FISME, or the Federation of Indian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, has issued a series of suggestions that are in accordance with government policies and programmes in order to achieve increased digital inclusion for MSMEs.
FISME represents over two million MSMEs through its network of 740 MSME organisations.
Supporting the transition from cash to digital mechanisms, more support for women entrepreneurs, establishing and developing e-commerce models that align with the needs of MSMEs, and driving demand while supporting the onboarding of micro-merchants onto formal e-commerce platforms are just a few of the recommendations.
COVID- This industry has realised that in order to survive and develop, it must utilize digital tools. FISME Secretary-General Anil Bhardwaj stated,
“Without digital inclusion measures, we won’t be able to fully realise the benefits of the digital ecosystem’s solutions.” There’s a larger chance that digital advancements will exacerbate inequality rather than improve it. As a result, in the context of digital, concerns of opportunity, access, knowledge, and skill must be identified and addressed.”
Ecommerce, particularly platforms like Amazon, has had a significant impact in creating jobs, increasing exports, and more, according to a statement made by the representing organisation. “Limited access to basic internet infrastructure has denied many (particularly women-led and indigenous MSMEs) of what has become indispensable in everyday life,” says the report.
Local governments in rural regions must also encourage and enable internet access, logistical networks, and a framework for complaints and conflict resolution, according to Anil. He also believes that incentives such as a simplified GST registration process and lower tax levels should be made available.
Attribution-SMDStory