Post News Network
Cuttack, Dec 12: MSME Expo Orissa-2014, a national-level vendor development programme-cum-industrial exhibition got off to a ceremonious start at Baliyatra Ground here Thursday.
More than 20 companies including Nalco, SBI and East Coast Railways (ECoR) are participating in the exhibition, which was organised by state micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) minister Jogendra Behera.
Addressing the congregation, the minister highlighted the need to develop the MSME sector in the state as it plays a crucial role in economic progress of the country as well as the state. State director of Industries N Palai said, “The MSME sector contributes about eight per cent to the state’s gross domestic product and the government is committed to ensure all-round development of the sector.”
The state government has come up with several incentives for MSME traders so that they can pursue their business goals without hassles. MSME secretary Panchanan Das said the sector in Orissa has grown over the years but there are several issues which need to be addressed. Dash said there is a dearth of entrepreneurs in the state and the need of the hour is to encourage youngsters to start new ventures.
ECoR controller of stores EK Krishna Murthy said the Railways extends whole-hearted support to the expo and the sector.
The expo, which will continue till December 14, will remain open for visitors between 10am and 9.30pm. Various nationalised banks of the country including State Bank of India, UCO Bank and SIDBI are participating in the expo and will provide required information on availing loans for MSME ventures to interested persons. Besides, discussions are slated for developing food processing indsustries in the state.
