunities are visible.

Dr. Rajneesh, the Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner for MSMEs, spoke at the FICCI CMSME National Conference 2024. He emphasized the importance of bridging the formalization gap. The government aims to enhance credit guarantees through the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE). This initiative is set to increase credit guarantees by INR 5 lakh crore over the next two years.

Credit is the lifeblood of any business. For MSMEs, access to affordable credit has often been a distant dream. The CGTMSE provides collateral-free loans, a lifeline for many small businesses. In the past two years alone, credit guarantees have reached INR 4 lakh crore. The ambitious target of an additional INR 5 lakh crore reflects the government’s commitment to nurturing this sector.

MSMEs contribute significantly to India’s economy. They account for about 30% of the national GDP, 36% of manufacturing, and 44% of exports. They also provide jobs to 21 crore people. After agriculture, they are the largest employer in the country. This sector is not just a contributor; it is a cornerstone of economic resilience.

The government's focus on MSMEs aligns with its broader vision of transforming India into an advanced economy. The journey is long, but the destination is clear. The growth of MSMEs is crucial for achieving this goal. They are the engines driving innovation, employment, and economic stability.

In addition to financial support, the government is also emphasizing quality and innovation. Chakravarthy T Kannan from the Quality Council of India (QCI) highlighted the role of artificial intelligence and innovation in supporting MSMEs. The introduction of a 'Universal Quality Interface' aims to ensure that MSMEs can compete on a global scale.

The Online National Digital Commerce (ONDC) initiative is being restructured to support MSMEs. This platform will serve as a bridge, connecting small businesses with quality guarantees. The vision is clear: Indian MSMEs are poised for exponential growth.

The call for quality is echoed by Girish Luthra, President of FICCI-CMSME. He advocates for the introduction of Japanese quality circles in Indian MSMEs. This approach could enhance productivity and efficiency, ensuring that Indian products meet international standards.

Meanwhile, the technical textile industry is also making waves. Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh announced that exports of technical textiles are expected to exceed US $10 billion by 2030. This sector is a goldmine, with the global market valued at approximately US $300 billion. Currently, India’s domestic market stands at US $25 billion, with exports at US $2.6 billion.

The government is laying the groundwork for a robust technical textiles industry. Initiatives like the National Technical Textiles Mission and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme are designed to propel this sector forward. The introduction of niche carbon fiber production by 2025-26 is a game-changer. Currently, India imports all its carbon fiber, but this shift could alter the landscape.

The minister expressed confidence in the local industry’s ability to develop high-performance fibers. These materials have extensive applications in aerospace, automotive, and construction sectors. The government’s support is unwavering, aiming to position India as a global leader in technical textiles.

State governments are also stepping up. They are promoting investments, including foreign direct investment (FDI), in the technical textiles industry. This collaborative effort is crucial for building a self-reliant economy.

The momentum is palpable. The surge in MSME registrations and the growth of the technical textile industry are not isolated events. They are part of a larger narrative of economic transformation.

As India navigates the complexities of a global economy, the focus on MSMEs and technical textiles is a strategic move. These sectors are not just numbers on a balance sheet; they represent livelihoods, innovation, and the future of the Indian economy.

In conclusion, the rise of MSMEs and the technical textile industry is a beacon of hope. It signals a shift towards a more inclusive and resilient economy. The government's initiatives are paving the way for a brighter future. With continued support and innovation, India is poised to harness the full potential of its MSMEs and technical textiles, driving growth and prosperity for all.