Anushruti Singh
In a significant development, Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has officially taken charge of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). Manjhi, who served as the Chief Minister of Bihar between 2014 and 2015, brings a wealth of political experience to his new role.
Joining him is Shobha Karandlaje, who assumed the position of Minister of State in the Ministry of MSME. Karandlaje has an extensive background in government, having previously served as the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and the Minister of State for Food Processing Industries.
Both ministers were warmly welcomed by the Secretary (MSME) and senior officers of the Ministry. Addressing the media shortly after taking charge, Union Minister Manjhi expressed his gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister for including him in the vision for 2047 and making him a part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative, with a special focus on MSMEs.
Manjhi takes over from Narayan Rane, who had been leading the MSME ministry since July 2021 following a significant Cabinet reshuffle during Prime Minister Modi’s second term. Prior to Rane, the portfolio was held by Nitin Gadkari.
With his robust background in state politics, Manjhi is poised to address the challenges and needs of MSMEs, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s push for promoting smaller enterprises. His approach and strategies in this critical sector will be closely watched.
Minister of State Karandlaje emphasized the goal of making MSMEs self-reliant and increasing their contribution to the nation’s GDP. She stated that concerted efforts would be made to empower MSMEs and enhance their economic impact.
Both ministers have urged the Ministry officials to diligently work towards the empowerment and growth of MSMEs, leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to boost this vital sector of the economy.
