Jayant Chaudhary, the Hon’ble Union Minister of State (I/C) for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, visited the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) today, engaging with ex-servicemen and aspiring entrepreneurs undergoing training. The Minister commended the transformative impact of the Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) and the institution’s role in promoting skill development across diverse sectors.During his visit, Shri Chaudhary toured an exhibition showcasing products crafted by jail inmates and successful entrepreneurs who completed EDP training.
These exhibits highlighted the positive outcomes of skill development programs, particularly those held at Lucknow and Varanasi jails, reinforcing NIESBUD’s commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship.The Minister interacted with over 3000 ex-servicemen enrolled in the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR) sponsored EDP at NIESBUD. This initiative aims to equip retiring Armed Forces personnel with entrepreneurial skills, facilitating their transition to civilian life through self-employment or wage employment. Shri Chaudhary praised their resilience and dedication, emphasizing their continued contribution to society.Additionally, Shri Chaudhary met Master Trainers from Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Haryana, undergoing capacity-building training under the World Bank-funded SANKALP Scheme. He acknowledged their crucial role in mentoring and supporting new entrepreneurs.Shri Chaudhary also reviewed the capacity-building program for Fair Price Shop (FPS) owners, developed in collaboration with the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD).
This program imparts essential entrepreneurial skills, including credit sourcing, product marketing, and digital marketing.In a separate event, Shri Chaudhary visited the Livelihood Business Incubation center to review the Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programmes in Fashion Designing and Beauty Therapy for underprivileged youth under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0. He also interacted with participants of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), encouraging them to embrace entrepreneurship as a viable career option.Meanwhile, in Kolkata, the local market has shown a surge in interest in entrepreneurship programs, mirroring the national trend. Small businesses and startups are increasingly seeking support from NIESBUD for training and mentorship, reflecting the growing entrepreneurial spirit in the region. Local entrepreneurs are particularly keen on digital marketing and global market trends, recognizing the importance of these skills in today’s competitive landscape.Shri Chaudhary was accompanied by prominent officials, including Ms. Hena Usman, Joint Secretary, MSDE, and Dr. Poonam Sinha, Director, NIESBUD. The visit underscored NIESBUD’s dedication to empowering individuals through skill development, contributing to a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in India.
