MAIT launches dedicated portal for SMEs

BANGALORE, INDIA: MAIT, the apex body representing India's IT hardware, training and R&D services sectors, in association with the Department of Electronics & Information Technology (DeitY) and Ministry of MSME organized "MAIT ICT SME Conclave - 2014" in Bangalore.

Anwar Shirpurwala, executive director, MAIT, said "SME Conclave is an endeavor to reach out to SMEs in the IT sector from across the country, providing them a single platform to address their requirements and give them an opportunity to update their knowledge about various government schemes, business opportunities, latest technologies and investment opportunities available in IT sector in India and abroad. SME Chapter was created by MAIT last year as it recognizes the potential of SMEs acting as a growth engine for leading the sector forward".

The government, in the recently budget, had focused on measures related to the development of the SME sector in the country. SME Conclave aimed to equip the SMEs to prepare themselves thoroughly for evaluating the business opportunities and take necessary actions in developing their enterprises with the help of IT to achieve business goals.

The conclave witnessed participation from various government agencies and representatives from The Ministry of Communications & IT, Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC), MSME Development Institute, NSIC and EPEAT.

MAIT also announced the launch of its e-portal catering specifically to the SMEs.

Discussion at the conclave revolved around topics related with trained manpower and skill development, funding procedures, setting up of electronic manufacturing clusters and various schemes for supporting SMEs in the sector.

Rahul Gupta, chairman, SME Chapter, MAIT said "MAIT, over the years, has been working towards bringing the SMEs to the forefront and address their issues through its various initiatives. The government is also doing its bit by going all out in assisting SMEs through funding and other routes. With recent focus of making India a manufacturing hub, SMEs have a crucial part to play in it. The Conclave is a step towards providing a networking platform for SMEs and connect them with government representatives to get a better understanding of various schemes and policies for the benefit of the industry".