The National SC-ST Hub (NSSH) Scheme, implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), is playing a significant role in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) enterprises across India. By providing support for technology adoption, business development, compliance improvement and access to government procurement opportunities, the scheme is enabling small businesses to become more competitive and sustainable.
Through initiatives such as the Special Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (SCLCSS) and the Business Acceleration Programme (BAP), the NSSH is helping entrepreneurs overcome operational challenges and expand their presence in institutional markets. The success stories of Varun Enterprises in Punjab, Raju Thangavelu’s petroleum logistics enterprise in Tamil Nadu, and BOI (B. Ortho International Pvt. Ltd.) in Jharkhand highlight the impact of targeted government interventions in transforming SC-ST businesses.
Varun Enterprises: Advancing Engineering Capabilities Through Technology Upgrade
Varun Enterprises, led by Mr. Hukum Chand in Punjab, has emerged as a reliable name in the engineering and manufacturing sector by focusing on precision, quality and adherence to industry standards. The enterprise gradually developed expertise in delivering industrial solutions for institutional and government buyers.
However, as business opportunities expanded, the company faced the challenge of increasing production capacity while maintaining efficiency and quality standards. To address these requirements, Varun Enterprises received support of ₹15.67 lakh under the Special Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme during 2021-22 through the National SC-ST Hub Office, Ludhiana.
The financial assistance enabled the enterprise to install advanced manufacturing equipment, including a fibre laser cutting system, CNC hydraulic press brake, air compressor and other supporting infrastructure. The technological improvements enhanced production efficiency, improved product accuracy and reduced operational limitations.
The upgraded capabilities helped Varun Enterprises enter larger procurement markets. A major achievement came when the enterprise secured a purchase order worth ₹95.99 lakh from the Modern Coach Factory (MCF), Rae Bareli, for supplying connection boxes used in railway coaches. The milestone strengthened the company’s reputation as a dependable engineering supplier for the railway sector.
Raju Thangavelu: Strengthening Petroleum Logistics Through Strategic Support
In Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu, Mr. Raju Thangavelu built a successful enterprise in the petroleum logistics sector by providing bulk fuel transportation services. The company established credibility through strict adherence to safety norms, operational discipline and regulatory compliance.
With increasing demand for transportation services, the enterprise required expansion of its fleet and improvement of safety-related infrastructure to meet the expectations of oil marketing companies. Under the NSSH framework, the enterprise received ₹25 lakh assistance through SCLCSS.
The support helped upgrade transportation facilities, improve operational efficiency and strengthen compliance mechanisms. These improvements enhanced the enterprise’s ability to handle large-scale assignments while meeting industry safety standards.
The upgraded capabilities opened new opportunities in public procurement. A significant achievement was securing a transportation contract from Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) in April 2026. The contract reflected the enterprise’s growing capacity and its ability to successfully execute large logistics operations in the petroleum sector.
BOI: Transforming Healthcare Manufacturing Through Integrated Assistance
BOI (B. Ortho International Pvt. Ltd.), based in Ranchi, Jharkhand, represents another example of how NSSH interventions can accelerate business growth. Led by Mr. Rahul and Mrs. Divya, the company operates in the medical and orthopedic manufacturing sector, producing healthcare products while maintaining quality and compliance standards.
As market demand increased, the enterprise required advanced machinery, improved production systems and stronger business strategies. Through support from the National SC-ST Hub, Ranchi, BOI benefited from both SCLCSS and the Business Acceleration Programme.
While SCLCSS assisted in strengthening manufacturing infrastructure, the Business Acceleration Programme provided mentorship, business guidance and market support. These interventions helped the company significantly increase production capacity and improve operational performance.
Today, BOI manufactures around 50,000 pairs of latex surgical gloves daily. The enterprise’s improved efficiency and quality standards contributed to doubling its turnover from ₹15 lakh to ₹30 lakh. The company has also supported local employment generation, with women constituting around 60% of its workforce.
Promoting Inclusive Industrial Growth
The achievements of Varun Enterprises, Raju Thangavelu’s enterprise and BOI demonstrate the transformative impact of the National SC-ST Hub Scheme. By combining financial assistance, technology support, mentoring and market access, the initiative is helping SC-ST entrepreneurs overcome barriers and participate more effectively in India’s industrial and procurement ecosystem.
The scheme continues to contribute to inclusive economic growth by encouraging entrepreneurship, strengthening supply chains and creating employment opportunities. As India moves towards greater self-reliance in manufacturing and services, the National SC-ST Hub remains an important platform for empowering entrepreneurs and turning business potential into long-term success.
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
