MSME Ministry Approves New Technology Centres in Himachal Pradesh

The Government of India has approved the establishment of two MSME Technology Centres in Himachal Pradesh. These centres will be set up at Pandoga in Una district and Parwanoo in Solan district. Each centre will be developed at a cost of about ₹10 crore. The initiative is expected to strengthen industrial development, skill training and employment opportunities in the state.

Why in News?

The MSME Ministry has approved two new MSME Technology Centres in Himachal Pradesh. Pandoga and Parwanoo have been selected as part of a nationwide expansion of technology centres.

Role of the MSME Ministry

• The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises plays a key role in promoting small businesses, entrepreneurship and industrial growth in India.
• It supports MSMEs through policy initiatives, financial assistance, infrastructure development and skill training.
• The approval of new Technology Centres reflects the ministry’s focus on regional industrial development, especially in hill and less-industrialized states like Himachal Pradesh.

Locations: Pandoga and Parwanoo

• The Technology Centres will be set up at Pandoga, located in Una district, and Parwanoo, a major industrial hub in Solan district.
• Parwanoo is strategically located near Chandigarh and is already known for manufacturing and industrial activity. Pandoga’s inclusion is expected to bring industrial growth to a relatively new area, helping balance regional development within the state.

Cost and National Expansion Plan

• Each MSME Technology Centre will be established at an estimated cost of ₹10 crore.
• Pandoga and Parwanoo are among the 13 new Technology Centres Extension Centres approved across the country.
• This national expansion aims to strengthen technical infrastructure for MSMEs, improve productivity and reduce dependence on external technology support.

Benefits for Industry and Investment

• The new centres will provide modern technical support to local industries.
• They will help MSMEs with advanced manufacturing techniques, design support and quality improvement.
• By offering better infrastructure and technical assistance, the centres are expected to attract fresh industrial investment in Himachal Pradesh, especially in manufacturing and allied sectors.

Employment and Skill Development Opportunities

• A major objective of these Technology Centres is to promote skill development among youth.
• The centres will offer technical training, hands on skill programmes and entrepreneurship support.
• This will improve employability and create better opportunities for self-employment and startups, helping reduce migration from the state and strengthening the local economy.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. The MSME Technology Centres at Pandoga and Parwanoo are being set up in which state?

A. Uttarakhand
B. Himachal Pradesh
C. Jammu & Kashmir
D. Punjab