PM Vishwakarma-National SC-ST Hub Conclave Held in Baripada, Odisha

Baripada, April 16, 2025 – The Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, organized the ‘PM Vishwakarma – National SC-ST Hub Conclave’ today at the Convention Hall, Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University, Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Odisha. The event aimed to promote and empower MSMEs in Odisha, fostering synergies among various stakeholders.

Co-chaired by Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, Hon’ble Union Minister of MSME, and Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, the conclave commenced with a ribbon-cutting and lamp-lighting ceremony, attended by dignitaries such as Shri Gokulananda Mallick, Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSME, and other key officials from the government and MSME sector.

The conclave featured an exhibition showcasing key initiatives such as the PM Vishwakarma Scheme and the National SC-ST Hub, which aim to support traditional artisans, craftsmen, and SC/ST entrepreneurs. The event also included presentations and experience-sharing sessions by beneficiaries of these schemes.

In his address, Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi emphasized the significant role the MSME sector plays in job creation and economic development, stating, “The Ministry of MSME is truly a ministry of vision. Our efforts are helping empower individuals and improve livelihoods, with a particular focus on traditional artisans and craftspeople.”

Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha, highlighted the success of the PM Vishwakarma and SC-ST Hub schemes in benefiting the state’s residents. “PM Vishwakarma is transforming the lives of the middle class, and the Ministry’s initiatives have significantly supported Odisha’s MSME sector,” he said.

Launched in 2023, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme provides skill development, financial aid, and toolkits to traditional artisans. The National SC-ST Hub, introduced in 2016, empowers SC/ST entrepreneurs by offering capacity-building programs, market linkages, and access to technology and credit.

The conclave also featured the distribution of e-certificates to PM Vishwakarma beneficiaries and credit cheques to National SC-ST Hub and PMEGP beneficiaries. The event concluded with a commitment to furthering the growth of Odisha’s MSME sector, contributing to India’s vision of becoming the world’s third-largest economy by 2027-28.

The MSME sector, with over 6.25 crore enterprises and employing 26.7 crore individuals, continues to play a vital role in India’s economic progress, contributing nearly 30% to the nation’s GDP and over 45% to exports.