New Delhi, Dec 5: The government announced on Friday the establishment of nine additional technology centres as part of the Technology Centre Systems Programme (TCSP), aimed at enhancing technical and skill development for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Minister of State for MSME, Shobha Karandlaje, revealed in a written statement to the Lok Sabha that Rs 200 crore has been allocated for the creation and operation of these centres during the financial year 2025–26.

These new centres will complement the existing 18 Technology Centres, which have successfully trained over 3.28 lakh individuals, including MSME entrepreneurs and their employees, in the year 2024–25.

The Technology Centres have been instrumental in conducting specialized skill development initiatives focusing on cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These advanced technology modules have been integrated into both long-term and short-term training programs to enhance MSME skill development.

The primary objective of these centres is to assist industries, particularly MSMEs, by providing access to advanced manufacturing technologies and offering skill development opportunities for youth, ranging from school dropouts to graduate engineers.

Additionally, they offer technical and business advisory services to MSME entrepreneurs.

The TCSP initiative aims to foster an innovative ecosystem by establishing physical infrastructure, including technology centres.

Moreover, it collaborates with world-class Manufacturing Technology Partners (MTPs) to enhance the technical capabilities of sector-specific technology centres, thereby improving support for MSMEs.

Furthermore, the initiative is focused on developing a centralized Technology Centre ERP solution and a portal to create a dynamic technology platform that addresses the diverse needs of MSMEs and streamlines major TC functions.