Category: Entrepreneurship

India expresses desire to expand the horizon of New Development Bank (NDB) for strengthening social infrastructure at BRICS Industry Ministers meet

Posted on by Business So Simple in Entrepreneurship, Public Affairs

Ministry of Commerce & Industry

India expresses desire to expand the horizon of New Development Bank (NDB) for strengthening social infrastructure at BRICS Industry Ministers meet


Shri Piyush Goyal chairs the “5th meeting of BRICS Industry Ministers”

Posted Date:- Aug 18, 2021

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Textiles, Shri Piyush Goyal today chaired the “ 5th meeting of BRICS Industry Ministers”  Meeting under the Chairship of India. The Industry Ministers of BRICS Countries (Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa) H.E. Mr. Xiao Yaqing   Minister of Industry & IT of the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Mr. Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Trade, Industry & Competition of the Republic of South Africa, H.E. Mr. Carlos Da Costa, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Economy, Government of Federative Republic of Brazil and H.E. Mr. Denis Manturov, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation and delegates attended the virtual meeting.

India chose the theme of BRICS@15: Intra BRICS Cooperation for Continuity, Consolidation and Consensus for its Chairship, this year.

In the 5th Meeting of BRICS Industry Ministers held on 18th August 2021, the Joint Declaration was adopted.

India’s efforts of channelizing technology towards good and smart governance thus increasing transparency and accountability, were highlighted. India has developed a vibrant and dynamic start-up ecosystem, leveraged existing platforms and digital technologies such as Aadhar and UPI payments for ensuring delivery of critical services to the last mile. Online systems like COWIN and digital vaccination certificates are being cited as success stories across the world today. 

Ministers recognized the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic particularly in the fields of trade and industry. They complimented all the COVID warriors, our doctors, nurses, paramedical staff and scientists, across all the BRICS countries, for their selfless and tireless efforts in saving our lives.

They appreciated the need for adopting the emerging new technologies in a swiftly changing world and recognized this as an important tool for modernization and transformation of industry, promotion of inclusive economic growth, thus helping BRICS national economies to meet the Sustainable Development Goals.

They agreed on the need to build human resources in line with the changing requirements accelerated by the new emerging technology to promote training and skills development of the related workforce and businesses through workshops, seminars, and exchange programs.

They reiterated their commitment to make efforts to foster open, fair, and non-discriminatory trade environment, ensure greater participation in global value chains, promote digital inclusion, assess the implications, and encourage the progressive, safe, equitable, and sustainable use of disruptive technologies for advancing growth.

They expressed their intention to collaborate with the New Development Bank (NDB). India expressed the desire to expand the horizon of NDB and resources be utilized for strengthening of social infrastructure besides promotion of Industrial sector.

The meeting concluded with the BRICS Industry Ministers reaffirming their commitment to work together as a group, complement strengths of each other, share best practices and learn from weaknesses, and move ahead in a positive and constructive manner to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

India records 572% growth in grant of Patents in last 7 years

Posted on by Business So Simple in Entrepreneurship, Intellectual property rights

India records 572% growth in grant of Patents in last 7 years


28,391 patents granted in 2020-21 as compared to 4,227 grants during 2013-14 .

Shri Piyush Goyal confers National Intellectual Property Awards 2020

Centre to impart training & awareness to 10 Lakh students on IPR matters in this Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav (15th Aug, 2021 to 15 Aug, 2022)

14.2 lakh trademark registrations done in 4 years (2016-2020) in comparison to 11 lakh during 75 years (1940-2015)

India”s ranking in Global Innovation Index jumps to 48th in 2020, (+33 ranks from 81st in 2015-16)

IP has the power & potential to change lives & create livelihoods for billions: Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal

Powered by Intellectual Property, India can be the Innovation Powerhouse of the world: Shri Goyal

We must aim to make India the “Design hub of World”: Shri Goyal

Intellectual property is the key for success of Start-up India, Make in India & Design in India – Shri Piyush Goyal

Ministry of Commerce & Industry Press Release Dated Aug 17, 2021

Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs & Food & Public Distribution and Textiles Shri Piyush Goyal today conferred the National Intellectual Property Awards 2020 to the winners at an event. Dr GiridharAramane, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade and other senior officials were also present at virtual event.

While addressing the award function, Shri Goyal congratulated all the winners & hoped that they would continue to do such exemplary work in future also. He said that these awards were truly inclusive with contributions from varied sectors i.e. from Academia to Start-ups.

