A one-day state-level awareness and sensitisation workshop under the World Bank-backed Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) initiative was organised at the Indoor Stadium in Dumka on Wednesday, bringing together 183 entrepreneurs from Dumka and Jamtara districts to discuss opportunities, challenges and government support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The workshop was jointly organised by the Department of Industries, Jharkhand, and the Jharkhand Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (JIIDCO) through the District Industries Centre, Dumka. Key areas of discussion included MSME ZED and LEAN certification, Online Dispute Resolution (ODR), Micro and Small Enterprises Facilitation Council (MSEFC) and the Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS).
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Deputy Development Commissioner Aniket Sachan highlighted the practical challenges faced by local weavers, women artisans and micro-entrepreneurs. He stressed the need for uninterrupted electricity, improved water supply, better road connectivity and stronger civic infrastructure to support enterprise development.
He also encouraged entrepreneurs to explore sustainable energy options and avail themselves of subsidies under schemes such as SFURTI and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. He called for greater participation of women and SC/ST entrepreneurs in business expansion and self-employment.
Experts from MSME-DFO, NABARD, banks, labour department and JSLPS explained quality certification, credit facilities, labour regulations, skill development and rural enterprise promotion. Sessions also highlighted mechanisms to address delayed payments and improve working capital availability.
Of the 183 participants, 40 belonged to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities.