Patna: Union minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and Bihar chief minister Samrat Choudhary on Tuesday inaugurated a Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Technology Centre at Sikandarpur village in Bihta, along with extension centres in Muzaffarpur, Rohtas, Darbhanga and Munger.
The initiative aims to promote entrepreneurship, generate employment and strengthen participation of Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities in business and public procurement.
Focus On Skill Development And Jobs
Officials said the centres are designed to connect youth with employment opportunities while supporting small-scale industries.
The facility in Bihta, spread over 15 acres, has been developed at a cost of around Rs 171 crore, while four additional centres—each built over 15,000 sq ft—have been constructed at a cost of about Rs 10 crore each.
Promoting SC/ST Entrepreneurship
The programme is being implemented under the National SC/ST Hub scheme, which seeks to increase the participation of SC/ST entrepreneurs in government procurement.
Under the policy, ministries, departments and central public sector undertakings are required to procure at least 4% of their goods and services from SC/ST enterprises.
Exhibition And Outreach
A series of stalls showcasing MSME initiatives and opportunities have been set up at the Bihta centre.
The chief minister and the Union minister inspected these stalls before the inauguration, reviewing facilities aimed at supporting entrepreneurs.
Visitors are being provided information on accessing government contracts, vendor registration and participation in procurement processes.
Boost To Local Economy
Officials said the centres are expected to enhance awareness, build capacity and create new employment opportunities within the state.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen Bihar’s industrial ecosystem and promote inclusive economic growth through targeted support for marginalised communities.
