The Union government plans to set up a Centre of Excellence for artificial intelligence, robotics,and innovation in Bengaluru’s Peenya Industrial Area. This move is meant to help micro,small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) grow in Karnataka and beyond, according to Shobha Karandlaje,Minister of State for MSME. She revealed project at Global MSME Conclave’s award ceremony organized by the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) on Saturday.
Karandlaje pointed out how important MSMEs are to India’s economy. The sector employs about 330 million people and accounts for roughly 30% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). To boost entrepreneurship,the government has set aside nearly ₹30,000 crore in subsidies through the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Scheme.
Still,MSMEs face big hurdles . They struggle with a lack of skilled labor,limited access to technology and finance, and trouble marketing their products. The Minister urged industries to modernize,pushing for adoption of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics. “We are now competing with world. Products made by MSMEs must reach global markets,” she said.
Uma Reddy,president of FKCCI, shared these views, stressing how vital MSMEs are for job creation and innovation. She urged Central government to create a specific policy for micro and small enterprises, which make up 97% of the MSME sector. Reddy noted ongoing challenges with technology,finance,and market access,saying the conclave aims to empower MSMEs to grow and compete on a global scale.
Awards were given in various categories, including Women Entrepreneurs, Legacy Continuity,Social Impact,and Digital Leap. The three-day conclave wraps up on Sunday .
