Following the successful programme in Nalagarh, SkillLabs Resource Services facilitated another two-day Vendor Development Programme (VDP) in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, focusing on strengthening business linkages between local MSMEs and leading pharmaceutical and packaging companies.

Organised by the Department of Industries, Government of Himachal Pradesh, and the Himachal Pradesh Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (HPCED) under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme of the Government of India, the initiative aimed to help local enterprises access larger supply chains and procurement opportunities.

Connecting MSMEs with Leading Pharmaceutical Companies

The programme brought together local vendors and suppliers with leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), including Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Cipla, Macleods Pharma, Abbott Pharma, and Tirupati Group. Representatives shared valuable insights into vendor registration, onboarding procedures, procurement requirements, and the standards expected from prospective suppliers.

Key discussions highlighted two major supply opportunities for MSMEs:

• Direct supplies: Raw materials, packaging materials, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, laminates, cartons, and labels.
• Indirect supplies: Facility management, logistics, engineering spares, manpower, IT services, printing, and other support functions.

OEM representatives also explained critical vendor evaluation parameters, including quality compliance, GMP and ISO standards, cost competitiveness, timely delivery, audit readiness, and sustainability practices.

Strengthening Financial and Market Access

The programme also featured guidance from SIDBI on financial solutions and procurement platforms that can support MSME growth. Key areas included digital overdraft facilities, invoice discounting through TReDS, and opportunities available through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).

These discussions helped participating enterprises understand how to improve their financial readiness, meet buyer expectations, and prepare for vendor empanelment with larger organisations.

Building Stronger Industrial Partnerships

The two-day programme reinforced the importance of direct engagement between manufacturers, suppliers, financial institutions, and government bodies. By providing practical guidance on procurement, compliance, and financing, the initiative helped MSMEs better understand the steps required to become reliable supply-chain partners.

SkillLabs Resource Services extends its appreciation to the participating OEMs, DFO Solan, DIC Baddi, HPCED, and SIDBI for their contributions to this collaborative initiative.

Through the RAMP Programme, SkillLabs continues to support MSME competitiveness, strengthen market linkages, and create pathways for sustainable industrial growth in Himachal Pradesh.

From local supplier to trusted industry partner — building stronger MSMEs through meaningful connections.