Srinagar/Leh: The Department of Mechanical Engineering at National Institute of Technology Srinagar organised an MSME Design Awareness Programme at the campus of National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology, Leh, aimed at strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship in the Ladakh region.
The programme was sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and witnessed participation from nearly 70 stakeholders, including MSME entrepreneurs, startup founders, students, and industry representatives from Leh and adjoining areas.
Focus on MSME Design Scheme and Funding Support
The sessions focused on the MSME Design Scheme, providing detailed insights into:
- Funding support mechanisms
- Eligibility criteria
- Application procedures
- Implementation processes
Experts highlighted how design-led innovation can enhance product value, improve branding, and boost market competitiveness—particularly for enterprises operating in remote and high-altitude regions like Ladakh.
Key Sectors Identified for Growth in Ladakh
The programme spotlighted several priority sectors with strong growth potential in the region, including:
- Pashmina and wool-based products
- Eco-tourism
- Organic farming
- Solar energy applications
- Apricot processing
Speakers advocated structured design interventions and technical assistance to modernize traditional industries and expand their market reach at national and international levels.
Emphasis on Region-Specific Innovation
Director of NIT Srinagar, Binodh Kumar Kanaujia, underscored the need for region-specific design solutions to strengthen local enterprises and promote self-reliance. He noted that innovation-driven MSMEs could play a significant role in accelerating Ladakh’s economic development.
Registrar Atikur Rehman stressed enhanced collaboration between academia and industry to drive innovation in Ladakh’s priority sectors. He highlighted the importance of:
- Structured mentoring
- Prototype development support
- Capacity-building initiatives
to help entrepreneurs convert ideas into commercially viable products.
Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department, Hanief, said systematic product development strategies and technical inputs could improve durability, quality standards, and competitiveness of local products.
Financial Assistance and Sustainable Practices
Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Nodal Officer for the MSME Design Scheme, provided comprehensive guidance on financial assistance and encouraged entrepreneurs to adopt sustainable, technology-driven methods to convert local resources into high-value products.
The programme concluded with an interactive session addressing challenges such as market access, logistics, and scaling up production. Organisers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting MSME development initiatives in Ladakh through innovation, technical expertise, and structured policy support.
With increasing focus on design innovation and institutional collaboration, the initiative is expected to give a significant push to MSME growth and entrepreneurship in Ladakh.
