The Investment Promotion Scheme (IPS) for the MSME Sector, specifically its sub-scheme "Assistance For Entrepreneurship Under Skill Development," is a key initiative by the Department of Industries, U.T. Administration of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu. Launched initially in 2015, the scheme has been extended to remain operative until May 19, 2027.
Its overarching goal is to foster a vibrant and resilient MSME ecosystem within the Union Territory, safeguarding businesses from market volatility and promoting sustainable growth. The primary objective of the broader IPS scheme is to provide targeted incentives and comprehensive assistance to MSMEs. This includes strategic efforts to maximize women's participation in the business sector, create employment opportunities for local residents, and incentivize industries to hire resident laborers, thereby contributing to local economic development and reducing unemployment.
The "Assistance For Entrepreneurship Under Skill Development" sub-scheme directly supports this vision by focusing on human capital development. It offers financial assistance to both aspiring entrepreneurs and the existing workforce of established businesses to undertake critical entrepreneurship, management, or skill development training. This training must be sourced from reputable national-level institutions or those certified by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) or State Skill Councils, ensuring high-quality, industry-relevant learning experiences. By subsidizing these training costs, the scheme aims to enhance the capabilities of the local entrepreneurial base, improve operational efficiencies for existing MSMEs, and ultimately drive innovation and competitiveness across the region's industrial landscape.