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The National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of MSME aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and enhancing the participation of Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) entrepreneurs in India's economic growth process. The scheme is playing a significant role in fostering inclusive development, self-reliance, and equitable access to business opportunities.

About the Scheme

Launched in October 2016, the scheme seeks to build the entrepreneurial capacity of SC/ST communities and facilitate their integration into the mainstream MSME ecosystem.

The scheme is implemented by the National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC) under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.

Objectives

The scheme aims to:

• Promote an entrepreneurial culture among SC/ST communities.
• Enhance the competitiveness and capacity of SC/ST-owned MSMEs.
• Facilitate greater participation of SC/ST enterprises in public procurement.
• Improve access to credit, markets, technology, and skill development.

Key Support Provided

Under NSSH, SC/ST entrepreneurs receive support for:

• Purchase of plant and machinery.
• Capacity building and entrepreneurship training.
• Market linkages and vendor development.
• Participation in domestic and international exhibitions.
• Credit facilitation and financial assistance.
• Udyam Registration support.
• Onboarding on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform.

Major Functions

A key objective of the scheme is to facilitate SC/ST-owned enterprises in securing a share of the 4% procurement target earmarked for them in purchases made by Central Ministries, State Governments, CPSEs and other government agencies.

The scheme also:

• Works with industry associations to promote participation in public procurement.
• Facilitates vendor development programmes with CPSEs.
• Provides mentoring and handholding support.
• Organizes entrepreneurship and skill-development programmes.
• Shares SC/ST MSME databases with procuring agencies to increase procurement opportunities.
• Conducts outreach and awareness campaigns across the country.