A management development programme, framed as a governmental initiative, has commenced in Hubballi, aiming to bolster capabilities within the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. The event, organized under the Union government's Management Development Program (MDP), features sessions on crucial aspects such as export documentation, procedures, and navigating international markets. Resource persons are also detailing existing governmental support mechanisms designed for these enterprises. The programme is scheduled to run until March 13 at the NKSSIA auditorium, with participants slated to receive certificates.
The urgency for such programs appears underscored by reports indicating that the region's MSMEs continue to face difficulties, even with significant financial injections like a ₹136 crore subsidy. This reality has led to a notable decline in major industries within the Hubballi-Dharwad area over recent years. Industry observers note the scarcity of medium-sized enterprises, with the existing MSMEs largely serving as suppliers to the single major industry present, Tata company, which itself has a limited vendor base.
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Program Details and Presenters
The ongoing programme is an initiative by the NKSSIA (North Karnataka Small Scale Industries Association). Speakers at the event included Manohar Kotturu Shettar, who provided insights into the intricacies of export documentation and the preparatory steps for global market entry. Representatives from the MSME department, such as Doni Kiran (Joint Director) and Assistant Director, were present to elucidate the available government assistance schemes.

Association Leadership and Context
The NKSSIA leadership, including president Ramesh Patil, vice-presidents Vijesh Saigal and Nagesh Ritti, secretary Sripathi Bhat, and treasurer Michael Madakatti, have been involved in promoting the event. Patil has emphasized the importance of such training in strengthening the small-scale industry and enhancing managerial skills. Other association members like Prashant Achalkar and Sandeep Bidasaria were also noted as attendees.
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Broader Economic Landscape
The economic context for MSMEs in the Hubballi-Dharwad region appears precarious. An industrialist, identified as Manohar Kotturshettar, highlighted the diminishing presence of medium-sized industries. Furthermore, MLA Mahesh Tenginkai has called upon the state government to actively pursue policies aimed at attracting new industries to the region, pointing out the limited industrial diversification currently in place.
Background
The Management Development Program (MDP) is a facet of the Union government's efforts to foster growth and competitiveness within the MSME sector. The North Karnataka Small Scale Industries Association (NKSSIA) is an industry body representing the interests of these enterprises in the region. Reports of MSMEs struggling despite substantial subsidies and a declining industrial base in Hubballi-Dharwad suggest systemic challenges that may extend beyond managerial training.