In a significant push to bolster the local industrial ecosystem, the executive director of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) in Trichy has called for a concerted effort to enhance the capabilities of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The move comes as the central public sector undertaking witnesses a substantial increase in its order book, particularly for thermal power projects.
Focus on Workforce and Technology Upgradation
S Prabhakar, the Executive Director of the BHEL Trichy complex, addressed this imperative during a conference organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Trichy on Friday. The event aimed to guide MSMEs from Trichy, Pudukottai, and Thanjavur regions. Prabhakar stated that BHEL is committed to supporting the upskilling of workers in ancillary MSME units to meet the rising demand for outsourced components.
He stressed that while order books are swelling, MSMEs must look beyond BHEL and strengthen their workforce capabilities to serve a broader industrial base. Prabhakar also highlighted the crucial role of local industry clusters. He said these forums should not only aid in skill development but also assist entrepreneurs in securing capital for upgrading their machinery.
Addressing Key Challenges: Raw Materials and Diversification
A primary hurdle discussed was the procurement of raw materials. Prabhakar pointed out that ancillary units often struggle with sourcing materials like steel due to cost disparities. He urged clusters and forums like CII to actively pitch in and help MSMEs navigate these procurement challenges effectively.
The conference saw participation from major industry players, including representatives from L&T Construction and the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, who shared potential opportunities for local MSMEs. Discussions also covered the ease of doing business, various government schemes, and the persistent challenges in obtaining funding and bank support.
Collaboration and Growth as the Way Forward
Ajay Jayaraj, Chairman of CII Trichy, encapsulated the summit's essence with the acronym GROW: Get connected, Reimagine business, Open doors for contacts, and Win together through collaborations. This was highlighted as the key takeaway for MSMEs seeking to thrive in the current landscape.
Furthermore, to ensure long-term resilience, MSMEs were advised to diversify their presence. A specific focus on exploring opportunities in sectors like textiles and general manufacturing, beyond their core engineering work, was recommended. This strategic diversification is seen as vital for mitigating risks and tapping into new growth avenues, including export opportunities unveiled during the digital transformation-focused conference.
