Seven-Day Entrepreneurship Development Programme under CMESS Inaugurated at NIELIT Imphal

The inaugural function of a seven-day Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP), organised under the Chief Minister’s Entrepreneurship Support Scheme (CMESS) of the Manipur StartUp Scheme, was held at the Seminar Hall, NIELIT Imphal, Akampat. The programme aims to strengthen entrepreneurial awareness, enterprise-planning skills and self-employment readiness among aspiring entrepreneurs and the youth of Manipur.

CMESS is a State Government initiative designed to support eligible entrepreneurs in establishing and developing sustainable business enterprises through subsidy-linked bank financing. Under the scheme, eligible business proposals may receive financial assistance of up to ₹10 lakh, comprising a 30 per cent State Government subsidy, a 65 per cent bank loan and a 5 per cent beneficiary contribution.

A total of 180 participants from Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Ukhrul and Senapati districts are participating in the programme, representing both the valley and hill districts of the State. The seven-day programme is designed to provide practical exposure to entrepreneurship, business planning, innovation, enterprise management and opportunities available within the State’s start-up ecosystem.

The inaugural function was graced by Dr. R.K. Radhesana Devi, Director, Planning Department, Government of Manipur, as the Chief Guest. Dr. R.K. Tombisana Singh, Joint Director, Planning Department, Government of Manipur; Prof. Ch. Ibohal Meitei, Director, Manipur Institute of Management Studies (MIMS), Manipur University; and Dr. Kharibam Somorendro Singh, Former Director, Institute of Cooperative Management (ICM), attended the function as Guests of Honour. Dr. Yumnam Jayanta Singh, Executive Director, NIELIT Imphal Centre, presided over the function.

The programme began with the dignitaries taking their seats, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and the welcome address. Addressing the gathering, Dr. R.K. Tombisana Singh highlighted various government schemes and bank-linked funding opportunities available to aspiring entrepreneurs. Dr. Kharibam Somorendro Singh encouraged the participants to develop viable, innovative and locally relevant business ideas. Prof. Ch. Ibohal Meitei spoke about the importance of proper business planning and strategic management. He encouraged the youth of the State to explore promising business opportunities and seek appropriate financial support to transform their ideas into sustainable enterprises.

In her address, Chief Guest Dr. R.K. Radhesana Devi expressed satisfaction with the strong turnout of registered participants. She highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship in creating employment, promoting innovation and contributing to the socio-economic development of Manipur.

Delivering the presidential address, Dr. Yumnam Jayanta Singh emphasised the importance of capacity building, digital skills and institutional support in enabling aspiring entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into sustainable enterprises. He encouraged the participants to make full use of the training sessions, expert interactions and guidance provided during the seven-day programme.

The inaugural function concluded with a vote of thanks, followed by light refreshments. The programme is expected to equip participants with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills required to pursue entrepreneurship and contribute to the development of a stronger and more inclusive start-up ecosystem in Manipur.

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