244/2024-2025

Aizawl, September 27, 2024: The 'International Conference on MSMEs in North East' organized by FINER (Federation of Industries in North Eastern Region) was held at I&PR Auditorium, Treasury Square today at 10:30 am. Hon'ble Minister, Commerce & Industries, Pu F. Rodingliana graced the occasion as the chief guest.

Pu F. Rodingliana thanked FINER and Ministry of MSME officials for choosing Aizawl as the conference venue and extended warm greetings to participants from Taiwan, local entrepreneurs, and university and college students.

In his inaugural address, the Minister emphasized that Mizoram boasts immense potential for Agro-based and Horticulture-based industries, yet remains untapped. To tackle this, the current government has launched the "Hand Holding" policy. This initiative will continue to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), with allocations for cash crop cultivation and special funds to empower entrepreneurs.The Mizoram government has identified ginger, turmeric, and chili as key cash crops for cultivation. To maximize product output and boost state revenue, funds have been earmarked from the state budget. The "Hand Holding" policy is designed to provide financial assistance and support to entrepreneurs and farmers across the state. This scheme converges various programs, initiatives, and central government schemes to benefit those in agriculture and industry. By implementing this policy, Mizoram aims to establish itself as a hub for Agro-based and Horticulture-based industries, generating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.

Mizoram's geographical challenges and limited connectivity require special consideration in policy-making. Despite these challenges, the state's literacy rate, cultural unity, and peaceful environment make it an attractive destination for investment.

The Mizoram government is committed to supporting MSMEs with favourable policies and incentives. The Minister invited MSMEs from other Indian states and abroad to collaborate with local entrepreneurs and the government.

Pi Maria CT Zuali, IAS, Director of Commerce and Industries, highlighted Mizoram's potential for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in various sectors, including: Agro-based industries: leveraging the state's fertile land and favourable climate for farming , Horticulture-based industry: building on Mizoram's success in producing fruits, flowers, and other horticultural products, Bamboo-based industries: utilizing the state's abundant bamboo resources and Handloom and handicraft industries: promoting traditional crafts and textiles. Eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural tourism: showcasing Mizoram's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

She also highlighted that Mizoram's advantages for MSMEs include its pleasant climate, fertile land, and abundant natural resources. The state's peaceful environment and supportive community also make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs. With its strategic location, Mizoram offers opportunities for trade with neighbouring countries. 

Today's program began with a welcome speech by Pu Bhaskar Kakoty, Director of FINER, who outlined the purpose of the conference and FINER's various initiatives. Pu Diwakar, MSME DI, Mizoram, also spoke about the Ministry of MSME's efforts and initiatives for MSMEs in Mizoram.

The conference consisted of two sessions: inaugural and technical. The morning session was dedicated to the inaugural session, while the afternoon session focused on technical discussions. During the technical session, Pi Ru Yi Yong from Taiwan delivered a PowerPoint presentation on "Bamboo Sector Opportunities." Additionally, Pu Jui Tai Hong from Taiwan spoke on "Opportunities in MSME Sectors," and Dr. Himayoti Dutta, Assistant Professor at Mizoram University's Department of Food Technology, discussed "Food processing in Mizoram through academia and research perspective."

Entrepreneurs from within and outside Mizoram, as well as students from Mizoram University and five other colleges interested in entrepreneurship, attended the conference.

This conference highlights the importance of MSMEs in India, which contribute significantly to the country's economic development through rural industrialization, employment opportunities, and income distribution. However, MSMEs face challenges such as limited access to finance, technological obsolescence, and skill shortages. The conference aimed to address these challenges and explore opportunities for growth and success in the MSME sector.