Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Assembly of Small and Medium Enterprises (OASME) observed its 38th annual state-level convention and Foundation Day here Monday. The event was inaugurated by Governor Raghubar Das in presence of Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Industries, Skill Development, and Technical Education Sampad Chandra Swain, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Gokulananda Mallik and other dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, Das praised OASME’s significant contributions to MSME development, particularly in supporting young entrepreneurs and women in the sector. He said, “We need policies that align with current requirements to create more employment opportunities with less investment.” Governor released a souvenir featuring articles on MSME promotion and felicitated successful entrepreneurs, women entrepreneurs, and industrial promotional officers with the OASME Award-2024 for their contributions to the MSME sector.
Also, a Directory on the SC/ST women entrepreneur’s database was unveiled on this occasion. Swain said, “The government is fully committed to supporting the MSME sector, recognising its crucial role in driving the state’s economic growth. “We encourage OASME to lead the charge in raising awareness and motivating local entrepreneurs to step forward and establish their businesses. With substantial budgetary provisions for MSME development, Odisha is on the path to significant progress,” he said.
In his address, Mallik, said, “The Central government is placing a strong emphasis on the development of Odisha, whether it be in industry or tourism. The skill level of our workforce is exceptionally high, yet due to existing gaps, these sectors are not fully explored.” OASME chairman Gauri Sankar Dash urged young entrepreneurs to step forward in the field of MSMEs, alongside agriculture. The event concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between OASME and the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), followed by an annual general meeting and a cultural programme.
RESHMI YADAV, OP