Jaipur:The importance of state-level policies and initiatives in accelerating the growth of the MSME sector was discussed during the third session of the Rajasthan DigiFest TiE Global Summit 2026, held at JECC, Sitapura, on the second day of the summit on Monday.
The fireside chat, titled “MSMEs as Growth Engines: The State’s Role”, focused on how states can create a supportive ecosystem for small and medium enterprises. The session featured T. Shivshankar Rao, Chairman, MSME Development Corporation, Andhra Pradesh, and Dr. P. Albalagan, Principal Secretary (Industries), Government of Maharashtra, in conversation with Murali Bukkapatnam, Chairman, TiE Global Board of Trustees.
Speaking during the session, Dr. Albalagan emphasised that the growth of the MSME sector in any state depends largely on the creation of a conducive business environment. He noted that supportive government policies, robust industrial infrastructure, and proactive administrative support play a critical role in enabling MSMEs to scale and sustain growth.
T. Shivshankar Rao highlighted the need for early-stage support for small enterprises, stating that micro and small units require encouragement during their initial phases, which can be effectively provided through supportive policy frameworks. He also pointed out that the reduction in GST rates by the Government of India has strengthened the MSME sector and contributed to a more resilient industrial structure.
Concluding the session, Murali Bukkapatnam remarked that the expansion of the MSME sector not only drives economic prosperity but also creates significant employment opportunities. He added that India possesses strong entrepreneurial potential across all states, which can be harnessed through the right mix of policy support and ecosystem development.