Government Sets Up 9 New Technology Centres to Boost MSME Innovation and Skill Development
Image: IANS
The government on Friday announced the establishment of nine new Technology Centres under the Technology Centre Systems Programme (TCSP), expanding its nationwide network aimed at enhancing technical capabilities and skill development for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Minister of State for MSME Shobha Karandlaje informed the Lok Sabha that ₹200 crore has been allocated for establishing and operating these centres during the financial year 2025–26. The move is expected to significantly strengthen India's MSME ecosystem, which contributes nearly 30% to the country’s GDP and remains one of the largest employment-generating sectors.
The newly established centres join 18 existing Technology Centres, which collectively trained more than 3.28 lakh MSME entrepreneurs, employees, and trainees during 2024–25. These centres have played a pivotal role in providing specialised training and access to advanced technology, especially in emerging fields.
Karandlaje highlighted that the Technology Centres have integrated modules on artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT) into their long-term and short-term training programmes. The inclusion of these courses aims to ensure that India’s MSME workforce is future-ready and equipped to compete in a rapidly advancing global manufacturing landscape.
Beyond training, the centres also provide access to sophisticated manufacturing technologies and equipment that small businesses would otherwise find financially challenging to acquire. These facilities support industries by strengthening their technical expertise, improving production capabilities, and enhancing competitiveness across sectors.
The TCSP has been designed to foster a comprehensive innovation ecosystem through modern physical infrastructure, advanced laboratories, and strong industry partnerships. A key component of the programme is the engagement of global Manufacturing Technology Partners (MTPs), who bring world-class knowledge and best practices to the sector-specific Technology Centres. Their involvement is expected to boost innovation and offer MSMEs guidance in adopting cutting-edge tools.
Additionally, the government is developing a centralised Technology Centre ERP platform to streamline operations, enhance digital access, and ensure transparency in services provided to MSMEs. The digital portal will serve as a unified interface for training, advisory support, equipment access, and business consultations.
The government emphasised that the Technology Centres will continue to serve a diverse range of trainees—from school dropouts to graduate engineers—helping bridge the skill gap and expand employment opportunities across India.
Our Final Thoughts
The expansion of Technology Centres marks a decisive step toward empowering India’s MSMEs with the tools and skills needed to thrive in a technology-driven economy. By integrating AI, robotics and IoT into mainstream training and offering world-class manufacturing support, the government is preparing the sector for global competitiveness. As MSMEs continue to anchor India’s growth story, such initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping a resilient, skilled and innovation-ready workforce.