February 11, 2026
Dola Sen’s Special Mention on the need to boost MSME by adopting models of successful states
Sir, the national MSME (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) ecosystem is under threat. Between 2020 and 2025, over 1,20,000 MSMEs were deregistered. Alarmingly, one out of every four MSMEs that shut down was women-owned. Additionally, total public procurement from MSMEs has fallen by nearly 40 per cent since last year. This crisis drives away jobs, devastates local economies and lessen the possibility of inclusive growth. Against such statistics, West Bengal stands out as the pinnacle of how citizen-centric interventions can strengthen MSMEs. With over 28 lakh women-led MSMEs, the State ranks second nationally and accounts for 10 per cent of all women-led MSMEs in India. West Bengal also records the highest share of women workers in the unincorporated sector at 12.7 per cent, as per ASUSE 2023-24, and contributes 5.3 per cent of MSMEs registered under UDYAM and UAP since 2020. The State has facilitated over Rs.9.35 thousand crore in bank credit for MSMEs. Through the Anandadhara initiative, 12 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have been formed, with credit linkages amounting to Rs.1.48 lakh crore. The Bhabishyat Credit Card Scheme has supported over 48,000 entrepreneurs with Rs.12,000 crore in approved loans, while Utkarsh Bangla provided skill training to over 40 lakh youth. Protecting our MSMEs is impossible without learning from and replicating successful State-led models, such as that of West Bengal, led by hon. Mamata Banerjee Government. Scaling this approach nationally is essential to revive this irreplaceable sector and ensure equity for all. I urge the Union Government to look into it. Thank you, Sir.
