NITI Aayog Report Calls for Convergence of Ministry of MSME’s 18 Schemes
NITI Aayog releases a report calling for convergence of the Ministry of MSME’s 18 schemes due to overlapping objectives and fragmented implementation across ministries. The report provides for a two-pronged convergence approach and issues specific recommendations, including scheme mergers and a centralized digital platform.
NITI Aayog Report on Convergence of Ministry of MSME Schemes:
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Issuing authority | Released by NITI Aayog |
| Issue identified | Ministry of MSME administers 18 schemes having overlapping objectives and fragmented implementation across ministries |
| Convergence rationale | Helps avoid duplication and inefficiencies, reduces confusion by simplifying access for beneficiaries, and improves the conversion of resources into meaningful outcomes. |
| Two-pronged approach | Information convergence and process convergence |
| Information convergence | Integrating government-generated data at central and state levels to improve coordination and informed decision-making; PM Gati Shakti integrates 16 Central Ministries |
| Process convergence | Promotes merging similar schemes, integrating shared components, and strengthening collaboration across ministries and states, with Vigyan Dhara serving as an umbrella program covering three major components. |
| Cluster development schemes | Integration of Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) with MSE-Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP) |
| Skill development programmes | Rationalising skill initiatives into a three-tier structure covering entrepreneurship and business skills, MSME technical skills, and training for rural and women artisans |
| Digital platform | AI-powered centralized digital platform integrating schemes |
| Schemes to remain independent | Ensures major flagship programmes like Prime Minister's Employment Generation Program and PM Vishwakarma continue to operate independently. |
| MSME classification basis | Governed by investment and turnover as per Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act, 2006 |
| MSME significance | Employs around 62% of country’s workforce in terms of volume next only to agriculture; holds 45% in country’s exports; contributes 30% to GDP |