IFQM Hosts First MSME Symposium in Chennai, Calls for "National Quality Sprint” to integrate with the global value chains
Chennai, March 20, 2026: The Indian Foundation for Quality Management (IFQM) convened its first MSME Symposium at Anna University, bringing together over 250 MSME leaders, large industry executives, quality experts, and academicians to deliberate on strengthening India’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) for global competitiveness. Themed “India Needs… A Resurgent MSME Sector,” the symposium called for a “national quality sprint” to accelerate integration with global value chains.
In his keynote address, Venu Srinivasan, Chairman, IFQM, underscored that transforming MSMEs through productivity, quality, and innovation could be pivotal in shaping a “new India.” He outlined a practical transformation agenda with time-bound goals such as doubling productivity, halving defects and inventory, and optimizing space within 12 months. He also highlighted IFQM’s cluster-based approach, with ten MSME clusters covering 67 enterprises already underway, aimed at driving systemic improvements and building “Brand India.”
Youtube Video link 👇
The symposium featured four panel discussions, two case studies, and multiple launches focused on bridging the quality gap between Indian MSMEs and global manufacturing standards. Soumitra Bhattacharya, CEO & Director, IFQM, noted that while India is among the fastest-growing large economies, its share of global trade remains under 2%. He emphasized that quality systems, supply chain integration, and a culture of precision are critical differentiators, drawing comparisons with Germany’s Mittelstand, which contributes significantly to that country’s exports. He added that India must earn its global position through consistent adherence to benchmarks, continuous improvement, and disciplined execution.
Highlighting the broader context, the MSME sector contributes around 31% to India’s GDP, 35% of manufacturing output, and nearly 49% of exports, employing over 32 crore people. However, India’s share in global merchandise exports remains about 1.8%, reflecting a gap between growth and global competitiveness that the symposium sought to address through actionable frameworks and industry-led solutions.
The event saw strong participation from leading companies including Boeing India, Bosch, Cummins India, Maruti Suzuki, TVS Motor Company, and Larsen & Toubro, among others. Discussions covered global sourcing expectations, domestic supply chain scaling, and MSME integration into large manufacturing ecosystems.
A case study by Motherson Group highlighted its journey from a single MSME to a global enterprise, offering a replicable growth blueprint. Interactive sessions such as “Listen & Unravel,” moderated by Deloitte, enabled direct engagement between MSME entrepreneurs and industry leaders, while a “Solutions & Roadmap” panel led by Dr. Jairam Varadaraj provided practical strategies, including financing solutions through L&T SUFiN.
IFQM also announced five key initiatives to drive MSME transformation: cluster development programmes, the IFQM Quality Excellence Prize (QEP) for MSMEs, a Leadership Development Course through the IFQM Academy, a Zero Defect Manufacturing course with SRM Institute of Science and Technology, and an Excellence in Manufacturing Engineering course with Vel Tech University. A screening of the Mittelstand documentary further showcased global best practices for MSME success.
****