The Minister said that today, technology & ideas are the twin engines of growth, IPR is the fuel that powers them and this award not only recognises the innovative ideas of individuals & institutions but also serves as an inspiration for others. He said there is need to bring an IP revolution for Inclusive Progress in the nation and strengthening IPR laws. He said it will boost job creation, quality, competitiveness & manufacturing.

The Minister said that powered by Intellectual Property, India can be the “Innovation Powerhouse” of the world. Shri Goyal said that Intellectual Property Rights actually translates into India’s progress in real-time and extend Intellectual Property Right to India’s Prosperity Right. He said, we must aim to make India the “Design hub of World”

Shri Goyal said that just like geographical boundaries guard our country’s interests, Intellectual Property is the guardian of our country’s prospects. Shri Goyal further added that Intellectual property is the cornerstone of nation’s progress & showcases ingenuity of our youth. It is the key for success of Start-up India, Make in India & Design in India. He said under Prime Minister’s guidance, India has taken giant strides in creating a robust IPR regime & an ecosystem to foster innovation.

Shri Goyal further said that IP has the power & potential to change lives & create livelihoods for billions. He said that today  we recognise IP as one of the most valuable assets in India’s ability to compete in global economy. He said, our IP Rights must ensure whoever invents in India is not only protected but guaranteed to prosper .A  strong IPR regime will empower the expansion & energize the industry in challenging times.

He said one major initiative in this direction has been – National IPR Policy for “Creative India, Innovative India”.

 He said other key initiatives are Fee Concessions like 10% rebate on online filing, 80% fee concession for Start-ups & Small Entities. The Minister said that IPR filing procedures are now more compact, time-bound, user-friendly & compatible for e-transactions.He said that comprehensive e-Filing facility, Electronic processing of Patents & Trademarks applications, are bringing transparency & ease of access for those IPR seekers.

Addressing the event , Shri Goyal said the key achievements include

-Granting of 28,391 patents  in 2020-21 as compared to 4,227 grants during 2013-14 (572% growth.

-Reduction in Time of patent examination from 72 months in Dec 2016 to 12-24 months in Dec 2020

-14.2 lakh trademark registrations in 4 years (2016-2020) in comparison to 11 lakh during 75 years (1940-2015).

Shri Goyal said we have improved India’s ranking in Global Innovation Index to 48th in 2020, (+33 ranks from 81st in 2015-16). The Minister said now, we must all work in a mission mode to achieve the ambitious target of being in the top 25 nations of Global Innovation Index.

In his concluding remarks, the Minister said that from Cars to Computers & from Sewing Machines to Spaceships, we must encourage all to design a better future for humanity. He said that we all need to contribute ideas in order to make our IP regime more proficient.

On this occasion, Shri Goyal made following announcements-

•           80% fee reduction filing for IPRs to all Recognized Educational Institution (Govt/Aided/Pvt) irrespective of whether such institute is in India or outside India.

•           Total fee (Filing + publication + Renewal fee) for an Institute is ~Rs. 4,24,500/- now, this will  be reduced to Rs. 84,900/ -, The fees among the top Patent Offices worldwide.

•           Office of CGPDTM (IP office) will impart training & awareness to 10 Lakh students in this Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav (15th Aug, 2021 to 15 Aug, 2022).

Shri Goyal appreciated efforts & contribution of all Officers in IP Office for being trusted guardians of “Brain of India”.  He urged all to aim higher to transform India into a magnet to attract best of talent, ideas & technology.

It may be noted, every year National Intellectual Property (IP) Awards are conferred by Office of Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDTM), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to recognize and reward the top achievers, comprising individuals, institutions, organisations, enterprises, police units and other legal entities, for IP creation, commercialization and enforcement, which has contributed towards strengthening IP eco-system in the country and encouraging creativity and innovation.

Centre Notifies RoDTEP Scheme Guidelines and Rates

Posted on by Business So Simple in Entrepreneurship

Centre Notifies RoDTEP Scheme Guidelines and Rates


Scheme to boost our exports & competitiveness

Sectors like Marine, Agriculture, Leather, Gems & Jewellery, Automobile, Plastics, Electrical / Electronics, Machinery get the benefits of Scheme.

Rates of RoDTEP to cover 8555 tariff lines

Ministry of Commerc & Industry Press Release dated Aug 17, 2021

Centre has today notified RoDTEP Scheme Guidelines and Rates (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products). The scheme for zero rating of exports will boost our exports & competitiveness in the global markets .The rates of RoDTEP will cover 8555 tariff lines.

