
Understanding MSME Full Form
MSME stands for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. These enterprises play a crucial role in driving economic growth and employment opportunities worldwide. The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (M/o MSMEs) issued a Gazette notification to implement revised definitions and criteria for MSMEs from July 1, 2020. This followed a 14-year gap since the enactment of the MSME Development Act in 2006. The revision, announced under the Atmanirbhar Bharat package on May 13, 2020, increased investment and turnover limits for micro, small, and medium units. Get Lendingkart’s trusted MSME loan services to access lightning-fast, collateral-free small business loans with lowest commercial loan interest rates, empowering your business journey seamlessly.What is MSME – Classification and Types
The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector encompasses a diverse range of businesses crucial for economic growth and employment generation. As of July 1, 2020, the classification of MSMEs is based on a composite criteria of investment in plant & machinery/equipment and annual turnover.Classification of Enterprises Based on Turnover Thresholds
Classification of Companies | Turnover Threshold |
---|---|
Micro enterprises | Up to Rs. 5 crore |
Small enterprises | Up to Rs. 50 crore |
Medium enterprises | Up to Rs. 250 crore |
Classification of Enterprises Based on Net Turnover and Net Investment
Net Investment | Net turnover is > 5 crore | Net Turnover > ₹5 crore but < ₹50 crore | Net turnover > 50 crore but <250 crore | Net Turnover > ₹250 crore |
---|---|---|---|---|
Does not surpass ₹1 crore | Micro Enterprise | Small Enterprise | Medium Enterprise | Out of MSME fold (large enterprise) |
> 1 crore but < 10 crore | Small Enterprise | Small Enterprise | Medium Enterprise | Out of MSME fold (large enterprise) |
> 10 crore but < ₹50 crore | Medium Enterprise | Medium Enterprise | Medium Enterprise | Out of MSME fold (large enterprise) |
Surpasses ₹50 crore | Out of MSME fold (large enterprise) | Out of MSME fold (large enterprise) | Out of MSME fold (large enterprise) | Out of MSME fold (large enterprise) |
How Do MSMEs Contribute To The Indian Economy?
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in driving India’s economic growth and development. They contribute significantly to employment generation, accounting for a substantial portion of both urban and rural employment opportunities. MSMEs foster entrepreneurship, innovation, and industrialization across various sectors, thereby promoting inclusive growth. These enterprises also serve as a crucial source of income and livelihood for millions of people, particularly in rural areas, where they often form the backbone of local economies. Moreover, MSMEs contribute to exports, enhancing India’s trade competitiveness and foreign exchange earnings. By supporting MSMEs through favorable policies, access to finance, and skill development initiatives, the Indian government aims to unleash their full potential and further accelerate economic growth, job creation, and socio-economic development across the country. Access lightning-fast, collateral-free small business loans with lowest commercial interest rates on MSME/SME Loan through Lendingkart, empowering your business journey effortlessly.Contribution of MSMEs in Country’s Economy at Current Price
Year |
MSME- Addition of Gross Value |
Growth (%) |
Total Addition of Gross Value |
Share of MSME in GVA (%) |
Total GDP |
Share of MSME in GDP (in %) |
2011-12 |
2622574 |
– |
8106946 |
32.35 |
8736329 |
30 |
2012-13 |
3020528 |
15.17 |
9202692 |
32.82 |
9944013 |
30.40 |
2013-14 |
3389922 |
12.23 |
10363153 |
32.71 |
11233522 |
30.20 |
2014-15 |
3704956 |
9.29 |
11504279 |
32.21 |
12467959 |
29.70 |
2015-16 |
4025595 |
8.65 |
12566646 |
32.03 |
13764037 |
29.20 |
2016-17 |
4405753 |
9.44 |
13841591 |
31.83 |
15253714 |
28.90 |
Benefits of MSME Registration:
- Collateral-Free Bank Loans: MSMEs can access credit without providing collateral, facilitating easy funding for small and micro-businesses through schemes like The Credit Guarantee Trust Fund Scheme.
- Subsidy on Patent Registration: Registered MSMEs receive a 50% subsidy on patent registration fees, encouraging innovation and technological advancement.
- Overdraft Interest Rate Exemption: MSMEs enjoy a 1% interest rate exemption on overdrafts, providing financial stability during market downturns.
- Industrial Promotion Subsidy Eligibility: Registered MSMEs are eligible for subsidies aimed at promoting industrial development, fostering growth opportunities. Eligibility criteria for MSMEs include registration and compliance with regulations.
- Protection Against Delayed Payments: MSMEs are safeguarded against delayed payments, with buyers mandated to settle payments within specified timelines or face penalties.
- Concessions on Electricity Bills: MSMEs benefit from reduced electricity bills, enabling cost savings and facilitating increased production capacity.
- ISO Certification Charges Reimbursement: MSMEs can claim reimbursement for expenses incurred in obtaining ISO certification, encouraging adherence to international quality standards and facilitating export opportunities.
Challenges faced by MSMEs:
Now that you know well about what is MSME loan, you should also be aware of some challenges. MSMEs encounter numerous hurdles, from financial limitations to regulatory complexities. These challenges hinder growth, innovation, and competitiveness, impacting their ability to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape. Some challenges are listed below –- Financial constraints: Limited access to affordable financing hinders growth, innovation, and productivity. Credit history gaps lead to expensive loans, and banks often demand additional collateral, resulting in loan rejections.
