New Delhi, Mar 26 (KNN) Telecom major Vodafone Idea (Vi) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the West Bengal State Export Promotion Society (WBSEPS) to accelerate digital transformation among the state’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The strategic partnership aims to strengthen the state’s MSME ecosystem, which currently employs over 10 million people.

The collaboration will leverage Vi’s digital assessment and advisory initiative, which has already evaluated approximately 190,000 MSMEs nationwide since its launch in 2022.

Under the partnership, the telecom company will provide localised digital tools and training modules specifically designed in Bengali, along with hosting webinars to enhance technological adoption among West Bengal’s business community.

Rajeev Mehta, Executive Vice President and Segment Head, Vi Business, emphasised the economic significance of this initiative, noting that MSMEs contribute 30 percent to India’s GDP.

“This partnership will empower these enterprises with digital capabilities to scale operations and access global markets,” Mehta stated.

The West Bengal government has highlighted the initiative’s particular focus on rural artisans and women entrepreneurs.

Rajesh Pandey, Principal Secretary of the MSME & Textiles Department, underscored the broader vision, stating that the program aligns with our mission to bridge the digital divide and foster inclusive growth.

This collaborative effort represents a significant step towards digital empowerment and economic development in the state, potentially serving as a model for other regions seeking to modernise their small business ecosystems.

(KNN Bureau)