New Delhi: The Centre has deepened its push to modernise and digitalise India’s small enterprises, with a wide range of technology and support initiatives now being rolled out across the country. This information was given by the Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Shobha Karandlaje, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.
According to the minister, the government has been actively strengthening the ecosystem for MSMEs by introducing schemes aimed at technology upgradation, advanced skilling, green innovation and improved market access. These initiatives are designed to help small enterprises stay competitive in a fast-changing business environment, where technology adoption is no longer optional but essential for growth.
Among the major schemes highlighted were the MSE Cluster Development Programme, Tool Rooms and Technology Centres, the Green Investment Financing for Transformation (GIFT) Scheme, and the MSME Champions Scheme. Together, these programmes offer MSMEs support in modernisation, quality enhancement, access to advanced machinery, and adoption of greener technologies.
Digitalisation, the minister noted, is being driven through platforms such as the Udyam Portal, MSME Champions Portal, Government e-Marketplace (GeM), TReDS, MSME Mart, MSME SAMBANDH and the Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) portal. These tools make it easier for small businesses to register online, access digital markets, secure working capital, sell products to government buyers and resolve disputes without costly delays.
A key announcement in the reply was the government’s plan to expand its Technology Centre network. Under the scheme Establishment of New Technology Centres/Extension Centres, the MSME Ministry will set up 20 new Technology Centres and 100 Extension Centres across the country. These centres will offer localised support by providing training, technology solutions and advisory services tailored to the needs of MSMEs in each region. Two of the approved Technology Centre locations—Gaya in Bihar and Bokaro in Jharkhand—fall in aspirational districts, reflecting efforts to strengthen industrial development at the grassroots level.
In addition, the ministry has already established 65 Export Facilitation Centres (EFCs) in its field offices, Technology Centres and Testing Centres. These EFCs aim to mentor MSMEs, guide them on global standards and documentation, and help them tap into international markets with greater confidence.
The minister emphasised that the combined impact of these initiatives will significantly boost the competitiveness and profitability of MSMEs, enabling them to embrace digital tools, modern technology and global opportunities more effectively.