MADURAI
“While many parts of North Tamil Nadu have excelled in business, districts like Madurai, Dindigul and Theni have been left far behind,” said M. Gnanasekaran, a member of PKM Educational Trust, Usilampatti.
In a bid to inculcate the spirit of entrepreneurship among people in southern districts, the trust, along with Madurai District Tiny and Small Scale Industries Association, (MADITSSIA) is conducting a seminar on August 16.
The seminar on trade industries and skill development will help new entrepreneurs forage better ideas, business plans and proposals. The seminar is free for all and at least 500 delegates are expected.
M. Chandrasekaran, joint secretary, MADITSSIA, said that business Usilampatti, Sedapatti and Peraiyur had all dropped because rains were not in their favour. Earlier, sweet and biscuit companies were famous in these parts.
“In the last 20 years, education has risen significantly. However, most prefer working for the government or enter the private sector. Businessmen from Madurai do not prefer going and working in these parts because the scope for growth is less,” he said.
Mr. Gnanasekaran said that most students were unaware of the various government schemes and training centres that offer free guidance to businesspersons to scale up. “Such events give them the space to interact with their mentors and ask questions freely,” he said.
About 100 people will receive loans from Madurai’s lead bank at the end of the seminar. Tamil Nadu Small and Tiny Industries Association (TANSTIA) will also provide manpower and mentors for the programme.
Following the one-day seminar, interested entrepreneurs can take part in 10-day skill development programmes.