The Significance of MSME in India
India, a densely populated country, is home to a significant portion of the population with moderate financial capabilities. To maintain a healthy state of the economy, the Government of India promotes the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under the legal framework of the MSMED Act 2006. This industrial sector serves as a cornerstone, providing nourishment for the country's economic health.
Note: India’s MSME sector plays a crucial role, covering 45% of Total Industrial Employment, 50% of Total Exports, and comprising 95% of all Industrial Units, manufacturing over 6000 types of products (as per msme.gov.in).
Based on their size, MSMEs are classified into three categories:
- Micro Enterprise: Requires investment of less than INR 25 lakh for the manufacturing sector and less than INR 10 lakh for the service sector.
- Small Enterprise: Requires investment of less than INR 5 crore in the manufacturing sector and INR 2 crore in the service sector.
- Medium Enterprise: Requires investment of less than INR 10 crore in the manufacturing sector and INR 5 crore in the service sector.
The MSME sector in India encompasses various types of businesses, including Proprietorships, Hindu Undivided Family, Partnership Firms, One Person Companies, Limited Liability Partnerships, Private Limited Companies, Limited Companies, Producer Companies, Associations of Persons, Co-Operative Societies, and other undertakings.
While MSME Registration is not mandatory in India, units in this industry should consider getting legally registered to avail a range of benefits.