In Ludhiana, MSME body calls for urgent tooling reforms to curb imports, boost local innovation
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Ludhiana: A delegation from the Chamber of Industrial & Commercial Undertakings (CICU) has urged the Indian government to modernise ageing industrial infrastructure and simplify complex support schemes that, they say, are stifling growth in the country's vital micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sector.
Led by CICU president Upkar Singh Ahuja, the delegation met with S.C.L. Dass, Secretary of the Ministry of MSME, at the Central Tool Room (CTR) in Ludhiana to push for urgent reforms. The discussions focused on revamping the CTR—once a symbol of industrial modernity in the 1980s—now struggling to meet the evolving needs of high-end manufacturing.
"When CTR was established, it uplifted Ludhiana's industrial ecosystem by supplying skilled labour and modern tooling solutions," Ahuja said.
"Today, it lacks the advanced machinery and material capabilities needed for new-generation industries."
Citing the example of reflectors—critical components for the automotive and lighting industries—Ahuja noted that despite rising domestic demand, India continues to import around ₹2,000 crore worth annually. "We must invest in institutions like CTR to build indigenous capacity," he said.
The CICU also flagged the overly bureaucratic nature of MSME support schemes.
Many smaller enterprises, they said, lack the manpower or expertise to navigate them, effectively locking them out of essential government support.
Ahuja urged the ministry to streamline these schemes, making them more practical and accessible for micro and small businesses that form the backbone of regional economies like Ludhiana.
Secretary Dass acknowledged the concerns and assured the delegation of the ministry's commitment to strengthening the MSME sector. "Ludhiana's role in India's industrial growth is undeniable," Dass said, as quoted by Ahuja. "The government remains focused on modernising institutions such as the Central Tool Room and supporting structural reforms."
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