BUILDING A STRONGER MSME ECOSYSTEM IN NAGALAND
Implementation of Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme, a Government of India initiative, has begun in Nagaland under the Department of Industries and Commerce, with the Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation Limited (NIDC) as the implementing agency.
In a press release, I&C department informed that RAMP scheme has ushered in a fresh wave of opportunities, resources and technical expertise for local entrepreneurs, marking a turning point in the state’s approach to enterprise development.
Over the next three years, the department said RAMP aims to strengthen 18,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nagaland. Besides, the scheme also seeks to formalise 12,000 unregistered businesses, and assist 3,000 food-based units in securing FSSAI Basic Licenses. It would ensure that at least 20 per cent of beneficiaries would be women entrepreneurs, and 3% would be persons with disabilities.
Naturally Nagaland Initiative: Naturally Nagaland Initiative, a key component of the programme, would provide MSMEs with training in quality improvement, export readiness, marketing and business management. The plan includes 192 sector-specific workshops with industry specialists over three years, as well as branding and marketing support. MSME product display hangers would also be established at select locations to connect products with buyers.
Focus on Quality and Sustainability: The department informed that training programmes on Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) and LEAN manufacturing have started statewide to help entrepreneurs improve quality, reduce waste and streamline operations.
It stated that financial support of up to 20%, capped at Rs.50,000 per unit, would be available for energy-efficient machinery or retrofitting. In the food sector, the department said 1,300 MSMEs would receive assistance to obtain FSSAI Basic Licenses.
Financing and Market Access: I&C department stated that RAMP was also creating a dedicated Bankers Facilitation Centre to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs and financial institutions. It said MSMEs could also take advantage of an interest subvention of up to 3% on loans, lowering borrowing costs and making it easier to invest in growth.
Further, it stated that Vendor Development Programmes for 400 MSMEs, Buyer Sellers meets, Exporter State Summits and Technology Clinics in priority sectors would connect entrepreneurs directly to customers, suppliers and industry leaders. The department informed that specialised workshops on packaging, branding and marketing would give businesses the tools to present their products for greater impact.
Support for New Entrepreneurs: The scheme also targets aspiring business owners. It said that entrepreneurship development programmes were being held throughout the year in all districts.
Officials stated that the scheme would help create a more competitive and resilient MSME sector in Nagaland, improving market presence, and opening opportunities both within the country and beyond.