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Context:

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) has launched the Udyam Sakhi Portal to empower women entrepreneurs across India. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader objective of fostering self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) and promoting women’s participation in economic activities.Key Features of the Portal:

1. One-stop resource: Offers information on financial schemes, policies, and business plan guidance.
2. Financial Schemes Covered:
   • PMEGP: Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme
   • CGTMSE: Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises
   • MUDRA: Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency loans
   • TReDS: Trade Receivables e-Discounting System
3. Support Services: Details of nodal offices, policy guidance, business mentorship.
4. Market Linkage: Information on exhibitions, trade fairs, and international events.
5. Impact: Over 4,500 women registered so far; promotes entrepreneurship and self-reliance.

Significance for UPSC Aspirants:

• Governance & Policy: Demonstrates government initiatives in women empowerment, MSME support, and financial inclusion.
• Economic Development: Highlights measures for boosting entrepreneurship and microenterprise growth, critical for employment generation.
• Social Empowerment: Strengthens gender equality in economic participation.
• Technological Integration: Online portal facilitates easy access to schemes, showcasing digital governance.

Critical Perspective:

• Positives: Centralized access to schemes, mentorship, and market linkage; promotes inclusive growth.
• Challenges: Limited outreach in rural areas, need for awareness campaigns, and sustained engagement for scalability.

Conclusion:

The Udyam Sakhi Portal reflects a strategic approach by the government to empower women entrepreneurs, integrate technology in governance, and promote inclusive economic development—a significant development for aspirants to link policy with real-world impact.

Updated 18/08/2025, 3:27 PM | DD NEWS