It may be noted that Government is leaving no stone unturned to support domestic industry and make it more competitive in the international markets. Export centric industries are being reformed and introduced to better mechanisms so as to increase their competitiveness, boost exports, generate employment and contribute to the overall economy. This will go a long way in achieving our vision of building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) is one such reform, based on the globally accepted principle that taxes and duties should not be exported, and taxes and levies borne on the exported products should be either exempted or remitted to exporters.

Scheme’s objective is to refund, currently un-refunded:

–           Duties/ taxes/ levies, at the Central, State & local level, borne on the exported product, including prior stage cumulative indirect taxes on goods & services used in production of the exported product, and

– Such indirect Duties/ taxes/ levies in respect of distribution of exported products.

It may be noted that rebate under the Scheme shall not be available in respect of duties and taxes already exempted or remitted or credited.

RoDTEP is going to give a boost to Indian exports by providing a level playing field to domestic industry abroad.

RoDTEP support will be available to eligible exporters at a notified rate as a percentage of Freight On Board (FOB) value. Rebate on certain export products will also be subject to value cap per unit of the exported product.

Scheme is to be implemented by Customs through a simplified IT System. Rebate will be issued in the form of a transferable duty credit/ electronic scrip (e-scrip) which will be maintained in an electronic ledger by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC).

Identified export sectors and rates under RoDTEP cover 8555 tariff lines in addition to similar support being extended to apparel and made-ups exports under RoSCTL scheme of Ministry of Textiles.

Employment Oriented Sectors like Marine, Agriculture, Leather, Gems & Jewellery etc. are covered under the Scheme. Other sectors like Automobile, Plastics, Electrical / Electronics, Machinery etc. also get support. The entire valve chain of textiles also gets covered through RoDTEP & RoSCTL.

Click here to view the RoDTEP Notification

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Indian startup ecosystem has the potential & promise to make India the Innovation & Invention hub of the world

Posted on by Business So Simple in Entrepreneurship, Science & Technology, Startups

Indian startup ecosystem has the potential & promise to make India the Innovation & Invention hub of the world: Shri Piyush Goyal


In 75 weeks of “Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, NSAC should facilitate 75 startups to become unicorns by the 75th Independence Day: Shri Goyal

Tier II & Tier III cities to be the backbone of Start up revolution and catalyze employment generation with strengthen forward & backward linkages.- Shri Goyal

21 unicorns in last 6 months inspire all to Dream Big & Achieve Bigger – Shri Goyal

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal chairs a meeting of “National Startup Advisory Council

Government is committed to cut red tape, improve “Ease of Doing Business” , provide financial assistance through Startup seed fund, supporting incubators, enhancing skills- Shri Goyal

Ministry of Commerce & Industry Press Release dated 16 Aug 2021

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Textiles, Shri Piyush Goyal chaired the virtual meeting of  “National Startup Advisory Council here today. While addressing the meeting, the Minister said that implementation of ideas of Financing, Mentorship, Taxation etc. will enable us to strengthen our startup ecosystem further. He said our startup ecosystem is a reflection of our youth’s Energy, Enthusiasm and Agility and Startup India movement has brought a ‘change in mindset’ from ‘can do’ to ‘will do’. 

In his address, he said that our startup ecosystem has the potential & promise to make India the Innovation & Invention   hub of the world and National Startup Advisory Council on AC has been working tirelessly to pave the way  forward for budding Startup Entrepreneurs in India. Shri Goyal said that NSAC will nurture Startups to aim for higher Competitiveness & make India the Startup Capital.  He urged that in the 75 weeks of Azadi ke Amrit Mahotsav, NSAC should facilitate 75 startups to become unicorns by the 75th Independence Day. He further added that the Prime Minister’s mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’ finds resonance with our startups. He said our aim is to make ‘Startup India’ a symbol of National Participation & National Consciousness. 

In this age of COVID-19, when everyone is overcoming severe stress, he said that he was happy to see the resilience & ‘never say die’ spirit of our startup ecosystem. The Minister said the 21st century is the ‘Century of Startups’ & with our   Startups it is the ‘Century of India’. He said 21 unicorns in last 6 months inspire all to Dream Big &  Achieve Bigger. With nearly 60 unicorns, India has one of the largest startup stable in the entire world.  

