What is MSME?
MSMEs are the backbone of India's economy and contribute significantly towards employment generation, industrial output, and exports. The government of India classifies businesses as MSMEs on their basis of their investment and turnover in either manufacturing or services.
MSME Definition (As on 2020)
- Micro Enterprises:
Investment in plant and machinery or equipment: Up to ₹1 crore.
Annual turnover: Up to ₹5 crore.
- Small Enterprises:
Investment: Up to ₹10 crore.
Turnover: Up to ₹50 crore.
- Medium Enterprises:
Investment: upto ₹50 crores.
Turnover: up to ₹250 crores
Importance of MSMEs
- National Level Economic Growth: MSME's contribute to approximately 30% of the Indian GDP
- Generation of Employment: More than 110 million employment is provided at urban and rural levels
- Contribution to Export: They may contribute nearly 45% towards India's exports
- Boost Invention: It may inspire the grassroots level inventions and entrepreneurship.
- Rural Development: Most of the MSMEs are rural-based and therefore minimize urban migration.
Important Schemes for MSME in India
- Udyam Registration: An easy online registration of MSMEs.
- Credit Guarantee Scheme: No collateral requirement to avail loans to MSMEs.
- Subsidies and Tax Benefits: Encouragement to grow through Government incentives.
- Skill Development Programs: Training to boost productivity of employees.
- Market Access: The government schemes like Government e-Marketplace (GeM) provides access to the larger market to MSMEs.
Challenges Confronting MSMEs
- Limited credit availability.
- Poor infrastructure and technology.
- Competition from large enterprises.
- Delayed payment cycles.
How to Register MSMEs?
- Visit the Udyam Registration portal.
- Aadhaar, PAN, and GST details.
- Business-related information.
- Submit the form to obtain the registration certificate.