Assam Women entrepreneurs have doubled in two years, says senior bureaucrat

Guwahati: The business landscape in Assam is experiencing a significant transformation with a notable rise in women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). With approximately 5.8 lakh registered MSME units, a substantial number of these enterprises are led by women, marking a positive trend in female entrepreneurship.

The focus now is on enhancing the quality and capabilities of these enterprises. This includes necessary registrations, integration into general portal systems, and obtaining certifications such as ONDC for open networking markets. These initiatives are being pursued under the directives and guidance of the Ministry of MSME, said Secretary to the Government of Assam, Industries, Commerce and PE Department, Assam Dr. Lakshmanan S to Business North East.

“A critical aspect of this support involves technical training and skill development. The Department of Industries is pivotal in this endeavour, offering training programs under the Ministry of MSME and state government initiatives. Each district has a District Industries and Commerce Center (DICC) headed by a General Manager, supported by Functional Managers and Extension Officers. These centers conduct training for entrepreneurs, covering essential topics like registration, product branding, and market access”, said Lakshmanan.

Additionally, the Government of India has produced a series of short instructional videos, each ranging from five to ten minutes, to assist entrepreneurs in navigating the business landscape. These videos cover starting a business, registration processes, and market strategies, promoting a self-learning approach complemented by support from district and state-level functionaries.

Moreover, the Rapid Acceleration of MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme is being implemented across all states, including Assam, with substantial support from the Government of India. This scheme aims to accelerate the growth and performance of MSMEs, with a particular focus on training women entrepreneurs.

The concerted efforts of the Ministry of MSME, state government, and various support organizations are creating a strong foundation for women entrepreneurs in Assam. This holistic approach ensures that women are equipped with the necessary skills and resources to succeed in the competitive business environment.