The Minister urges to start a STARTUP revolution, he said with NEP 2020, schools will now sow the seeds of      startup ideas at a young age. He said youth are job creators of tomorrow and drivers of innovation & leaders of 4th Industrial Revolution. Shri Goyal said that he wanted to see new startups emerge across India especially in Tier II & Tier III cities. He said, this will catalyze employment generation & strengthen forward & backward linkages.

Shri Goyal asked DPIIT to now act as a ‘Facilitator’ with Open doors, Open Arms & Open Mind. He said that Government is committed to cut red tape, improve Ease of Doing Business  provide financial assistance through Startup seed  fund, supporting incubators, enhancing skills and this holistic approach has intended to resolve the issues relating to capital mobilization, support innovation with tinkering labs, & meet the capacity &  capability requirements of startups. 

He said today, our vision expands beyond the traditional models of growth, our aim is to create a New India i.e. an Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Startups are the key to building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat with Courage, Collaboration & Commitment and to achieve such an ambitious target we need a participative approach from all stakeholders. He said Industry must help create Startup Superstars by identifying innovators & investing in talent. 

 Our aim must be to make our startups grow beyond our   geographical boundaries & create global impact .

The meeting was attended by top stake holders, officials  and existing  start ups in the country. Some of them include Shri M.R. Kumar, Chairman, LIC; Shri R.S. Sharma, CEO, National Health Authority; Shri Rajan Anandan, Managing Director, Sequoia Capital; Shri Ritesh Agarwal, Founder, OYO Rooms; Shri Manoj Kohli, Country Head, Softbank India; Shri Abhiraj Bhal, Co-founder, UrbanCompany; Shri Kunal Bahl, Co-founder, Snapdeal; Shri Vineet Aggarwal, President, ASSOCHAM; Shri Sanjeev Bhikchandani, Co-founder, InfoEdge; Shri Mohandas Pai, Co-founder & Chairman, Aarin Capital; Shri Prashant Prakash, Partner, Accel Partners; Smt. Anjali Bansal, Founder, Avaana Capital; Shri Sharad Sharma, Founder, iSpirt; Smt. Debjani Ghosh, President, NASSCOM

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Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)

Posted on by Business So Simple in Entrepreneurship, Science & Technology, Startups

Shri Piyush Goyal chaired Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)


Move to democratise digital commerce & move it from platform-centric model to an open-network model

Success story of platform independent protocols like UPI to be replicated to provide alternatives to propriety e-commerce sites and create mechanisms to connect buyers and sellers

Merchants will be able to save their data under ONDC to build credit history and reach consumers

Go ahead for rapid development and deployment of ONDC

The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal today chaired a meeting for the review of the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) initiative of DPIIT. Shri Goyal deliberated with the members of the advisory council& experts on how the initiative will democratise digital commerce & move it from platform-centric model to an open-network model.The advisory council includes Shri R.S. Sharma, CEO, National Health Authority, Shri Nandan M. Nilekani, non-executive Chairman of Infosys, Shri Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, QCI and Capacity Building Commission, Ms Anjali Bansal, Founder & Chairperson, Avaana Capital, Shri Arvind Gupta, Co-founder & Head, Digital India Foundation, Shri DilipAsbe, MD & CEO, NPCI, Shri Suresh Sethi, MD & CEO, NSDL, Shri Praveen Khandelwal, Secretary-General, Confederation of All India Traders and Shri Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, Retailer Association of India.

While reviewing the progress, the Minister said that ONDC will work for everything and not just limited to products but also services. Shri Goyal suggested that some guidelines or basic infrastructure, size, ethics and principles should be there. Shri Goyal further added that security and data privacy and confidentiality must be ensured. He said that this willcreate new opportunities and remove monopolistic environments.

It may be noted, Open Network for Digital Commerce christened ONDC is globally first-of-its-kind initiative that aims to democratise Digital Commerce, moving it from a platform-centric model to an open-network. As UPI is to the digital payment domain, ONDC is to  e-commerce in India. ONDC will enable, buyers and sellers to be digitally visible and transact through an open network. no matter what platform/application they use. ONDC will empower merchants and consumers by breaking silos to form a single network to drive innovation and scale, transforming all businesses from retail goods, food to mobility

Advisory Council was constituted on July 5 and its first meeting was convened on July 16, 2021.The Advisory Council adopted its role to guide and mentor design, implementation and national rollout of ONDC in addition to the scope of the erstwhile Steering Committee. The Advisory Council discussed the key design elements national rollout. Its recommendations have been incorporated in the implementation plan developed.

