Dimapur, 6 October (MTNews): In a bid to bolster economic growth and empower local entrepreneurs, the Business Association of Nagas (BAN), in collaboration with the Ministry of MSME Development and Facilitation Office, Dimapur, organized a Vendor Development Program (VDP) at the Hotel Lake Shilloi in Dimapur on 6 October 2023.
The primary objective of the VDP was the Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) Order, 2012. This policy mandates that each Central Government Agency allocate 20% of their annual procurement for medium and small enterprises, with 4% of this allocation reserved specifically for businesses owned by SC/ST entrepreneurs.
A key aspect of the meeting was the guidance provided by A Selwin Samraj, Assistant Director (Mech) at MSME Development & Facilitation Office, on how entrepreneurs can register their businesses on online procurement portals like the Government E-Marketplace (GeM).
The event also witnessed participation from representatives of several CPSUs and Central Government Organizations who shared their experiences in complying with the Public Procurement Policy. They discussed the challenges faced in meeting the targeted procurement from SC/ST entrepreneurs, underscoring the significance of local entrepreneurs registering on the portal.
Moreover, these organizations unveiled their procurement requirements for the upcoming year, urging local entrepreneurs to step up to the challenge and contribute to the regional economy.
The VDP served as a vibrant platform for entrepreneurs to interact with buyer organizations.
Several businesses also set up stalls to exhibit their diverse range of products and services, showcasing the strength and potential of Nagaland’s entrepreneurial community.
Taliwati Longchar, IEDS, Joint Director & HOO, MSME Development & Facilitation Office, called on Naga entrepreneurs to become more aware of the Public Procurement Policy and seize the facilities and benefits it offers.
The program witnessed the presence of esteemed government agencies, including Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, Food Corporation of India, National Institute of Technology, Nagaland, three battalions of the Central Reserve Police Force, Airports Authority of India, CGST Commissionerate, and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
“The Vendor Development Program stands as a testament to BAN’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in Nagaland, unlocking a world of opportunities for local businesses,” stated BAN in a press release.
The event witnessed a remarkable turnout of business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, all eager to delve into the intricacies of marketing their products and services directly to Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) and other Central Government Organizations.