COSIA Holds Productive Meeting to Address Key Challenges Facing MSMEs

On 29^th January, 2025, COSIA hosted a meeting at TSSIA House, Thane, with representatives from multiple industry associations to discuss key challenges facing MSMEs. The session, led by Mr. Sandeep Parikh, President of COSIA, focused on a range of pressing issues affecting businesses across Maharashtra.

Key Highlights of the Meeting:

1. Knowledge Sessions on Indirect Taxes: COSIA is collaborating with Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan Law Firm to organize a series of awareness sessions for MSMEs on indirect tax-related topics, with dates and topics to be finalized with participating associations.
2. Power-Related Concerns: The discussion covered the Multi-Year Tariff proposal by MSEDCL, which is facing strong opposition due to proposed tariff hikes. Associations agreed to file objections and work together to oppose the move. The issue of illegal wheeling charges was also discussed, with a webinar planned to provide more insights.
3. Mathadi Law Issues: Mr. Sandeep Parikh addressed the misuse of the Mathadi Law by local extortionists, highlighting efforts by COSIA to petition the Maharashtra government for MSME exemptions and support from local police.
4. Vidarbha Region Issues: Several challenges specific to Vidarbha were raised, including the demand for a separate MSME department in the State Government, issues related to land acquisition, and the need for transport subsidies in rural areas to boost local industries.
5. Banking & Finance: Concerns over banking services, particularly issues related to private banks freezing internet banking for Trusts due to lack of NGO Darpan registration and delays in payments to utilities through net banking, were discussed. The need for a dedicated institution for MSME credit was also emphasized.
6. Environmental Concerns: Mr. Manoj Patil discussed the Tansa Eco-Sensitive Zone’s potential impact on industries near Shahpur, Atgaon, and Pundhe, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to resolve the issue.
7. COSIA Updates: The meeting concluded with updates on COSIA’s Kaushalya Vikas Yojana (KVY) initiatives, the new website, and updates on the GST issue regarding lease assignments in MIDC.

The meeting concluded with actionable decisions, including the organization of webinars, petitions to government bodies, and collaborative efforts to address MSME concerns across Maharashtra.

COSIA remains committed to empowering MSMEs by providing platforms for dialogue, advocacy, and resolution of challenges affecting the industry.