By Global Consultants Review Team
More than 3.07 crore women-led enterprises have been registered on the government’s Udyam platforms as of February 28, 2026, reflecting the growing participation of women entrepreneurs in India’s MSME ecosystem, the Centre informed Parliament. Responding to a written question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for MSME Shobha Karandlaje said the government has been implementing a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s entrepreneurship and expanding their presence in the micro, small and medium enterprises sector.
According to data available on the Udyam Registration Portal (URP) and the Udyam Assist Platform, a total of 3,07,42,621 women-led enterprises had been registered by the end of February 2026.
Among the key initiatives supporting these enterprises is the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises, which is implemented through the Credit Guarantee Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE). The scheme enables banks and financial institutions to extend loans to MSMEs without requiring collateral security or third-party guarantees, making credit more accessible to small businesses.
Women-led enterprises receive additional benefits under the programme. They are eligible for an enhanced credit guarantee coverage of up to 90 percent, compared with 75 percent for other enterprises. In addition, women entrepreneurs are provided a 10 percent relaxation in the guarantee fee, further easing their access to institutional finance.
The government is also supporting women artisans and entrepreneurs through the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which offers both basic and advanced skill training along with stipend support. The programme includes modules on entrepreneurship development, financial literacy and digital literacy to help beneficiaries strengthen their business capabilities.
Participants are also guided on the use of modern tools and equipment relevant to their trades. The scheme further assists artisans in marketing their products by helping them list items on e-commerce platforms and improve branding and promotion.
Another initiative, the Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI), focuses on cluster-based development. It provides skill development programmes, awareness sessions, digital marketing training and technical support across the value chain.
The scheme also facilitates product design and development, exposure visits, participation in seminars and workshops, and technology upgrades to strengthen traditional industries and improve market access for small entrepreneurs.
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