New Delhi
The FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) has called for increased support and empowerment of women entrepreneurs to significantly boost India’s economy. At an event on Friday, Joyshree Das Verma, President of FLO, emphasized the importance of strengthening women-led businesses, especially Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which form a crucial part of the economy.
The Economic Survey 2024-25 revealed that only 22% of MSMEs in India are women-owned, underscoring the need for greater initiatives to bridge this gap. Verma pointed out that despite government efforts, such as the Drone Didi and Ladli Behen Yojana schemes, women’s participation in entrepreneurship remains limited.
"This is not just a statistic; it is a call to action," Verma said during FLO’s award ceremony for women-led MSMEs in the national capital. She added that supporting women entrepreneurs not only fosters innovation and job creation but also contributes to economic resilience.
FLO has also launched the MSME Assist Cell, aimed at providing women entrepreneurs with guidance in areas like financial management, compliance, and market access. The initiative also offers mentorship and helps entrepreneurs make the most of government schemes.
The event saw 104 applications for the MSME awards, highlighting the talent and perseverance within the FLO network. Verma celebrated every applicant as a winner in their own right, noting that they are all contributing to India’s entrepreneurial success. FLO’s efforts continue to empower women through skill development, policy advocacy, and leadership mentoring.