Guwahati: This Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a clarion call for businesses to adopt economic friendly policies through the Zero Defect Zero Effect certification (ZED) if Indian MSMEs were to make a global mark. Obviously, enterprises in the Northeast shouldn’t stay untouched by ZED.
Guwahati-based SGM Consultancy Services is promoting the government scheme in the region. SGM’s Vikash K Agarwall tells Pankhi Sarma of Business North East how schemes like ZED and UDYAM can give a fillip to northeastern businesses and entrepreneurs.
Here are the excerpts from the interview:
Business North East: So firstly, let's begin with how you got motivated to start your consultancy service here.
Vikash Agarwall: I started my career in 2002 as a factory manager in the industrial sector. Over the course of 17 years, by 2019, I encountered various challenges in managing the operations effectively, particularly with the lack of proper guidance. At that time, information technology wasn’t as developed, and the available resources were limited. This experience motivated me to explore new avenues and ultimately help others overcome similar obstacles. I wanted to support businesses and industries by providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed.
BNE: Could you elaborate on the certification services you offer, such as UDYAM registration and ZED certification?
Vikash Agarwall: We raise awareness about UDYAM registration by organizing workshops and webinars with the MSME department and NGOs. UDYAM registration is crucial as it formalizes an industry or entrepreneur in the government’s data, allowing them to benefit from various schemes. For women entrepreneurs, we provide UDYAM registration services free of charge every Saturday at our office.
Regarding ZED certification (Zero Defect, Zero Effect), it is essential for manufacturing sectors, ensuring that their operations meet safety, hygiene, and environmental standards. This certification helps companies minimize their environmental impact while maintaining high standards in their processes. There are three levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—and we assist companies in achieving these certifications, starting with the Bronze level, which is free of cost.
BNE: Could you share some statistics on the certifications enrolled so far?
Vikash Agarwall: As of now, Assam has 2,050 ZED Bronze certifications, with four companies earning the Gold certification. However, this number is still far below the potential of the region. We believe that Assam should have at least 5,000 ZED Bronze certifications, and we encourage more businesses to apply for this certification to improve their standards and contribute to a cleaner, more efficient industry.
BNE: How many awareness and training programs have you conducted in this part of the country?
Vikash Agarwall: We’ve conducted numerous awareness programs across various districts such as Baksa, Barpeta, Nalbari, and Udalguri. So far, we have held awareness camps in 67 districts, reaching around 2,000 participants. However, we still aim to increase this number, as awareness about certifications and professional business practices remains relatively low.
BNE: What sectors are you currently focusing on through your consultancy service?
Vikash Agarwall: We primarily focus on providing services related to industrial and business registration processes, such as HODA registrations, pollution control, groundwater applications, and HR compliances, including ESI. Besides that, we assist businesses with navigating various government schemes, ensuring they meet the regulatory requirements essential for running a business.
BNE: What are the benefits of the schemes you are working on?
Vikash Agarwall: The central government has launched several schemes, such as the Unnati scheme, while the Assam government also offers numerous programs. The Food Processing Ministry has various initiatives designed to benefit entrepreneurs in the Northeast. We guide entrepreneurs to take advantage of these schemes, ensuring that they can access the support needed to operate their businesses successfully.
BNE: How has your journey been so far, and what impact have you made in this region?
Vikash Agarwall: My journey has been rewarding, but it has not been without challenges, particularly in establishing a professional consultancy firm in this region, where professionalism in business services is still developing. Our goal has always been to provide comprehensive services under one roof, particularly in industrial and environmental management. Recently, we were empanelled by the Government of India’s QCI department as an organizing partner for ZED certification, which has been a proud achievement after years of hard work.
BNE: How do you support entrepreneurs, especially from rural parts of Assam and the other northeastern states?
Vikash Agarwal: While our primary focus has been on Assam, we are expanding into Arunachal Pradesh and have recently opened an office in Naharlagun. We work closely with DICs, NGOs, and other organizations to provide guidance and motivation, particularly to women entrepreneurs and the younger generation. We want to help them establish and scale their businesses in a professional manner.
BNE: In your interactions with entrepreneurs, how do you perceive the awareness and engagement levels in this region?
Vikash Agarwall: Five years ago, traditional businesses dominated the landscape in Assam. However, with the rise of technology and increased education, there has been a noticeable shift towards professionalism. Young people are increasingly interested in entrepreneurship, and the number of inquiries we receive daily is a testament to this growing interest. This enthusiasm motivates us to continue our work, as we see the potential in the younger generation to lead the next wave of business development in Assam.
BNE: Apart from ZED certification, what other certifications do businesses need to operate?
Vikash Agarwall: To start a business, the essential requirements are a trade license, UDYAM registration, and GST registration. Based on the specific industry, additional licenses may be required, such as pollution control certificates or FSSAI licenses for food businesses. We assist companies in obtaining these certifications and ensure they are compliant with all regulations necessary to operate effectively.
BNE: Does your consultancy offer support for other areas of business apart from certifications?
Vikash Agarwall: Yes, we provide support in various areas, including environment management, HR compliances, and groundwater permissions. We have a dedicated team that offers expertise in these fields, and we also collaborate with external experts when necessary. Our goal is to ensure that businesses have all the tools they need to operate efficiently.
BNE: Are there any fees for obtaining these certifications?
Vikash Agarwall: The Government of India currently offers ZED Bronze certification free of charge, and we provide UDYAM registration for women entrepreneurs free of charge as well. Some other certifications, such as trade licenses and GST registrations, have nominal government fees depending on factors like location and investment levels. However, we strive to provide our services at minimal or no cost whenever possible.
BNE: How is your team structured, and where are they from?
Vikash Agarwall: I am proud to say that my entire team is from Assam, and all of my colleagues are women. We have eight members, and I believe that the precision and dedication women bring to their work are invaluable. While we do collaborate with external experts when needed, our core team is local, and their understanding of the region is a key asset.
BNE: Do you offer training to help entrepreneurs overcome business challenges?
Vikash Agarwall: Yes, we regularly conduct seminars and webinars to help entrepreneurs tackle business challenges and provide them with the knowledge they need. In the last few months, we’ve held three seminars for women entrepreneurs and college students. We believe that empowering local businesses contributes to the growth of the state and helps achieve the national goal of a $5 trillion economy.
BNE: What are your thoughts on women’s empowerment, given that your team is women-centric?
Vikash Agarwall: The growth of women entrepreneurs in Assam has been remarkable over the past three years. However, I’ve noticed that many women lack awareness about how to scale their businesses. Scaling is essential not only for the businesswoman herself but also for inspiring her family and community. When women entrepreneurs succeed, they motivate others to pursue entrepreneurship, and this has a ripple effect throughout society. I encourage more women to take advantage of the opportunities available, especially with the support provided by both state and central government programs.
FIRST Business Portal addressing the potential of business capability of North East Region.