ONDC shall take all measures to ensure confidentiality & privacy of data in the network

            – ONDC shall not mandate sharing of any transaction-level data by participants  with ONDC.

– ONDC will work with its participants to publish anonymised aggregate metrics on network performance without compromising on confidentiality and privacy

            – ONDC will be compliant with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and designed for compliance with the emerging Personal Data Protection Bill.

In addition to establishing ONDC to manage the Open Network the Government may consider establishing an Independent Regulatory Authority for eCommerce (such as SEBI for Capital Market).

ONDC shall initially give special attention help onboard small and medium players. ONDC to plan for a well developed Information, Education & Communication campaign to educate, encourage and to address any apprehensions of various network participants. ONDC should evolve over time as a self-sustaining entity generating income for its operations and surplus for continuous investment in technology, processes and network development. This is very workable option considering the significant benefits it will extend to the ecosystem players

Chaired a meeting of the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

Deliberated with the members of the board & experts on how the initiative will democratise digital commerce & move it from platform-centric model to an open-network model. pic.twitter.com/RQLQFaGUjm— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) August 13, 2021

Ministry of Commerce & Industry Press Release dated 13 Aug 2021

‘Synergy between the Government and Business for sustainable growth

Posted on by Business So Simple in Entrepreneurship

India@75 is a declaration for a new India with new dreams, new energy and new commitment: Shri Piyush Goyal


Appealed to the industry to engage with the Government in supporting efforts to skilling India


Union Commerce & Industry Minister addresses CII’s virtual special session on ‘Synergy between the Government and Business for sustainable  growth’Posted Date:- Aug 12, 2021

Union Minister of Commerce & industry Shri Piyush Goyal today virtually addressed the Confederation of Indian Industry’s Annual Summit’s special session on ‘Synergy between the Government and Business for sustainable  growth’. The Theme of this year Annual Meeting is ‘ India@75: Government and Business Working Together for Atmanirbhar Bharat’.

While delivering the keynote address, Shri Piyush Goyal said that 75 years ago we worked to get freedom, now we must work in mission mode to become Aatmanirbhar. We have a never-before opportunity to take the country to the sphere of fast-track growth, development and prosperity. At 75, it is about looking at how far we have come and the journey ahead. 

Shri Goyal said that Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav is a call to action for 130 crores Indians and 130 crore is not just a number, it is 130 crore possibilities, it is our USP or Unlimited Sources of Potential. He said, we are looking at Jan-Bhagidari and Udyog-Bhagidari for an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.Shri Goyal said India’s youth is a torchbearer of the future.

Shri Goyal mentioned that India at 75 is a Declaration for a new India with new dreams, new energy and new commitment. He said thatit will be beacon of hope for the world, guided by ancient wisdom and energised by its youth. Shri Goyal said under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India wants to mark 75th Independence Day as a watershed moment in its history. At 75 we must look ahead with a clear vision, blueprint and resolve for the next 25 years. He said in last 7 years, India under the guidance of Prime Minister has embarked to make structural changes with the mantra of “Reform,Perform & transform has been our guiding light and these changes have made the Indian business ecosystem one of the most competitive ecosystem.Shri Goyal informed that soon to be launched National Single Window System will address issue of “window within a window”.

Shri Goyal further added that India has attracted the attention of the world and everyone is looking up to us to take the mantle. He said PLI schemes will be taken up by the business leader to improve our capacity and capability and we are pursuing FTAs with like-minded nations who share our values of democracy, transparency and rule of law. He said our aim is to make Brand India a flag bearer of Quality, productivity, talent and innovation. He added the world is looking towards India for Investment, Innovation or establishment of any Industry and India at 75 is becoming a hub for IDEAS – Investment, Demand, Exports, Aspirations &Start-ups.

Union Minister said Covid-19 has caused disruptions in our way of doing things. Post Covid, India will emerge as the driving force on the global stage and the speed and results of vaccination drive are very promising. He said India has inoculated the largest number of people in the world. He called upon the industry to take a leading hand in the vaccination drive to strengthen the synergy between businesses and government.

Shri Goyal in his concluding remarks said that the services sector drives on the back of manufacturing sector. For the country size and scale of India, the manufacturing sector is a key player. He appealed to the industry to engage with the Government in supporting efforts to skilling India. The Minister also urged CII to take more responsibility and action to help increase synergy between business and Government.

