Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman revealed a dedicated Rs 10,000 crore SME Growth Fund in the Budget 2026-27 to nurture future champions among small and medium enterprises. She also proposed adding Rs 2,000 crore to the Self-Reliant India Fund from 2021 to continue supporting micro enterprises with risk capital access.
Sitharaman emphasized the government’s commitment to action and reform over rhetoric, prioritizing people’s welfare. She outlined three ‘kartavyas’ or duties, with the first focusing on boosting economic growth, enhancing productivity, competitiveness, and resilience to global uncertainties.
Acknowledging MSMEs as crucial growth drivers, the Finance Minister introduced a three-pronged strategy to assist them in becoming champions. This includes establishing a Rs 10,000 crore SME fund for equity support and providing liquidity support through initiatives like TReDS, which has already made over Rs 7 lakh crore accessible to MSMEs.
In a bid to enhance professional support, Sitharaman announced plans to collaborate with professional institutions like ICAI, ICSI, and ICMAI to develop ‘Corporate Mitras’ through short-term courses. These para-professionals will aid MSMEs in meeting compliance requirements cost-effectively, particularly in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
