Palampur (Kameshwar Sharma): The MSME Awareness Workshop Palampur was organized by the Industries Department under the Ministry of MSME’s Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme. The one-day workshop took place at the SDM Office in Palampur on June 6.
The event aimed to connect MSME units and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with digital literacy, brand development, and government procurement opportunities through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. As a result, participants gained practical knowledge to expand their businesses and improve market access.
Officials Highlight Government Support for Entrepreneurs
District Industries Centre General Manager Om Prakash Jaryal attended the MSME Awareness Workshop Palampur as the chief guest. During his address, he emphasized that such regional workshops play a crucial role in connecting rural entrepreneurs with government initiatives.
Furthermore, he encouraged participants to learn about schemes such as PM Mudra Yojana, Stand-Up India, Credit Guarantee Scheme, and Marketing Assistance Programmes. In addition, he stressed the importance of spreading awareness about these opportunities among aspiring entrepreneurs.
According to Jaryal, rural enterprises can achieve significant growth when they actively utilize government support and digital tools.
Focus on Digital Literacy and Brand Building
A major highlight of the MSME Awareness Workshop Palampur was its focus on digital literacy and branding. Trainers explained how small businesses can use WhatsApp Business, social media platforms, UPI payments, and online marketing tools to increase visibility and attract customers.
Moreover, experts discussed practical strategies for product packaging, storytelling, and customer trust-building. They also explained how local products can reach wider markets through effective branding techniques.
Additionally, participants learned about financial discipline, record management, and the importance of maintaining product quality. Therefore, the sessions provided a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable business growth.
Information Shared on PMEGP Benefits
During the workshop, Om Prakash Jaryal also explained the benefits available under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP).
He informed participants that the scheme offers loans of up to ₹50 lakh for manufacturing units and up to ₹20 lakh for service-sector enterprises. Furthermore, women, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes can receive subsidies of up to 35 percent.
Meanwhile, eligible beneficiaries from the general category can receive subsidies of up to 25 percent. Consequently, officials encouraged participants to share this information with others so that more people can benefit from these schemes.
GeM Portal Training Attracts Strong Participation
The third session of the MSME Awareness Workshop Palampur focused on awareness and onboarding for the GeM portal’s CPP module.
During this session, Amit Kumar explained the functioning of the GeM platform and demonstrated the registration process. He informed participants that SHGs, MSMEs, and startups can directly supply products and services to government departments through the portal.
As a result, entrepreneurs can access transparent procurement processes, timely payments, and nationwide business opportunities.
On-the-Spot Registration Benefits Participants
The workshop also provided on-the-spot GeM registration and onboarding support. Consequently, many women entrepreneurs and SHG members completed their vendor registration during the event itself.
Furthermore, the technical team resolved registration-related issues and guided participants through every step of the process. This hands-on support significantly increased confidence among first-time users of the platform.
Positive Response from Participants
More than 30 MSME units and SHG members participated enthusiastically in the MSME Awareness Workshop Palampur. Notably, women entrepreneurs from the Palampur region formed a significant part of the audience.
At the conclusion of the event, participants said the training gave them valuable guidance on digital expansion and government procurement opportunities. Meanwhile, the RAMP Team Kangra expressed confidence that local entrepreneurs would use the knowledge gained to strengthen their businesses.
Therefore, officials believe the workshop will contribute to stronger MSME growth and greater economic empowerment in the district.
Key Points of MSME Awareness Workshop Palampur
- The Industries Department organized the workshop under the RAMP Programme.
- Participants received training in digital literacy, branding, and online marketing.
- Officials shared details about PMEGP, Mudra, Stand-Up India, and other schemes.
- Entrepreneurs received GeM portal onboarding and registration support.
- More than 30 MSME units and SHG members participated in the workshop.
