In a bid to uplift the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector in the North Eastern Region (NER) and Sikkim, the Ministry of MSME has unveiled a special scheme, the ‘Promotion of MSMEs in North Eastern Region and Sikkim,’ on 2nd August 2016. This scheme is designed to enhance productivity, competitiveness, and capacity building for MSMEs in these regions. Let’s delve into the scheme’s components, objectives, and how it’s driving economic growth.
1. Scheme Overview
The ‘Promotion of MSMEs in NER and Sikkim’ scheme comprises three pivotal components aimed at fostering holistic growth in the region:
2. Setting up of Mini Technology Centres
One of the scheme’s pillars is the establishment and modernization of Mini Technology Centres. These centers receive financial assistance from the government to create common facilities that bolster manufacturing, testing, packaging, research and development, and product innovation. The emphasis is on utilizing the abundant natural resources like fruits, spices, agri products, forestry, sericulture, and bamboo available in NER.
3. Development of Industrial Estates
This component focuses on the development of new and existing Industrial Estates and Flatted Factory Complexes. The government of India’s financial assistance is allocated for infrastructure development, including power distribution systems, water supply, telecommunication, drainage, pollution control facilities, roads, storage, and marketing outlets. These improvements pave the way for a more conducive business environment.
4. Boosting the Tourism Sector
Recognizing the immense potential of the tourism sector, the scheme encourages the creation of common services in clusters of homestays. These services encompass kitchen facilities, bakeries, laundry and dry-cleaning facilities, refrigeration and cold storage, IT infrastructure, potable water provisions, display centers for local products, and spaces for cultural activities.
5. Nature of Assistance
For each component, the scheme specifies the nature of financial assistance:
- Mini Technology Centres: The maximum government assistance is limited to Rs. 13.50 crore or 90% of the project cost, whichever is lower.
- Industrial Estates: Government assistance is capped at Rs. 13.5 crore for new Industrial Estates, Rs. 9.00 crore for existing Industrial Estates, or 90% of the project cost, whichever is less.
- Tourism Sector: Assistance is limited to Rs. 4.50 crore or 90% of the project cost, whichever is lower.
6. Eligibility and Application
State Government Departments involved in promoting MSMEs in the state are eligible to apply for this scheme. Online applications can be submitted through https://ner-promotion.msme.gov.in. Hardcopies should also be sent through State Governments, their autonomous bodies, or field institutes of the Ministry of MSME, such as MSME-DFOs.
7. FAQs
Q1: What is the objective of the ‘Promotion of MSMEs in NER and Sikkim’ scheme?
Ans: The scheme aims to enhance the productivity, competitiveness, and capacity building of MSMEs in the North Eastern Region and Sikkim, driving economic growth in these regions.
Q2: Who can apply for the scheme?
Ans: State Government Departments engaged in promoting MSMEs in the state are eligible to apply.
Q3: How can I apply for the scheme?
Ans: You can submit online applications through https://ner-promotion.msme.gov.in. Additionally, hard copies should be sent through State Governments, autonomous bodies, or MSME-DFOs.
Q4: What is the maximum assistance provided under the scheme?
Ans: The maximum assistance varies for different components, ranging from Rs. 4.50 crore to Rs. 13.50 crore or 90% of the project cost, depending on the specific component.
Conclusion
The ‘Promotion of MSMEs in NER and Sikkim’ scheme is a remarkable initiative by the Ministry of MSME to empower the MSME sector in these regions. By supporting the establishment of Mini Technology Centres, improving industrial infrastructure, and nurturing the tourism sector, the scheme sets the stage for robust economic growth. As the scheme gains traction, NER and Sikkim are poised to become dynamic hubs of MSME activity, catalyzing a positive impact on their economies and communities.