The Sukkur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) observed Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day on Saturday in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA). The event was attended by SCCI President Muhammad Khalid Kakezai, Senior Vice President Amit Kumar, members of the Executive Committee, and a large number of chamber members.
SMEDA's Role and Facilities
Speaking on the occasion, SMEDA District In-Charge Raza Mahar highlighted that SMEDA was established in 1998 as an attached department of the Ministry of Industries and Production, Government of Pakistan. He stated that SMEDA provides various facilities to micro, small, and medium enterprises, including business consultancy, entrepreneurial training, and access to grants and loans.
Prime Minister's Loan Scheme Details
Raza Mahar further informed that under the Prime Minister’s Loan Scheme, interest-free loans of up to Rs 500,000 and loans of up to Rs 7.5 million at an 8% annual interest rate are being provided through more than 20 public and private banks.
SCCI President's Welcome Address
In his welcome address, Muhammad Khalid Kakezai described MSMEs as the backbone of the national economy, employment generation, and business growth. He termed the development of the sector, support for the business community, and institutional collaboration a pressing need of the hour. He assured the chamber’s full cooperation for establishing a permanent SMEDA office in Sukkur.
Conclusion and Collective Commitment
At the conclusion of the event, participants agreed that through joint efforts by the government, SMEDA, and business organizations, micro, small, and medium enterprises can be further strengthened to play a significant role in the country’s economic growth.
