Kullu workshop raises awareness about MSME schemes

The Himachal Pradesh Industries Department organised a one-day stakeholder workshop in Kullu under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) project to familiarise entrepreneurs with government schemes, financial assistance opportunities and business development initiatives.

More than 60 entrepreneurs and stakeholders attended the workshop. Praveen Lata, Manager, District Industries Centre, Kullu, was the chief guest. She urged entrepreneurs to take advantage of various government schemes to expand their businesses.

Participants were briefed on the objectives of the RAMP project, its role in developing the MSME sector and the opportunities available to entrepreneurs. The project aims to improve the competitiveness of micro, small and medium enterprises, address challenges affecting their growth and connect them with government schemes and facilities.

PM Vishwakarma scheme explained

A special awareness session on the PM Vishwakarma scheme was conducted by Natasha Katoch. She explained its objectives, eligibility criteria and benefits.

She said the scheme aims to support traditional artisans and craftspeople by strengthening their skills, products and livelihoods. Eligible beneficiaries are provided skill training, a prescribed stipend during the training period, toolkit incentives of up to Rs 15,000 for purchasing modern equipment and collateral-free loans at concessional interest rates.

The scheme also provides incentives for digital transactions and marketing support. These measures aim to improve product quality, expand market access and strengthen self-employment opportunities for traditional artisans and craftspeople.

The workshop focused on connecting entrepreneurs, traditional artisans and craftspeople in Kullu district with government schemes and financial assistance opportunities. It also sought to raise awareness about sustainable MSME growth, employment generation and economic empowerment in the region.