Context:
A new report by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), titled “Understanding the Indian MSME Sector: Progress and Challenges”, reveals that access to timely credit and shortage of skilled manpower are among the most pressing challenges faced by MSMEs. The study is based on a survey of 2,000 MSMEs across 19 sectors.
Key Highlights:
Credit Access: A Persistent Bottleneck
- Despite multiple government schemes, MSMEs still face a 24% credit gap, equivalent to about ₹30 lakh crore.
- Micro enterprises are most dependent on informal borrowing (12%), compared to 3% for small enterprises and 2% for the overall MSME sector.
- The services sector faces a higher credit gap (27%).
- Women-led MSMEs experience the most acute shortfall, with a 35% credit gap.
Digital Finance Adoption
- 90% of MSMEs accept digital payments, showing strong digital integration for transactions.
- 18% of MSMEs have adopted digital lending platforms.
- The report highlights potential for wider digital credit access through tools like UPI, especially when combined with financial literacy support.
Workforce Challenges
- 25% of MSMEs cite shortage of skilled manpower as a major operational hurdle.
- The skills gap is particularly problematic in technologically driven sectors and labor-intensive manufacturing.
Policy Recommendations
- Targeted financial inclusion policies are needed for services and women-led enterprises.
- Focus on scaling digital lending ecosystems integrated with UPI and public credit registries.
- Investment in skilling programs, especially for micro enterprises and underrepresented regions, to bridge the manpower deficit.
