Lucknow, May 6 (UNI) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday emphasised the need for continuous upskilling and modernisation of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) units in Uttar Pradesh in line with evolving market demands.
While reviewing the functioning of the MSME Department, the CM said, "As the state hosts the country's largest MSME base, it is important to adopt a robust strategy to build the capacity of youth engaged in this sector. Aspiring entrepreneurs under the 'CM-YUVA' scheme must undergo comprehensive and high-quality training before being granted loans."
He said that MSMEs drive grassroots economic activities and serve as anchor units for large-scale industries. "With around 96 lakh active MSME units, contributing approximately 46 percent to the state's total exports and generating direct and indirect employment for over 1.65 crore people," he said.
Yogi called for strengthening the sector strategically to fulfil the vision of 'Vocal for Local', 'Local to Global' and 'Brand UP'.
Calling the present situation ideal for gaining global recognition for UP's traditional craftsmanship, agro-based products and innovation-led enterprises, he directed that all state schemes prioritise economic empowerment of youth, women, entrepreneurs and rural communities. He stressed the need to monitor these initiatives regularly to ensure effective implementation.
During the review of self-employment initiatives, it was informed that in FY 2023-24, over 3.21 lakh youth registered under the 'Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan' (CM YUVA) and more than 56,000 applications were received.
The CM directed that timely loan disbursement be ensured in line with the annual target of one lakh beneficiaries and that coordination with banking institutions be strengthened. He reiterated that proper training for selected applicants is essential before the release of funds.
During the review meeting, he was informed that under the Vishwakarma Shram Samman Yojana, the number of trained artisans and toolkit distributions has seen a significant jump, from 7,600 beneficiaries in 2018-19 to over 75,000 in 2023-24.
Emphasising the scheme's growing impact, Yogi directed the officials to expand its coverage further, ensure the quality of training and maintain the strength and usefulness of the toolkits provided.
Highlighting innovative infrastructure models for MSMEs, he praised the flattened factory complex as an effective approach to facilitate multi-unit industrial operations in limited urban spaces. Citing Kanpur as a successful example, he recommended replicating the model in other cities and involving the private sector as an active partner.
Providing updates on the Mukhyamantri Swarojgar Yojana, the officials informed that margin money worth Rs 760 crore has been disbursed against over 31,000 applications, creating approximately 2.5 lakh jobs.
Discussing the progress of the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, the CM noted its pivotal role in reviving traditional crafts and small-scale industries across the state. "Since 2018, margin money of Rs 635 crore has been disbursed, alongside extensive support in training, marketing, design and technical assistance," he said.
He directed the officials to enhance global branding, packaging and design of ODOP products to strengthen their competitiveness in international markets. It was also informed that UP leads the nation with 77 products receiving GI tags and GI registration is underway for an additional 25 products.
A target has been set to secure GI tags for 75 more products in the current financial year. To boost awareness and marketability of GI-tagged items, Yogi directed that relevant entrepreneurs be registered as GI Authorised Users, helping preserve product authenticity and promote effective branding.
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