Aizawl: The ‘International Conference on MSMEs in North East,’ organized by the Federation of Industries in North Eastern Region (FINER), was held at the I&PR Auditorium, Treasury Square. Minister for Commerce & Industries, F. Rodingliana, graced the event as the chief guest.
In his address, the Minister thanked FINER and officials from the Ministry of MSME for choosing Aizawl as the venue and extended greetings to participants from Taiwan, local entrepreneurs, and students from universities and colleges.
He emphasised Mizoram’s untapped potential in agro-based and horticulture-based industries and introduced the government’s “Hand Holding” policy aimed at supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The policy includes allocations for cash crop cultivation, particularly ginger, turmeric, and chilli, with funds earmarked to boost product output and state revenue. The initiative converges various programs to financially assist entrepreneurs and farmers, positioning Mizoram as a hub for these industries.
Minister Rodingliana also highlighted Mizoram’s geographical challenges and limited connectivity, but underscored the state’s strengths in literacy, cultural unity, and its peaceful environment, making it a promising destination for investment. He invited MSMEs from across India and abroad to collaborate with local entrepreneurs and the government.
Maria CT Zuali, IAS, Director of Commerce and Industries, further outlined Mizoram’s potential in sectors such as agro-based, horticulture, bamboo-based industries, and handloom and handicrafts. She emphasized the state’s fertile land, favourable climate, and rich natural resources as key advantages, alongside its strategic location for trade with neighbouring countries.
The event commenced with a welcome speech by Bhaskar Kakoty, Director of FINER, who outlined the conference’s objectives and the initiatives led by FINER. Diwakar, representing MSME-DI Mizoram, also spoke on the Ministry’s initiatives for MSMEs in the state.
The conference consisted of two sessions—an inaugural session in the morning and a technical session in the afternoon. During the technical session, Ru Yi Yong from Taiwan presented “Bamboo Sector Opportunities,” while Jui Tai Hong discussed “Opportunities in MSME Sectors.” Dr. Himayoti Dutta from Mizoram University’s Department of Food Technology shared insights on “Food Processing in Mizoram from an Academic and Research Perspective.”
Entrepreneurs from both within and outside Mizoram, as well as students from Mizoram University and five other colleges, attended the conference.
The event underscored the vital role MSMEs play in India’s economic growth, rural industrialization, and job creation, while also addressing challenges such as limited access to finance, technology, and skills.
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