"MSMEs are backbone of Gujarat, nation's development role model": CM Bhupendra Patel

Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], September 29 : Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel addressed the regional convention organised by Laghu Udyog Bharati for the Gujarat Region in Vadodara and stated that MSMEs are the backbone of Gujarat, a development role model for the country, adding that the government is making a holistic effort to provide a global platform for the MSME industry, empowering it to compete on a global scale.
The CM called upon everyone to commit to building a Viksit Bharat through Viksit Gujarat, guided by the motto Sauno Sath, Sauno Vikas, Sauno Vishvas, Ane Sauno Prayas.

Further, he noted that under the capable leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the manufacturing sector in the country has experienced significant transformation, creating new opportunities across various sectors.
The Prime Minister has promoted the mantra of "Unnat and Viksit Bharat," and the overall development in agriculture, services, and industry has fostered a strong spirit of national interest in achieving Viksit Bharat.
The Chief Minister stated that Laghu Udyog Bharati is an organisation focused on both the interests of the Indian industry and national welfare, continually working towards Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and the Make in India initiative.
The CM praised Laghu Udyog Bharati for organising this conference to foster collective brainstorming for industrial and national development.
He noted that PM Modi launched the MSME Industry, Ease of Doing Business, and Make in India programmes to reduce India's imports and boost exports. With Make in India recently celebrating its ten-year milestone, India has transformed into a powerhouse of manufacturing and innovation.
The Chief Minister highlighted that India has become the second-largest mobile manufacturer in the world, making significant strides in areas such as space, semiconductors, electronics, and electric vehicles.
He emphasised that the state government is acting as a facilitator between organisations and industries. Laghu Udyog Bharati is assisting these industries in establishing themselves by providing essential guidance to small enterprises. Additionally, cluster-based development and the "One District, One Product" policy are being promoted under the Prime Minister's leadership. India has a rich artistic heritage, and small-scale industries are playing a crucial role in reviving such clusters.
He remarked that Laghu Udyog Bharati and its associates are becoming partners in the nation's development journey. The Chief Minister stated that under Shri Narendra Modi's leadership, the spirit of "Nation First" is growing stronger across the entire country. Laghu Udyog Bharati is dedicated to advancing national interests by increasing production, creating employment, and promoting local industries. In Gujarat, Laghu Udyog Bharati operates across all districts, managing over eleven thousand files.
The Chief Minister further noted that the forethought of the Prime Minister has led to a significant promotion of innovation in the country, enhancing communication of new technologies. It is crucial to connect the technology developed in the country with small and medium industries, as this new technology positively impacts the productivity of small enterprises.
He expressed confidence that if Laghu Udyog Bharati intensifies its efforts in this area, small industries will reap substantial benefits.
He emphasised that the Prime Minister's goal today is "Make in India, Make for the World." We must now strive to capture the global market. To remain competitive on the world stage, the Prime Minister has introduced the mantra of "Zero Effect, Zero Defect." The current imperative is for Laghu Udyog Bharati to serve as a guide for MSMEs, helping them enhance eco-friendly and quality production practices.
He stated that due to effective policies in Gujarat and the country under the leadership of PM Modi, an ideal ecosystem has been established for the MSME industry.
He noted that Gujarat has emerged as the most preferred destination in the country for capital investment. The MSME sector in Gujarat is flourishing due to its strong infrastructure, progressive policies, and commitment to promoting the ease of doing business. Additionally, sector-based policies, accessibility to skilled manpower, and a solid legal framework are further promoting the growth of the MSME sector.
Highlighting the country's rapid advancement towards becoming the third-largest economy during the Prime Minister's third term, the Chief Minister noted that a budget of Rs 48 lakh crore has been announced this year under the Prime Minister's leadership. This budget places a strong emphasis on generating employment by strengthening the MSME sector.
Elaborating on the policies introduced for the MSME sector in the Union Budget, he remarked that as India progresses towards becoming the third-largest economy, opportunities are increasing in new areas, especially in emerging sectors. This growth will pave the way for numerous new industries and startups. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the state government is actively strengthening sector-based industries.
He encouraged Laghu Udyog Bharati MSMEs to leverage the government's small-scale industry policies by raising awareness of the state government's initiatives. The Chief Minister assured them that the government is always ready to address the challenges faced by MSMEs.
Ghanshyam Ojha, the National President of Laghu Udyog Bharati, noted that MSMEs contribute 35 per cent to the country's GDP. He highlighted that Gujarat is advancing on the path of development through MSMEs. Laghu Udyog Bharati began in 1994 with 50 entrepreneurs, aiming to support their growth. Today, it has grown into a robust network, connecting over 55,000 entrepreneurs across 490 districts in the country.
Baldev Prajapati, in charge of Laghu Udyog Bharati for Gujarat and Rajasthan, emphasised that Laghu Udyog Bharati is not in competition with other organizations but is dedicated to fostering development in collaboration with them. The organisation showcases products from women entrepreneurs through 'Swayam Siddha' exhibition fairs, empowering women and contributing to the economy. Additionally, Gram Shilpi is helping entrepreneurs accelerate their efforts. There are ongoing initiatives to establish offices in every district to support small industry organizations through the Svavalambi Abhiyan.
The Government of India is also making significant contributions to water audits, and technology essential for small industries has been exchanged through an agreement with the CSIR institution of the Central Government, aiding the growth of many industries across the country.
In his welcome speech, Sandeep Shah, General Secretary of the Karnavati Division, emphasised Laghu Udyog Bharati's outstanding role in India's development. The organisation aims to empower small businesses by providing the necessary resources to unleash their creativity. Laghu Udyog Bharati has established an ecosystem that supports small industries by acting as a vital link between the government and entrepreneurs.
Presentations were made by GeM and the District Industries Centre during the program. In attendance at this regional conference was the Chief Whip of the Legislative Assembly, Balkrishna Shukla, Secretary of Laghu Udyog Bharati Akhil Bhartiya Sangathan Prakash Chandra Gupta, Gujarat State General Secretary Ishwar Sajjan, Karnavati Division President Ishwar Patel, District Vadodara Chairman Viral Chaudhary, Mayor Pinky Soni, MP Hemang Joshi, MLA Keyur Rokadiya, Manisha Vakil, and various entrepreneurs from Laghu Udyog Bharati.