In a dialogue inspired by the timeless Arjuna–Krishna framework, this piece explains the Union Budget 2026's comprehensive support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The government unveils a three-pronged strategy focused on equity infusion, liquidity enhancement, and professional guidance to transform MSMEs into growth "Champions." Key initiatives include the launch of a Rs 10,000 crore SME Growth Fund, additional capital for the Self-Reliant India Fund, expansion of the TReDS platform to ease working capital constraints, and structured compliance support through trained "Corporate Mitras." Together, these measures aim to strengthen MSME resilience, improve access to finance, and enable sustainable growth across manufacturing and services sectors.
Arjuna (Fictional Character): Krishna, in the Union Budget 2026, the government has announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening MSMEs. How will these provisions help in their growth and success?
Krishna (Fictional Character): Arjuna, the government has recognized MSMEs as the true engines of growth. To support them, a three-pronged approach has been outlined that includes equity support, liquidity assistance, and professional guidance.
Arjuna (Fictional Character): Krishna. Can you elaborate on the equity support provided for MSMEs?
Krishna (Fictional Character): Certainly, the government has introduced a dedicated Rs 10,000 crore SME Growth Fund. This fund aims to identify promising MSMEs and help them scale up by providing equity support. It will target enterprises based on select criteria, ensuring that they grow into "Champions".
Arjuna (Fictional Character): So, this SME Growth Fund is like a lifeline for manufacturing and service industry SMEs that want to expand. What about the microenterprises that are often struggling with access to capital?
Krishna (Fictional Character): To ensure that micro enterprises continue to receive the necessary support the Self-Reliant India Fund, which was set up in 2021, will be topped up by Rs 2,000 crore. This help maintaining their access to risk capital.
Arjuna (Fictional Character): That's great! But liquidity is often a major challenge for MSMEs, especially when it comes to working capital. How is the government addressing this?
Krishna (Fictional Character): You're right, Arjuna. Liquidity is a critical issue for MSMEs. To tackle this, the government is focusing on expanding the Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS). The government has proposed four measures to leverage its full potential:
1. Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) will now have to use TReDS for all purchases from MSMEs. This will set a benchmark for private corporations to follow.
2. A credit guarantee mechanism will be introduced through CGTMSE for invoice discounting, making it easier for MSMEs to access funds.
3. Connecting the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) with TReDS, financiers will be able to access information about government purchases from MSMEs, making financing quicker and cheaper.
4. TReDS receivables will be considered as asset-backed securities, creating a secondary market and boosting liquidity.
Arjuna (Fictional Character): These are powerful steps, Krishna! But MSMEs also need support to navigate complex compliance requirements. How will they be helped in this regard?
Krishna (Fictional Character): The government proposed to work with professional institutions like ICAI, ICSI, and ICMAI to design short-term, modular courses for MSMEs. These courses will train 'Corporate Mitras', especially in Tier-II and Tier-III towns. These para-professionals will assist MSMEs in meeting their compliance requirements at affordable costs, ensuring that they stay on the right side of the law without incurring heavy expenses.
Arjuna (Fictional Character): So, Krishna, the government is not only focusing on financial assistance but also on building the necessary infrastructure for MSMEs to thrive in a complex business environment.
Krishna (Fictional Character): Exactly, Arjuna. The measures proposed in the Union Budget 2026 are aimed at making MSMEs more resilient, competitive, and sustainable. With equity support, liquidity enhancements, and professional guidance, the government is setting the stage for MSMEs to become "Champions." These steps will help unlock new growth opportunities and ensure that MSMEs contribute significantly to India's economic development.
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