3rd batch of MDPs concludes across 8 districts of J&K; JKEDI empowers 164 entrepreneurs, with 147 women leading the way under RAMP scheme

JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) has successfully concluded its third batch of Management Development Programs (MDPs) under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme. What makes this batch particularly significant is the overwhelming participation of women - out of 164 entrepreneurs trained, 147 were women, reflecting a remarkable shift towards greater gender inclusivity in J&K’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

These Management Development Programmes (MDPs) started on September 15, 2025 in the districts including Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam Ganderbal, Kathua, Poonch and Ramban. In these MDPs, 164 aspiring and existing entrepreneurs underwent the 30-hour long comprehensive training program of 30 hours spread over six days including a field visit and interaction with the experts from various sectors. The trained candidates include 147 females, which is both notable and encouraging, and reflects a significant shift towards greater gender inclusivity in the region’s entrepreneurial and professional development landscape.

During these MDPs, the candidates were exposed to strengthen their managerial, financial and strategic skills aimed at empowering them to scale up operations, enhance competitiveness and create sustainable enterprises. This flagship initiative is being implemented in alignment with the broader objectives of the Government of India’s RAMP program to bolster the MSME ecosystem. The MDP curriculum meticulously designed by subject matter experts included modules on business planning, marketing strategies, digital tools, financial literacy, compliance, innovation, and leadership. The program also included mentorship sessions, case studies, and hands-on workshops to provide real-world insights.

The Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme, is an initiative funded by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India and implemented by the Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

The successful conclusion of these MDPs of eight districts of Jammu and Kashmir is a testament to the commitment of JKEDI to empower the local entrepreneurs. Through targeted training, sector-specific expertise, and real-world exposure, the institute is equipping the entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge required to scale their businesses and contribute meaningfully to the economy of the region. The simultaneous launch of MDPs in 08 districts was aimed to ensure equitable access of the participants to the resources and training opportunities, particularly in remote and underdeveloped areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

In these MDPs, sector-specific training was imparted to the trainees during the course in which subject matter specialists from District Industries Centres, Labour and Employment Department interacted with the participants and shared useful insights with them. Field visits of the trainees to the successful business ventures were also organised during the programs to provide them real-time business exposure. The MPDs were constantly monitored by the designated Range/Reviewing Officers who interacted with the participants periodically for their feedback about the training being imparted.

Speaking at the valedictory function at JKEDI Kathua, Joint Director, JKEDI, Chand Kishor Sharma praised the participants and termed the initiative a vital step towards strengthening the MSME ecosystem. He encouraged the trainees to leverage their new skills to realize the vision of Viksit Bharat. “JKEDI will continue to work closely with all the stakeholders to expand such programs, ensuring that entrepreneurs from all sectors of the economy have access to the tools and resources they need to thrive,” he said.

The successful completion of these MDPs across eight districts reaffirms JKEDI’s mission to ensure equitable access to entrepreneurial training in both urban and remote areas of the Union Territory. The long-term impact of these programs is expected to be reflected in more resilient, innovative, and competitive enterprises, with women entrepreneurs taking the lead in driving economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.