The MSME PCI Mart, an initiative of the MSME Promotion Council of India (MSMEPCI), is positioning itself as a retail platform similar to Vishal Mart, aimed at helping entrepreneurs sell their products across India and even abroad. Applications for the franchise have now opened in Mokokchung.
“This is basically to help the entrepreneurs sell their products all over India as well as abroad if their products are good,” said Imnayanger Jamir, Vice Chairman of MSME PCI Mokokchung.
According to Jamir, MSME PCI Mart offers multiple benefits, including minimization of franchise fees, 60–70 percent of sales returns, and the potential for employment generation. “Anybody can take up the franchise as long as they have the space. Usually, it needs about 100 x 800 ft, but for places like Mokokchung, 200 to 600 sq ft is enough,” he said.
Products at the mart will range from Rs 19 to Rs 99 and will include items from Indian entrepreneurs spanning FMCG, household goods, personal care, and more. MSME PCI will also provide logistical support to franchisees. The number of products available will depend on the size of the store. “Entrepreneurs will pay only half the cost of goods; for example, goods worth Rs 2 lakh will require a payment of Rs 1 lakh,” Jamir explained.
So far, only one application for a franchise has been received from Mokokchung, but the applicant is reportedly facing difficulty in finding adequate space. To apply, interested entrepreneurs need an Aadhaar card, PAN card, trade permit from the Mokokchung Municipal Council, and a no-objection certificate.
At a broader level, the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) is promoting its flagship Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) and Lean Manufacturing Competitiveness (Lean MSME) schemes to improve export readiness. The ZED scheme encourages manufacturers to adopt sustainable, high-quality production with “zero defects” and “zero effect” on the environment, while the Lean MSME scheme focuses on reducing waste and improving efficiency.
Entrepreneurs seeking ZED and Lean certification must appear for an exam. Certification not only validates quality and efficiency standards but can also help increase the MRP of their products, enhancing competitiveness in domestic and international markets.
The MSME PCI Mart will also help entrepreneurs sell their products through e-commerce, providing additional avenues to reach buyers across India and abroad.
“The franchise will be offered on a first come first basis,” said Jamir, adding that there can be only one mart in Mokokchung district until there is a rise in demand and population expands.
