The Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) organised a two-day International Conference on Infusing Technology in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Sector aimed at fostering innovation and technological advancement in the MSME domain.
The conference, supported by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (IC Section), Government of India, was inaugurated on Tuesday in the presence of H.E. Mr. Chang Jae-Bok, Hon’ble Ambassador, Republic of South Korea. Hon’ble Guests, Ms. Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary, Ministry of MSME, Government of India; Mr Piruz Khambatta, Chairman, Rasna, & Chairman, CII Task Force, Ahmedabad, and Dr Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, were also present at the inauguration.
The conference provided a platform for discussions on the infusion of technology in the MSME sector, bringing together key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers. The event also witnessed the release of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor: India Report 2022-23, providing valuable insights into the entrepreneurial landscape of the country.
In his congratulatory speech, Ambassador Chang highlighted the pivotal role of MSMEs in nurturing the Korea-India bilateral relationship. He encouraged participants to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries by leveraging the power of entrepreneurship.
Ms. Mercy Epao in her address said, “As we witness a paradigm shift towards innovation and global competitiveness in the MSME sector, I encourage entrepreneurs to seize the abundant opportunities facilitated by vibrant ecosystems, supportive policies, and a focus on research. Let us collectively elevate the MSME sector and contribute significantly to economic growth. I applaud EDII for its pivotal role in advancing the objectives of the Ministry and contributing meaningfully to the nation’s economic development.”
Mr Khambatta in his address said, “Entrepreneurial proficiency is a key factor for MSME entrepreneurs aiming to contribute significantly to economic growth. Higher entrepreneurial quotient among entrepreneurs strengthens the business ecosystem, creating a resilient and sustainable model for growth. This conference is a big step towards creating knowledge infrastructure in the domain. I am sure such efforts will further bolster MSME growth across the globe by giving a platform for experience sharing and mutual learning.”
Dr Sunil Shukla in his welcome speech said, “MSMEs have come to play a vital role in the development of economies, across countries. India houses various beneficial MSME related schemes and policies, and is constantly seeking to institute ways and means to strengthen the sector. This conference will help strengthen initiatives in this realm. I express my gratitude to the Ministry of MSME for supporting this very thoughtful initiative.”
More than 200 national and 74 international delegates from 75 institutions attended the conference. During the conference, technical sessions will be held to provide a deep dive on the key themes of technology infusion and competitiveness in the MSME sector, digital transformation in MSMEs: opportunities & challenges, policies and regulations: framework for MSMEs, and skill development and technology adoption in MSMEs: leveraging industry 4.0.
The sessions will be delivered by imminent speakers like Dr. Nimnual Piewthongngam, Chairperson, SME Committee, Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand, Bangkok; Amaya Ashani Palihawadana, Visiting Lecturer, Ministry of Sports and Rural Development, Sri Lanka; Charles Amoako Atta, State Interests and Governance Authority, Ghana; Dr Jaimin Vasa, Chairman & Managing Director, Vasa Pharmachem; Vinod Agarwal, Chairman, Arunaya Organics & Past Chairman of CII Gujarat; Dr Bharti Motwani, Associate Professor, University of Maryland, USA, and Dr Satya Ranjan Acharya, Professor & Director, Dept. Entrepreneurship Education, EDII.