Outlook Planet C3: Maharashtra and Arunachal Pradesh Lead Green Initiatives for MSMEs

The second day of Outlook Planet C3 Summit and Awards set the stage for a discussion on the key strategies being implemented in various states to promote sustainability and resilience within the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector.

“We have always been focused on supporting sustainability through various government schemes and community involvement,” said R. Vimala, RC Maharashtra, at the summit held in Delhi on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

Vimala shared Maharashtra's commitment to supporting sustainable practices through government schemes and community involvement. She highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Employment Guarantee Program (PMEGP), which offers subsidies of up to 25% for MSMEs adopting green energy solutions. "For women entrepreneurs, this subsidy increases to 35%, which is a significant support," she added.

In addition, Vimala discussed the Maharashtra State Khadi Village Industries Board’s free beekeeping program, which promotes organic farming while boosting food security. "This is a simple yet impactful initiative, helping farmers use bee boxes to harvest honey and support sustainable agriculture," she said.

Saugat Biswas, Commissioner of Industries and Trade & Commerce of Arunachal Pradesh, also outlined the state's green initiatives, especially in the energy sector.

"Arunachal Pradesh is a unique state, largely untouched by pollution compared to other parts of India," Biswas said, highlighting the state’s environmental consciousness. He discussed the state’s new industrial policy, which takes effect on April 1st. The policy includes a 50% subsidy for industries transitioning from diesel generators to renewable energy sources, as well as incentives for electric vehicles and pollution control devices.

"We are also pushing for wastewater recycling and promoting waste-to-wealth industries," Biswas added.

Both speakers emphasized that these state-level initiatives are crucial for MSMEs to adopt sustainable practices, reduce their environmental impact, and remain competitive in the rapidly evolving green economy. By focusing on green energy, government support, and community participation, Maharashtra and Arunachal Pradesh are leading the way toward a more sustainable future for MSMEs.