National SC-ST Hub Scheme: Empowering Entrepreneurs from SC/ST
The National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Scheme aims to support entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, promoting their participation in the economy.
Source: PIB All ReleasesThe National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Scheme is a key initiative by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME). It focuses on empowering entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) across India. The scheme helps these entrepreneurs participate more effectively in public procurement. It provides various support services, including financial assistance, capacity building, and market access. The NSSH scheme also works to ensure that government departments and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) meet the mandatory procurement target from SC/ST-owned MSMEs. This initiative is crucial for fostering inclusive growth and economic development among marginalized communities. The National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Scheme plays a vital role in bridging the entrepreneurial gap.
This scheme is important for competitive exams like UPSC and SSC under Government Schemes and Social Justice topics (UPSC GS Paper II). Aspirants should understand its objectives, implementing ministry, and target beneficiaries. Questions often focus on initiatives for inclusive growth and empowerment of vulnerable sections, making the NSSH scheme a relevant topic for both prelims and mains.
- The National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Scheme is under the Ministry of MSME.
- It aims to empower entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
- The scheme promotes participation of SC/ST MSMEs in public procurement.
- It provides financial assistance, capacity building, and market access.
- The NSSH helps government bodies meet the 4% procurement target from SC/ST MSMEs.
- The scheme was launched in 2016.
A scheme launched by the Ministry of MSME in 2016. Its main goal is to support SC/ST entrepreneurs by providing them with professional support, financial assistance, and market linkages. It also helps government departments meet their procurement targets from SC/ST-owned businesses.
The Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises is a branch of the Government of India. It is the apex body for the formulation and administration of rules, regulations and laws relating to micro, small and medium enterprises in India. It aims to promote growth and development of MSMEs.
A government policy that mandates central ministries, departments, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) to procure a certain percentage of their total annual purchases from Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs). For SC/ST-owned MSEs, a sub-target of 4% is set.
Examiners often ask about the implementing ministry, target beneficiaries, and key objectives of government schemes. Focus on the 4% procurement target and the year of launch for NSSH.
NSSH: 'Nurturing SC/ST Hubs' helping SC/ST entrepreneurs grow their businesses and connect with government procurement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of the National SC-ST Hub Scheme?
The main objective of the National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Scheme is to promote entrepreneurship among Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. It aims to facilitate their participation in public procurement and provide them with necessary support for business growth and development.
Which ministry is responsible for implementing the NSSH Scheme?
The Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) is the nodal ministry responsible for the implementation and oversight of the National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Scheme. It works to ensure the scheme's objectives are met effectively.
What is the procurement target for SC/ST enterprises under the NSSH scheme?
Under the Public Procurement Policy, the NSSH scheme aims to ensure that Central Ministries, Departments, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) procure at least 4% of their total annual purchases from Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) owned by Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.