A boom in Digital Technology has transformed the world in numerous ways, and has essentially become indispensable for business to remain competitive and connect with a wider market. In manufacturing too, it has optimized every step of the manufacturing process by supporting AI monitored production, and thus enhancing quality for businesses. At the micro scale, several technologies create a ground for connecting entrepreneurs with customers from across the globe. This makes it imperative for MSMEs to leverage the benefit of the digital tools and increase their reach and businesses.
The Role of MSMEs in India’s Economic Growth
In India, the micro sector with 630.52 lakh estimated enterprises account for more than 99% of the total estimated number of 633.88 MSMEs. For India to increase its global presence, it is essential that the technology outcome and benefits reach the grassroot level and encourage MSMEs to leverage the benefit of the digital tools.
CII and Mastercard’s Project Digital Saksham
CII, in partnership with Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, launched Project Digital Saksham in 2021 that has proved to be extremely successful. The project aims to augment and enrich the digital capabilities of businesses, particularly the micro enterprises. The program primarily focuses on equipping enterprises with the necessary tools, knowledge, and skills to leverage digital technologies more effectively.
Training Programs Across States and Clusters
At present, the project is organizing training for micro-enterprises in 13 states and 55 clusters to resolve the challenges these entrepreneurs witness in adopting digital tools. To ensure maximum participation and guarantee learning at the training programmes with the requisite content is provided in the language of states, such as, Hindi, Telugu, Bengali, Punjabi, Malayalam, Odia, Marathi, Assamese and Kannada, many trainers are on board from the surrounding areas for an uninterrupted communication flow.
Digital Saksham’s Approach to Digital Literacy
Digital Saksham adopts a multi-faceted approach to digital literacy, offering training programs that cover a range of skills essential for thriving in the digital era. The initiative helps individuals universally, irrespective of their prior exposure to technology. To resolve geographical boundaries and integrate these micro-enterprises in the formal economy, the trainers support the entrepreneurs with Udyam Registration to showcase their products on the Government e market place and other digital platforms.
Impact on MSMEs and Community Development
The skills imparted by Project Digital Saksham motivate individuals to participate more actively in the modern, technology driven world. The training programs also focus on fostering a deeper understanding of the impact digital literacy has on personal and community development. Under these training the trainers are also helping the micro-entrepreneurs to understand and leverage the benefit of the state and centre schemes for MSMEs.
Case Studies: Training Impact in Odisha and Uttar Pradesh
To share an example from Odisha, it is interesting to note that the trainers are also working with the tribals where the first step of learning is to help them understand that they are MSMEs. Multiple trainings are being organised for these entrepreneurs where they learn about the MSMEs schemes offered by state and central government.
The program in Uttar Pradesh is ushering in a new era of cultural preservation and economic progress by blending modern technology with traditional handicraft. Several noteworthy examples include Lucknow’s Digital Saree Emporium connecting regional weavers with global audiences; and Varanasi’s Digital Silk Route, showcasing the city’s silk products worldwide. Also commendable are the Digital Leathercraft initiative in Sonbhadra that promotes traditional leather manufacturing globally; Agra’s Digital Jewellery Atelier that redefines the industry by merging digital innovation with traditional craftsmanship; and Mathura’s Digital Flavours project contributing to the state’s digital renaissance, and thus, promoting collaboration between businesses, government agencies, and local communities.
Success Story of Ms. Yamini Choudhary from Maharashtra
Ms Yamini Choudhary from Aurgangabad in Maharashtra, is in the business of bulk tailoring. During the Covid era, due to acute shortage of masks, she received bulk orders to meet the demand. Gradually, as normalcy was restored, she had to reduce the production and had to look for an alternative in order to sustain her business. Digital Saksham training introduced her to the GeM portal to help her showcase her products on the portal. Currently, is actively exploring the possibility of augmenting orders on the government’s platform where she can offer her range of products.
In conclusion it can be claimed that Digital Saksham offers a diverse range of training programs and resources. By addressing the evolving needs of the digital age, the platform ensures that individuals are equipped with the skills required to navigate and succeed in today’s technology-driven world.
Through streamlining accessibility, interactivity, and community support, Digital Saksham is shaping a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.
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