In a significant move to strengthen the MSME ecosystem in Eastern India, the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, organised the PM Vishwakarma–National SC-ST Hub Conclave in Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Odisha, on April 16, 2025. The event marked a major milestone in the Centre’s mission to uplift traditional artisans, SC/ST entrepreneurs, and micro enterprises across the state.
The conclave was co-chaired by Union MSME Minister Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi and Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi. Senior state ministers and Members of Parliament also participated, highlighting the collective commitment to inclusive development through entrepreneurship.
Focusing on Vision-Driven MSME Growth
The event showcased the government’s flagship MSME initiatives, including the PM Vishwakarma Scheme and the National SC-ST Hub. These programmes aim to promote economic empowerment by providing skill training, toolkits, financial assistance, and market access to underrepresented communities. E-certificates and credit cheques were distributed to beneficiaries during the conclave, while several entrepreneurs shared their success stories under PMEGP and SC-ST Hub schemes.
Union Minister Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi praised the transformative role of MSMEs in job creation and economic inclusion. He emphasised Odisha’s strong performance in MSME registration and the Ministry’s commitment to realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a developed economy by 2027–28.
Odisha’s MSME Momentum Gets a Boost
Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi commended the Ministry’s special focus on Odisha. He highlighted how schemes like PM Vishwakarma have directly supported artisans and craftspeople from middle-income households across the state. The conclave, held in the heartland of tribal India, reflected a deep commitment to fostering entrepreneurship in aspirational districts.
With over 6.25 crore MSMEs contributing nearly 30% to India’s GDP and 45% to its exports, the sector is a cornerstone of India’s growth journey. Events like this conclave not only enhance awareness but also create actionable pathways for grassroots entrepreneurs to access credit, training, and markets.