Srinagar, February 08: The two-day MSME Design Awareness Program, organised by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, concluded successfully in the Jammu–Katra cluster.

The programme was held in collaboration with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Katra, and Model Institute of Engineering and Technology (MIET), Jammu. Sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, the initiative aimed to sensitise MSME stakeholders in the Jammu and Katra regions.
Nearly 120 participants, including MSME unit holders, young entrepreneurs, startups, and students, attended the programme. The sessions provided in-depth insights into the MSME Design Scheme, available funding avenues, design-led innovation, and strategies for business development and market expansion.
Prof. Binodh Kumar Kanaujia, Director, NIT Srinagar, was the Chief Patron of the programme. Prof. Mohammad Hanief, Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, served as Chairperson, while Prof. Nazir Ahmed Sheikh was Co-Chairperson and Dr. Sheikh Shahid Saleem acted as Convenor. Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran was the Nodal Officer for the MSME Design Scheme.
In her message, Incharge Director Prof. Roohie Naaz highlighted the vital role of MSMEs in the national economy.
“Under the national MSME scheme, such programmes underline the fact that MSMEs contribute nearly 30 per cent to India’s GDP, driving employment generation and exports. In Jammu’s unique industrial landscape, design innovation is crucial for scaling MSMEs and transforming local ideas into globally competitive products,” she said.
Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, emphasised the strategic importance of resilient and sustainable design solutions in the region.
“Given Jammu’s border proximity, MSMEs must focus on robust and sustainable technologies. With the right support, MSMEs can contribute to an annual GDP growth of 8–10 per cent. The growing participation of women entrepreneurs reflects the positive impact of such awareness programmes,” he said.
Head Department of Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Mohammad Hanief, said the institute’s technical expertise could significantly enhance local industries.
“Our mechanical engineering capabilities can help modernise traditional sectors such as willow crafts and herbal processing, adding substantial value to the regional economy. While MSMEs in Jammu excel in handicrafts, tourism products, and agro-processing, challenges remain in technology adoption and market access,” he said.
Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran presented an overview of the MSME Design Scheme, with a focus on technology-driven entrepreneurship. He announced that two similar programmes would be organised in Kashmir and one in Ladakh during February–March.
Dr. Dinesh also informed that a one-day MSME National Workshop is scheduled to be held at NIT Srinagar on February 17, 2026. This workshop will serve as a platform to connect MSMEs, startups, and entrepreneurs across the Valley, he added.