29.09.2026 : Governor Jishnu Dev Varma urges MSMEs to explore global markets

Governor Jishnu Dev Varma urges MSMEs to explore global markets

Kolhapur, Sept. 29 (DGIPR): Governor Jishnu Dev Varma today called upon micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that have not yet ventured into exports to actively explore international markets.

He was speaking at the inauguration of the 7th Reverse Buyer–Seller Meet organized by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) and the Maharashtra Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (MSSIDC) at Hotel Sayaji, Kolhapur.

The Governor observed that the number of MSMEs has now reached 9.61 crore, contributing nearly 48.58 percent to India’s total exports and providing employment to about 42 crore people. After agriculture, MSMEs are the largest source of employment. He urged Indian industries to become globally competitive and deliver their products to markets worldwide, while commending Maharashtra as one of the nation’s most dynamic economic powerhouses.

During FY 2025–26, Maharashtra’s total merchandise exports stood at approximately USD 69.9 billion, of which Kolhapur alone contributed USD 722 million. The Governor described the two day meet as an ideal platform for buyers and sellers to connect.

MSSIDC Managing Director Mrs. Prerna Deshbratar highlighted the Government of India’s flagship initiative RAMP (Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance), implemented with World Bank support to enhance industry capacity, expand market access, and strengthen institutional frameworks. FIEO CEO Dr. Ajay Sahai noted that Maharashtra accounts for 16 percent of India’s total exports and urged participants to maximize the opportunities of this meet to identify potential partners and build long term business relationships.

On this occasion, the Governor visited the exhibition stalls and interacted with exhibitors.
The meet showcases products including agricultural produce, processed foods, engineering goods, textiles, leather items, garments, handicrafts, and silver jewellery. The objective is to enable MSMEs in Maharashtra to establish direct business contacts with international buyers, discover new export markets, and access fresh opportunities in the global arena.

Over two days, more than 52 international buyers from 27 countries and over 450 MSMEs from Maharashtra are participating in this buyer–seller meet.

Governor’s Secretary Dr. Prashant Narnavare, FIEO Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ajay Sahai, MSSIDC Managing Director Mrs. Prerna Deshbratar, and FIEO Regional Chairman Mr. Khushwant Jain and invitees were present.