The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) organized a special awareness programme for MSME and entrepreneurs marking the occasion of International MSME Day. The event highlighted RBI’s long-standing commitment to strengthening India’s micro, small, and medium enterprises, which are widely acknowledged as the backbone of the nation’s economy.
Sh. Vivek Srivastava, Regional Director, RBI Chandigarh was the chief guest on the occasion. Speaking at the event, he highlighted that the RBI has constantly championed the case of MSME sector through its initiatives such as Priority Sector Lending (PSL), TreDs, Collateral-Free Loans under CGTMSE, guidelines on Credit Proposal Tracking system, specialized MSME branches, restructuring, etc. which have helped millions of entrepreneurs access finance, grow their businesses, and contribute to India's GDP and exports.
He also highlighted that despite a comprehensive policy framework, persistent operational and structural bottlenecks continue to challenge the MSME landscape. Strengthening outreach for increased awareness is imperative to ensure that government and central bank welfare schemes directly reach and benefit the intended grassroots recipients.
The event was also graced by Sh. Pankaj Setiya, GM, RBI, senior officials from SBI, HDFC, PNB, Canara Bank, PSB, PGB, Capital SFB and others along with senior officials from SIDBI, DIC, MSME DFO and other key stakeholders. The programme featured deep-dive sessions on key government and RBI credit initiatives, including TreDs, MUDRA, PMEGP, PM Vishwakarma, and Stand-Up India.
A Canara Bank officer led hands-on sessions to help entrepreneurs navigate bank credit processes. The event prioritized women entrepreneurs and first-time borrowers, highlighting Stand-Up India, Mahila Udyam Nidhi, and digital onboarding. Banks addressed critical queries on delayed payments, collateral-free loans, and working capital, while local entrepreneurs showcased products at dedicated stalls.
RBI Team visited the MSME Sports Goods Cluster in Jalandhar to assess on-ground challenges. Local manufacturers shared how MUDRA and TReDS have successfully secured timely finance, optimized operations, and boosted local employment. Highlighting Jalandhar’s rich industrial and entrepreneurial legacy, the event marked a significant milestone in the RBI’s grassroots engagement strategy.
The program concluded with attending entrepreneurs expressing renewed confidence and clear pathways toward scaling their businesses.