Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Jitan Ram Manjhi on his birthday, acknowledging his extensive service toward uplifting marginalized communities. Highlighting his dedication to public life over several decades, the Prime Minister pointed to the minister's active involvement in strengthening small businesses and accelerating industrial development across the country.
Focus on Underprivileged Communities and Economic Progress
Recognized for his longstanding commitment to social justice and underprivileged citizens, Jitan Ram Manjhi has spent decades navigating grassroots public service. Praising his sustained dedication, the Prime Minister remarked, "In his many years in public life, he has always worked to empower the poor and underprivileged." The message also underscored the minister's leading role in energizing the MSME ecosystem, an area considered pivotal for domestic manufacturing and widespread employment generation.
Expanding Grassroots Enterprise Initiatives
Under the stewardship of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, multiple structured programmes have targeted artisanal workers and local businesses. A prominent milestone included inaugurating the PM Vishwakarma Haat 2026 in New Delhi, tailored to provide traditional craftspersons with market access, toolkits, and collateral-free credit. Furthermore, a major conclave focusing on the PM Vishwakarma initiative and the National SC-ST Hub took place in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, reinforcing financial inclusion and mentorship for entrepreneurs from scheduled caste and scheduled tribe backgrounds.
Trade Outreach and Institutional Support
Efforts to introduce local enterprises to broader commercial markets led to the establishment of the dedicated MSME Pavilion during the 43rd India International Trade Fair. Alongside marketing expos, reviews of institutional operations took place during an official visit to the National Small Industries Corporation office in Mumbai. Beneficiaries of small enterprise schemes were also invited as special guests to witness the Republic Day Parade 2026 at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, where Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje also interacted with participants. Marking MSME Day 2026 under the Udyami Bharat banner, Vice President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan presided over discussions emphasizing self-reliance and innovation.
About Jon Hiseman
Philip John Albert "Jon" Hiseman was an English drummer, recording engineer, record producer, and music publisher. Known for his technical virtuosity, he performed with notable groups such as the Graham Bond Organisation and John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers. He subsequently founded Colosseum, a seminal ensemble that played a pioneering role in shaping jazz rock and progressive rock. In 1975, he continued his musical legacy by forming Colosseum II, leaving an enduring mark on contemporary drumming.
Public Reaction
Online responses featured warm birthday greetings alongside endorsements of recent industrial initiatives, while several commenters questioned the pace of ground-level welfare execution for traditional artisans.
