Inclusive Growth in Focus: Unleashing SC-ST Potential through NI-MSME Schemes

In order to bolster inclusive growth and entrepreneurial development, the National Institute for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (NI-MSME)on May 27,2025 organized a product exhibition at Diamond Jubilee Bhavan, Hyderabad. This event attended by Union Minister for MSME Jitan Ram Manjhi is a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to promote MSMEs from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities.

This was a remarkable initiative as the exhibition served as a vibrant platform for the entrepreneurs from the SC-ST community. Entrepreneurs were able to showcase their products, strengthen their network, build connections and tap into government-led programs, helping them in enhancing their competitiveness and become self-reliant. Manjhi along with initiatives like  Vendor Development Program (VDP), the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme and Unnatkrit Hostel Chikankari Project inaugurated 30 stalls during the event.

Spearheaded by National SC-ST Hub, the initiative aimed to promote specific technology adoption, market entry, supply chain integration and sustainable livelihoods among marginalized communities. 

Elevating MSMEs through Strategic Gathering and Institutional Backing

The event organized in Hyderabad was witnessed by directors and officers from key MSME institutions indicating its strategic importance. This arrangement highlights the shared vision of the stakeholders to further equip the SC-ST entrepreneurs  with the tools needed to thrive in an extremely combative economy. Through interactive stalls, enlightening sessions, knowledge-sharing workshops and government schemes the event attempted to escalate Indian MSMEs. 

• The key feature under the National SC-ST Hub was the Special Vendor Development Programs (SVDP), which aims to encourage integration of SC-ST enterprises into public procurement by linking them with Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and government institutions. These programs will help entrepreneurs have access to procurement  information, registration process and existing opportunities under the ambit of government supply chains.

• Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP), another notable scheme inaugurated in the exhibition, is a Central Sector initiative supported by the World Bank. With the goal of expanding the outreach of MSME Schemes, it intends to enhance market access, finance and technology. The primary idea is to accelerate Centre-State collaboration and strengthen institutions with technology upgradation, innovation, credit support and digitization.

• Unnatkrit Hostel Chikankari was a noteworthy initiative in the event. It aimed at rejuvenating traditional craft and integrating it with modern business practices. To empower artisans from marginalized communities, the initiative focuses on creating market linkages and enhancing commercial value of their skills, hence not only resulting in preserving culture  but also creating economic opportunities.

SC-ST Participation in Public Procurement

This presents a significant opportunity for SC-ST entrepreneurs to boost their business prospects by leveraging government schemes introduced during the NI-MSME exhibition. One one hand where RAMP will help MSMEs in technology upgradation, adoption of digital tools, financial  and market access, VDP will connect them with CPSEs, through fairs and stakeholders meet, facilitating their entry into the supply chain. Business can also capitalize onn National SC-ST Hub, for training and capacity building. The one-stop platform also extends financial assistance and market linkages to the entrepreneurs.Scheme like- Single Point Registration Scheme (SPRS), Special Marketing Assistance Scheme (SMAS), Testing Fee Reimbursement and Capacity Building Management Fee Reimbursement should also be taken into account for essential viable assistance to eradicate the hindurances when you start.

Bridging the Last Mile

The product exhibition organized by NI-MSME was more than a showcase. It was a an opportunity for the marginalized community to bring their businesses to the fore. From the government's part it was an attempt towards inclusive  economic development. But launching promising initiatives would not alone get the desired results. Limited awareness within the targeted communities, complicated application procedures and bureaucratic hurdles prevent the beneficiaries from accessing benefits. To address these issues we need simplified processes and a support mechanism that is tailored to ground reality. We need to have effective communication with the local people because it is clear that the gap exists. Rural or digitally less literate people find it difficult to obtain from digital awareness campaigns. If all the stakeholders collectively are able to do this then these schemes will be poised to gain traction and the ripple effect on the  employment generation will also be profound.