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Ministry of Commerce & Industry Press Release dated 12 Aug 2021

200 Van Dhan Producer companies planned to be set up during 2020-21 to 2025-26 with priority in Aspirational Districts.

Posted on by Business So Simple in Company Law, Entrepreneurship

200 Van Dhan Producer companies planned to be set up during 2020-21 to 2025-26 with priority in Aspirational Districts.


Jawadhu Hills Tribal Farmer Producer Company is an exemplary success story of Van Dhan Producer company
Posted Date:- Aug 13, 2021

Key Highlights:

  • 200 Van Dhan Producer Companies   planned to be set up in 27 States during 2020-21 to 2025-26.
  • Jawadhu Hills Tribal Farmer Producer Company, a van dhan producer company, in less than 4 months, has sold processed products up to Rs 12 lakhs.

Keeping in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s call for “Atmanirbhar Bharat” aligned to the slogan of “Be Vocal for Local Buy Tribal”, towards realizing the goal of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”, TRIFED has embarked upon an umbrella programme “Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas

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200 Van Dhan producer companies are planned to be set up in 27 States during 2020-21 to 2025-26 with priority in Aspirational Districts under Van Dhan programme of TRIFED. It is worth mentioning that a Van Dhan Producer company existing in Jawadhu Hills in Tiruvannamalai district, Tamil Nadu since 2020 is a noteworthy example of how this initiative benefits the tribals and promotes tribal entrepreneurship.

Situated in the Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu, Jawadhu hills is an extension of the Eastern Ghats. The Malayali tribal people constitute 92.60% of the total population in this block and their mainstay is through the non-timber forest produce and a variety of trees grown on this patta land such as tamarind, jackfruit, coconut, lemon and plantain and gooseberry.

To help these tribals empower themselves and gain better opportunities and market access, the Jawadhu Hills Tribal Farmer Producer Company was formed in 2020. It falls under theState Balanced Growth Fund for Value Addition of Non-Timber forest Product and Agricultural Products of Jawadhu hills, Tiruvannamalai District (SPV). The Company has been formed under the Companies Act 2013(18 of 2013) and is limited by shares. It consists of members of farmers interest groups, producer groups and self-help groups that have been formed at community level. The entire team of directors and key managerial persons of the FPO are tribals.

In less than a year, four manufacturing units have already been set up for the processing and packaging of tamarind, minor millet, and honey and pepper. The units, which are being run by the tribals, have started production in November 2020. The daily production capacity is 1 tonne. Up until now, in less than 4 months, the producer company has sold processed products up to Rs 12 lakhs. The FPO has already been registered as a seller in the Tribes India marketplace and has been selling nine of its processed produce through the platform, thus gaining a wider market for its goods.

124 tons of minor millets have been produced in the year, with a total of 9800 households cultivating minor millets. Around 17770 farmers are involved in its cultivation. The producer company will benefit around 17770 millet producing farmers.22 tons per year honey is produced in Jawadhu hill with a total of 2760 members involved in producing honey as a part of 120 SHGs. Therefore, the Jawadhu Hills producer company is targeting to improve the lives and livelihood of 2760 honey producers.9500 households and 300 SHGs are involved in Tamarind Production & Selling Process. More than 90 tonnes of tamarind are being produced in these hills.

Besides the farmer producer company, which was formed only in 2020, the tribals of the block were already members of existing Van Dhan Kendras in Tiruvannamalai district – Jawadhu VDVK, Jamunamarathur VDVK and Koottathur VDVK. These continue to be operational under the FPO. Tribals have been earning their livelihoods through the addition of value and processing non-timber forest produces or Minor forest produces through these VDVKs.

The Jawadhu Hills producer company has been formed with an aimto improve the quality of life and social status of tribals involved. This is an example of how the Van Dhan tribal start-up has been successful in improving the livelihoods and incomes of the tribal people across the country.

 The Van Dhan tribal start-ups, a component of the same scheme, is a programme for value addition, branding & marketing of Minor Forest Produces by establishing Van Dhan Kendras to facilitate creation of sustainable livelihoods for the forest-based tribes. It has emerged as a source of employment generation for tribal gatherers and forest dwellers and the home-bound tribal artisans.

