Union Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Giriraj Singh has underscored the need for greater participation by entrepreneurs in small and medium industries.

The Centre is in the process of setting incubation centres for these enterprises in all the districts in a phased manner.

Addressing the MSMEs conclave AT Nellor on April 16, he said that there was a need to increase the presence of small and medium enterprises, considering the fact that there was a requirement to create jobs for 65 per cent of the population which was below the age of 35.

Drawing the attention of the gathering to the alarming issue of the country having just 2.5 per cent skilled workforce, he said that to improve upon this a mission approach was being adopted under instructions of Prime to substantially increase the numbers of skilled persons.

Singh held out an assurance to Andhra Pradesh that he would ensure immediate steps for setting incubation centres in each district in coordination with the State government. He said that his was part of the effort to create enough resources to spur growth of small and medium industries. Stating that the MSMEs had a big role to play in employment generation, Singh said that these units across the country were contributing 8 per cent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and their presence was everywhere.

“Prime Minister Modi has instructed the banks to give loans to MSMEs as well. This would boost this industry and thereby create enormous employment for youth,” he added. Singh said that as and when land would be made available near Nellore city, he would take steps for setting up of a gems and jewellery cluster as requested by local entrepreneurs.

He also said that under the Coir Board, subsidy of up to 40 per cent was being given to enterprises that would show job potential at the local level.

Singh further said that 18 tool rooms were providing professional training to youths across the country. Another 16 tool rooms would be set up soon, he added. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu, Nellore MP Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy, and MLC Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy were present.

Source: The Hindu