A special panel discussion on MSME policies and support for the events industry was organised jointly by Event and Entertainment Management Association and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry at FICCI Federation House in New Delhi.
The session aimed to facilitate dialogue between the events industry and policymakers regarding government schemes, policy support and challenges faced by businesses operating in the sector.
The discussion featured key representatives including Piyush Srivastava, Vijay Kumar and Sanjoy Roy, along with senior members of EEMA including Sanjeev Pasricha, Vipul Pandhi, Suresh Goel and Lalit Gattani.
During the session, industry representatives discussed the rapid growth of India’s event and entertainment sector and its contribution to employment generation, tourism and brand India initiatives. Participants also highlighted the importance of enabling easier access to MSME schemes, financing and government support for event companies.
Piyush Srivastava said there is a need to create greater awareness among event companies about MSME schemes and policy benefits. He encouraged EEMA members to register under MSME categories to avail government incentives and support programmes.
Sanjoy Roy stated that the events and entertainment industry employs over 30,000 people directly and supports livelihoods for more than 300,000 people through allied businesses. He urged the government to provide a level playing field and consider industry recommendations while framing MSME policies.
Vijay Kumar acknowledged the challenges faced by event companies in securing bank loans and accessing government schemes. He suggested the establishment of a design centre by EEMA to facilitate coordination between the industry, banks and the government.