MSME-Expo Odisha 2015, along with a three-day National level Vendor Development Programme, was inaugurated by Nalco CMD Tapan Kumar Chand at the Killa Maidan in Cuttack on Wednesday, in which about 140 MSMEs, mother industries and financial institutions are participating.
Addressing the representatives of various industries, banks, small enterprises, startups as well as officials of the MSME Departments of the State and the Centre, Chand informed that the Nalco is sourcing Rs 400 crore worth purchases from MSMEs, and in coming days, the aluminium major would step it up by providing a 15-per cent purchase preference.
He appreciated the role of MSMEs in creating employment and wanted the MSMEs to be cost and quality conscious. “Besides, there is a dire need for infrastructure development and consistent energy supply for MSMEs, and Nalco will take up the issues with the Government and policymakers,” Chand assured.
Among others, MSME Development Institute Director PK Gupta, Odisha Industries’ Association president Abani Kanungo, Director of Industries N Palai and East Coast Railway Chief Materials Manager RK Das also addressed the gathering.