To enhance technical and skill development for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the Ministry of MSME has launched nine new Technology Centres, adding to the existing 18. An allocation of Rs 200 million for their establishment and operation is earmarked for 2025–26. In 2024–25, these centres trained over 328,000 participants, including MSME entrepreneurs and employees. They offered specialized programs in advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and the Internet of Things, ensuring skill programs align with industry needs. This information was shared by Minister of State Sushri Shobha Karandlaje in the Lok Sabha.
Nation’s Economic Structure,
The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises has taken a significant step forward by expanding its network of Technology Centres and advanced skill development facilities across the country. This initiative, aligned with national priorities such as Make in India and (India) Digital India, aims to strengthen the backbone of India’s industrial ecosystem. MSMEs form a vital part of the nation’s economic structure, and with the rapid technological transformation happening globally, the need to upgrade MSME capabilities has become essential. The expansion of Tech Centres is expected to create a powerful ecosystem where innovation, manufacturing excellence.
Modern tools, and skilled manpower come together to support India’s industrial growth The newly expanded Tech Centres are designed to meet the needs of modern industries that increasingly depend on automation, robotics, 3D manufacturing, AI-driven processes, CNC machinery, and digital engineering technologies. These Centres act as both training hubs and production support facilities, enabling small industries that often cannot afford high-end equipment to access the latest tools at subsidized rates. As India advances toward becoming a global manufacturing hub, such investments in technology infrastructure become crucial. Businesses often.
Digital Processes Youth, Engineering
struggle due to limited access to advanced hardware and testing laboratories. Through this initiative, MSMEs will no longer face barriers in prototyping, design verification, product testing, or digital transformation Skill development is a major focus of this expansion, as industry needs a workforce capable of operating modern equipment and understanding advanced digital processes Youth, engineering students, technicians, and budding entrepreneurs will have opportunities to train in applied technologies such as IoT integration, CAD/CAM design, manufacturing automation, product design, and industrial maintenance. These training programs are not just theoretical.
They involve real-world industrial machines, simulation tools, and hands-on implementation. By linking skill development with technology infrastructure, the MSME Ministry ensures that learning leads directly to employment opportunities, entrepreneurship potential, and industry-based innovation One of the major advantages of MSME Technology Centres is their ability to support startups and entrepreneurs working on innovative prototypes. Many early-stage founders struggle with the cost of machinery required to build proof-of-concept models. Access to equipment such as industrial 3D printers, scanners, milling machines.
Regional Development, Ensuring
Metal fabrication tools, and testing equipment can transform the startup landscape. This initiative supports India’s innovation-focused future and directly empowers the rapidly growing startup ecosystem These Centres also contribute to regional development, ensuring that technology and high-quality training reach remote and semi-urban areas. Many new facilities are built in regions previously lacking access to modern manufacturing tools. This not only creates skilled employment at the local level but also prevents migration by generating opportunities within the community. The inclusion of rural youth and small entrepreneurs in the mainstream industrial.
Ecosystem strengthens the overall economic foundation of the country As industries evolve, MSMEs require constant support to integrate new technologies. Whether it is automation for reducing production costs, robotics for improving precision, or digital tools for enhancing product design, the expansion of these Tech Centres ensures MSMEs stay competitive in both domestic and (India) global markets. The facilities provide mentoring, consultancy, machine usage support, product testing, and quality assurance services. This reduces dependency on external private labs, lowers operational costs, and increases speed to market.
Alignment With International Benchmarks
The announcement of these expanded facilities marks a major milestone in India’s journey toward a sustainable industrial future. MSMEs will not only benefit from upgraded infrastructure but also gain exposure to global manufacturing standards. This alignment with international benchmarks allows Indian products to compete more effectively in export markets. The combination of skill development, technology access, consultancy support, innovation labs, and digital manufacturing infrastructure forms a robust ecosystem that will drive the next phase of MSME evolution in India.
Overall, the expansion of the MSME Ministry’s Technology Centres and advanced skill training facilities is a transformative initiative that blends innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. It empowers industries, unlocks youth potential, and strengthens national competitiveness. As India prepares for new industrial revolutions powered by digital technologies, these Centres will remain key drivers of growth, progress, and industrial excellence.
Q1. What is the MSME Ministry’s Technology Centre expansion program?
It is a national initiative to upgrade and build new Tech Centres offering training, tools, testing, and innovation support.
Q2. Who benefits from the expanded Tech Centres?
MSMEs, startups, entrepreneurs, engineers, and students seeking advanced technical skills.
Q3. What kind of training is provided?
Training includes AI, robotics, CNC, 3D printing, IoT, automation, and digital manufacturing.
Q4. Are the services affordable for small industries?
Yes, Tech Centres are subsidized to support small and micro enterprises.
Q5. How can businesses access these facilities?
They can apply through official MSME portals or directly visit local Tech Centres.
