EDII Hosts International Conference to Drive Technological Infusion in MSME Sector

The Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) recently organized a landmark two-day International Conference focused on ‘Infusing Technology in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Sector.’ The event, inaugurated on Tuesday, aimed to catalyze innovation and technological advancement within the MSME domain, garnering support from the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (IC Section), Government of India.

Distinguished guests, including H.E. Mr. Chang Jae-Bok, Hon’ble Ambassador, Republic of South Korea; Ms. Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary, Ministry of MSME, Government of India; Mr. Piruz Khambatta, Chairman, Rasna, & Chairman, CII Task Force, Ahmedabad, and Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, were present at the inauguration, signifying the importance of the event.

The conference served as a collaborative platform for discussions on the integration of technology in the MSME sector, bringing together key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers. Notably, it also marked the release of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor: India Report 2022-23, offering valuable insights into the entrepreneurial landscape of the country.

Ambassador Chang, in his congratulatory speech, emphasized the pivotal role of MSMEs in fostering the bilateral relationship between Korea and India. He encouraged participants to strengthen cooperation between the two nations by leveraging the power of entrepreneurship.

Ms. Mercy Epao, in her address, acknowledged the shifting paradigm towards innovation and global competitiveness in the MSME sector. She urged entrepreneurs to seize opportunities facilitated by vibrant ecosystems, supportive policies, and a focus on research to elevate the MSME sector and contribute significantly to economic growth. Ms. Epao applauded EDII for its crucial role in advancing the Ministry’s objectives and contributing meaningfully to the nation’s economic development.

Mr. Piruz Khambatta highlighted the importance of entrepreneurial proficiency for MSME entrepreneurs aiming to contribute significantly to economic growth. He emphasized that a higher entrepreneurial quotient among entrepreneurs strengthens the business ecosystem, creating a resilient and sustainable model for growth. Khambatta commended the conference as a significant step towards creating knowledge infrastructure in the domain, fostering mutual learning and experience sharing on a global scale.

Dr. Sunil Shukla, in his welcome speech, underscored the vital role played by MSMEs in the development of economies worldwide. He highlighted India’s various beneficial MSME-related schemes and policies and expressed gratitude to the Ministry of MSME for supporting this thoughtful initiative. Dr. Shukla emphasized that the conference would strengthen initiatives aimed at bolstering the MSME sector.

The conference saw the participation of more than 200 national and 74 international delegates from 75 institutions. Technical sessions were conducted, delving into key themes such as technology infusion and competitiveness in the MSME sector, digital transformation in MSMEs, policies and regulations, and skill development and technology adoption, with a focus on leveraging industry 4.0.

Renowned speakers such as Dr. Nimnual Piewthongngam from Thailand, Amaya Ashani Palihawadana from Sri Lanka, Charles Amoako Atta from Ghana, and other industry experts provided insights during these sessions, contributing to the exchange of ideas and best practices in the dynamic realm of MSMEs. The conference proved to be a significant step towards fostering global collaboration and knowledge-sharing for the growth and innovation of the MSME sector.