President Pratibha Patil has urged micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to create linkages with the agricultural sector in service, research and manufacturing segments for mutual prosperity. Improved agricultural inputs—seeds, fertilisers and machinery to post-harvest value addition and marketing were highlighted as possible areas of linkages
Speaking at the National Award function of the ministry of MSMEs here, Patil stressed the need for MSME brand to survive and excel in the competitive market.
She wanted the entrepreneurs to look at product and market diversification as key tools for growth. The ongoing National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme (NMCP) will address the technological and marketing requirements of the sector, she hoped.
The president urged all stakeholders, including state governments and industry leaders, to synergise their efforts and work in tandem to support MSMEs in a harmonised manner.
MSME minister Virbhadra Singh listed out the government initiatives meant to turn MSME sector more competitive and efficient. According to Singh, NMCP has several components such as "lean manufacturing", "design clinics", "quality control" etc to turn MSMEs globally competitive. "We also propose to create a Technology Acquisition Fund, the minister said.
