Lean manufacturing scheme for MSMEs launched

Dinsha Patel, Minister of State, Independent Charge, (MSME), has launched 'Lean Manufacturing Competitive Scheme' for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises at Vigyan Bhavan today.

"The scheme is being implemented on a cluster-based approach in different parts of the country. Initially the scheme will be implemented in 100 mini clusters (a group of 10 units) for one year at a total cost of Rs. 30 crores," the minister said in his address.

"The objective of lean intervention will be to assist MSME units in reducing their manufacturing cost through provided process flows, reduced engendering time, proper personnel management, better space utilization, scientific inventory management, so on."

"Under this scheme, Lean Manufacturing Counselors will be deployed in selected clusters who will identify and implement appropriate lean manufacturing techniques," Patel added.

The minister underscored the benefits of different schemes being implemented by Ministry of MSME for micro, small and medium enterprises to enable these sector to become more competitive in the local and the international market.

He urged all industries and the associations to drive maximum advantages from these schemes in the period of recession.

Meanwhile in his keynote address, Dinesh Rai, Secretary (MSME), highlighted the economic scenario in the MSME sector and the need of manufacturing competitiveness.

Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner (MSME), Madhav Lal, has also welcomed the new scheme and briefly described about the implementation of the scheme.

After the inaugural secession, Dinsha Patel also released a handbook titled 'A Guide to Lean Manufacturing Competitiveness Scheme under National Competitiveness Programme'.

Courtesy: SME TIMES (July 29, 2009)