In less than two years, 37,904 Van Dhan Self Help Group (VDSHGs), subsumed into 2275 Van Dhan Vikas Kendra Clusters (VDVKCs) of 300 forest dwellers each, have been sanctioned by TRIFED as of date. As per TRIFED, a typical Van Dhan Self Help Group (VDSHG) includes 20 tribal members. 15 such VDSHG form 1 Van Dhan Vikas Kendra cluster. The Van Dhan Vikas Kendra Clusters provide the VDSHGeconomies of scale, livelihood and market-linkages, as well as entrepreneurship opportunities to nearly 6.67 lakh Tribal forest gatherers in 23 states and 2 UTs.

TRIFED is also expanding the Skills Development and Micro entrepreneurship programme, together with the Tribal Livelihoods program. Convergences with various Ministries and Departments such as Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Ministry of AYUSH have been initiated by TRIFED all with the aim of improving sustainable livelihoods and income opportunities for these tribals.

With Ministry of Agriculture & Family Welfare, TRIFED will work towards the formation of 14 Honey FPOs in 8 States such as Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

Ministry of Tribal Affairs Press Release dated 13 Aug 2021

Government e-Marketplace (GeM) organizes th edition of National Public Procurement Conclave

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Government e-Marketplace (GeM) organizes 5th edition of National Public Procurement Conclave


GeM has been instrumental in transforming the public procurement scenario in the country:Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Smt. Anupriya Patel

Digital Exhibition of various products and services by sellers available on GeM platform for 30 days from August 9 – September 9, 2021

Ministry of Commerce & Industry Press Release dated Aug 11, 2021

The 5th edition of the National Public Procurement Conclave (NPPC) was organized by Government e-Marketplace (GeM) in association with the Confederation of Indian Industry [CII] on August 9th&10th, 2021 on the theme “Technology enabled Government Procurement – Towards Efficiency, Transparency, and Inclusiveness”.

The conclave was inaugurated virtually by Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Smt. Anupriya Patel on August 9, 2021 in the presence of Shri BVR Subrahmanyam, Secretary Commerce and Chairman GeM. Delivering the inaugural address, the Minister said that GeM has been instrumental in transforming the public procurement scenario in the country. She emphasized upon the larger objective of GeM focusing on inclusivity. Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, a guest of honour at the event, echoed the vision of  Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi of “Local goes Global” and suggested that GeM should explore possibilities to support the concept of an Atmanirbhar Bharat and giving a fillip to the Make in India ecosystem in the country.

The conference featured an overview session on GeM which took participants through the platform’s key features and functionalities. The Conclave alsohad an eclectic range of panel discussions ranging from promotion of MSMEs in public procurement to how fintech can enable access to credit for sellers and service providers doing business with the Government. Some of the other highlights at NPPC 2021 included the virtual B2B and B2G meetings between Govt. buyers and sellers, training and technical sessions on GeM features and new developments, a virtual GeM stall to resolve queries on the spot and facilitate registration of sellers and buyers, special session for Services such as Hospitality, Travel and Accommodation bookings, on GeM and DIVE sessions where buyers and sellers made online presentations to the participants.

This year’s Conclave provided an excellent opportunity for Government buyers, sellers, industry, and academia to interact with each other, and served as an online platform for sellers to showcase their products and services through the CII’s HIVE Digital Platform. Digital Exhibition of various products and services by sellers that are available on the GeM platform will be showcased during the Conclave for 30 days from August 9- September 9, 2021.

As a fitting closure and to commemorate the undying support of GeM’s stakeholders, the top performing buyers and sellers were awarded for leading the procurement efforts through GeM in financial year 2020-21. These awards were presentedby Shri. P.K. Singh, CEO, GeM to the top 2 entities based on order value and order volume.

For Central Govt. Buyers, the winner was Ministry of Defence while the runner up in this category was Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. For State Govt. Buyers, Uttar Pradesh was adjudged the winner, while the runner up in this category was Gujarat. For CPSEs the winner was GAIL India Limited followed by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation. Ltd. On the seller’s front, the award was presented to TATA Motors Ltd. for best sales performance with Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. being the runner up in this category.

In his valedictory address, Shri. P.K. Singh, CEO, GeM congratulated the award winners and thanked them for partnering with GeM in this journey of transforming public procurement through extensive use of technology. He also resonated the vision of the Prime Minister towards creating GeM as a public procurement portal to promote transparency, efficiency and inclusivity.

