The Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) visited the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to review the progress and impact of MSME initiatives in the Union Territory. A formal awareness and review programme was held, bringing together senior officials from the Ministry of MSME, A&N Administration, financial institutions, and local MSME stakeholders.
The programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing its inauguration. During the session, the Minister emphasized the critical role of MSMEs in driving economic growth, employment, and innovation, aligning with the government’s vision of a developed India by 2047. The minister engaged directly with officials and entrepreneurs, discussing emerging opportunities, challenges, and strategies to strengthen the sector in the islands.
A key highlight of the event was the consideration of M/s KPMG as the State Programme Implementation Unit (SPIU) for implementing the Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme. The Minister handed over the Letter of Consideration to KPMG’s representative, marking a significant step in enhancing programme governance and execution.
The meeting reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting MSME growth in remote regions such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while creating awareness among entrepreneurs about available support schemes. The Union Secretary of Industries provided an overview of the MSME ecosystem in the islands, outlining the sector’s growth potential and highlighting key challenges such as logistics, infrastructure, market access, and availability of institutional credit.
Joint Secretary of the Ministry of MSME presented a detailed overview of flagship schemes and their performance nationwide, with special focus on their implementation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The session also witnessed active participation from agencies including the MSME Development and Facilitation Office, Khadi and Village Industries Commission, National Small Industries Corporation, Coir Board, financial institutions, and line departments of the A&N Administration, reflecting a collaborative approach towards supporting MSME development.
The programme underscored the importance of strengthening entrepreneurship, improving access to credit, enhancing skill development, and ensuring timely execution of government initiatives. The combined efforts aim to promote sustainable economic growth and expand employment opportunities across the islands, reinforcing MSMEs as a key engine of the region’s economic development.