- Infrastructure limitations: Inadequate investment in infrastructure constraints MSME growth. Government cluster development initiatives aim to address this issue.
- Skilled labor shortage: Difficulty in offering competitive compensation makes it challenging for MSMEs to attract and retain skilled workers, hampering innovation and competitiveness.
- Regulatory burden: MSMEs grapple with excessive regulatory requirements, particularly in their initial stages.
- Lack of awareness about government support: Limited knowledge about available credit and financial assistance schemes, such as MSME loans, further complicates the situation.

Government schemes available to MSMEs:
- Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme for Technology Upgradation
- Credit Guarantee Scheme
- ISO 9000 certification and reimbursement scheme
- Participation in International Fairs
- Purchase and Price Preference Policy
- Prime Minister’s Rozgar Yojana (PMRY)
- Small Industry Cluster Development Program Scheme
- Integrated Infrastructural Development Schemes (IID)
- Mini Tool Rooms
- Support for Entrepreneurial and Managerial Development of SMEs through Business Incubators
- MSME MDA Scheme
- Assistance to Entrepreneurship Development Institutes
- Promotional schemes for women
- Schemes for weaker sections
- Scheme of Micro Finance Programme
- Scheme on (TREAD) for Women
- Other MSME Schemes
Opportunities in MSME
The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector presents a plethora of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. With its diverse range of industries and flexible business models, MSMEs offer avenues for innovation, growth, and prosperity. One of the key opportunities lies in tapping into niche markets and addressing specific consumer needs, allowing MSMEs to carve out a distinct competitive advantage. Moreover, advancements in technology and digitalization have opened up new avenues for MSMEs to expand their reach, streamline operations, and enhance customer engagement. Additionally, government initiatives and support schemes aimed at promoting MSME development provide access to funding, training, and networking opportunities, further fueling growth prospects. Overall, the MSME sector offers a fertile ground for entrepreneurs to capitalize on emerging trends, leverage their creativity, and contribute to economic development.Frequently Asked Questions
Latest News:
FCIK Urges MSMEs in Jammu & Kashmir to Embrace Solar Rooftop Installations
The Federation of Industries in Jammu and Kashmir (FCIK) is actively promoting solar rooftop installations among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to harness renewable energy’s untapped potential. Recognizing the dual benefits of sustainability and reduced dependence on conventional power, FCIK hosted a seminar to detail the practical benefits of adopting solar technology. This event focused on educating MSMEs about the financial incentives, technical support, and favorable regulatory frameworks that facilitate the adoption of solar installations.
FCIK highlighted that investing in solar technology not only reduces long-term operating costs and carbon emissions but also boosts MSMEs’ competitiveness and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices. Additionally, FCIK emphasized the importance of utilizing government initiatives, including subsidies, tax benefits, and financing options, to make solar solutions more accessible and affordable for small and medium-sized enterprises.
FCIK emphasized the solar potential in Jammu and Kashmir, urging MSMEs to utilize the region’s abundant sunlight and suitable climate by installing solar rooftops on available industrial and commercial spaces. This move will not only cut costs but also enhance sustainable development and energy independence. FCIK’s push for renewable energy adoption among MSMEs is key to economic growth and reducing fossil fuel reliance, helping to shape a sustainable future for the region.
News Updated Date: 04th June 2024
MSMEs Empowered: Defence Procurement Policy 2016’s ‘Make’ Procedure Boosts India’s Defence Sector
The Defence Procurement Policy (DPP) 2016 has unveiled a transformative ‘Make’ procedure, aimed at boosting India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative seeks to provide new opportunities for MSMEs, enhance domestic production, and offer more competitive pricing in the global defense market.
The ‘Make’ Procedure:
The ‘Make’ procedure comprises two key sub-categories:
- Make-I (Government Funded): For projects with prototype development costs under Rs. 10 crore, exclusively available to MSMEs. If fewer than two MSMEs apply, the bidding extends to all, with MSMEs retaining preference.
- Make-II (Industry Funded): For projects with prototype development costs under Rs. 3 crore, with a similar bidding process, favoring eligible MSMEs.
Benefits for India’s Defence Sector:
- Boosting Domestic Production: The ‘Make’ procedure encourages local manufacturing, particularly for smaller defense items, potentially saving Rs. 2,000 crore annually.
- Encouraging International Competition: The inclusion of MSMEs forces foreign companies to lower their prices, benefiting India’s defense industry and reducing costs.
- Streamlining Procurement: The DPP simplifies procurement, ensuring a steady flow of modern equipment.
Challenges and Solutions:
- Technical Shortcomings: The DPP involves key stakeholders like the DRDO in feasibility studies to address technological gaps in MSMEs.
- Speed of Implementation: The DPP streamlines processes, aiming to modernize procurement swiftly.
Conclusion:
The DPP 2016’s ‘Make’ procedure empowers MSMEs, boosts domestic production, and stimulates international competition. This modernizes and simplifies India’s defense procurement, positioning the sector for global prominence.
News Updated Date: 02nd May 2024