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Every trader is a contributor in the development of the country

Posted on by Business So Simple in Entrepreneurship

Shri Piyush Goyal addresses traders’ fraternity on National traders’ day Says, every trader is a contributor in the development of the country

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and Textiles Shri Piyush Goyalhas lauded the contribution of traders in Indian economy. He said, traders are the backbone of the country’s economy and financial powers. Virtually addressingthe traders’ fraternity on the occasion of National traders’ day today, he said traders are the true ambassadors of Brand India. He asked the traders to push for the PM’s clarion call for “Vocal for Local” and become ambassadors of brand India.

Shri Goyal said that India is becoming a global platform for goods and services and asked traders to become Atmanirbhar on all fronts of commerce and trade. He also stressed that trade is not an exchange of goods but is an exchange of culture, goodwill and trust also. The key to it is Quality and productivity. The minister also stressed on ensuring sale of quality products to achieve the above goals.

The Minister assured full support to the trader community from Government and asked traders to bring violations in law to notice of the Government. He said government is committed to protect traders and small entrepreneurs. He said Government is working towards simplifying legal metrology and creating a single window online system to stop harassment of traders. Shri Piyush Goyal urgedtraders to boost Swarojgar, Swadeshi & Sugam Vyapar. 

Shri Goyal lauded the role of traders during Covid Pandemic. He said during the last 15-16 months of the Covid-19 pandemic, traders specially, in the remote area served people’s need by ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential goods in every nook and corner of the country. He urged the traders to adhere to all Covid 19 protocols in their day today life  and asked them to get both doses of COVID Vaccination.

Ministryof Commerce& Industry Press release dated 09 Aug 2021

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‘PM-DAKSH’ Portal and ‘PM-DAKSH’ Mobile App

Posted on by Business So Simple in Entrepreneurship

Dr. Virendra Kumar launches ‘PM-DAKSH’ Portal and ‘PM-DAKSH’ Mobile App


Through ‘PM-DAKSH’ Portal, all information related to skill development are available at one place for Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes and Safai Karamcharis

Skill development training has been imparted to 2,73,152 persons of target groups in the last five years

During the year 2021-22, a target has been set to provide skill development training to approximately 50,000 persons of the target groups

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar launched ‘PM-DAKSH’ Portal and ‘PM-DAKSH’ Mobile App, developed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with NeGD, to make the skill development schemes accessible to the target groups. Through these portal and app the youth of the target groups will now be able to avail the benefits of skill development training programmes more easily.

The Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana is being implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment from the year 2020-21.  Under this Yojana, eligible target group are being provided skill development training programmes on (i) Up-skilling/Re-skilling (ii) Short Term Training Programme (iii) Long Term Training Programme and (iv) Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP). These training programs are being implemented through Government Training Institutes, Sector Skill Councils constituted by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and other credible institutions.

Now, any person can get all the information related to skill development training at one place by visiting the ‘PM-DAKSH’ Portal. Also, with just one click, one can get information about skill development trainings happening near him/her and he/she can easily register himself/herself for skill training. PM- DAKSH Portal is available athttp://pmdaksh.dosje.gov.inwhile ‘PM-DAKSH’ Mobile App is available in Google play store.

“Today, I am feeling proud to launch this portaland Mobile App for the public use. Keeping in view the usefulness and practicality of any suggestions received related to the implementation of this portal, this Ministry will make necessary improvements so that this portal can become more useful and beneficial for the target groups enabling them to be skilled and become self-reliant by availing opportunities related to self-employment or wage-employment,” Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar said.

Some of the features of this portal are as follows:

  • Availability of all information related to skill development at one place for Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes and Safai Karamcharis.
  • Facility to register for the training institute and program of their interest.
  • Facility to upload desired documents related to personal information.
  • Facility to register the attendance of the trainees through face and eye scanning during the training period.
  • Monitoring facility through photo and video clip during training etc.

Under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, three Apex Corporations – National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation, National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation and National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation- are functioning. These Corporations are providing loans at concessional interest rates to the target groups of backward classes, scheduled castes and Safai Karamcharis for self-employment. Besides, they are also providing free training for skill development of the target groups. 

These Corporations are constantly striving to make the target groups financially and socially self-reliant, both through loans and skill development training. As per the information available, skill development training has been imparted to 2,73,152 persons of target groups in the last five years by these three Apex Corporations, enabling them to support themselves and their families through self-employment and wage-employment. During the year 2021-22, a target has been set to provide skill development training to approximately 50,000 persons of the target groups through the above three Apex Corporations.

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Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Press Release dated 07th Aug 2021

MG/IA