HYDERABAD: The fifth edition of the Dalit Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DICCI) Industrial and Trade Expo-2015 will be held on February 13, 14 and 15 at Hitex Exhibition Grounds, Madhapur.
As many as 350 entrepreneurs from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities from across the country are expected to participate in the expo by showcasing their products ranging from micro components to heavy machinery.
Speaking at the introductory session held on Wednesday, Ravi Kumar Narra, Co-ordinator of DICCI, South India, informed that a number of banking institutions and public sector undertakings will participate in the event as well. “We have already signed MoUs with 50 business enterprises, who have assured to use more products manufactured by Dalits in their trading activities,” he said.
According to Narra, MoUs were also signed with Indian School of Business and National Institute of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to encourage students from SC/ST communities.
Pradeep Chandra, special chief secretary ensured that the state government is working closely in promoting the Dalit entrepreneurship. He mentioned that industrial giants such as Godrej and Tata have shown interest in engaging the products manufactured by Dalits.
“We have already signed an MoU with TATA in providing drinking water to various villages across the state of Telangana,” he said. Chandra had also hinted of starting a Dalit park for the aspiring entrepreneurs in the state. “We have already earmarked certain locations in the state to set up a separate park for the entrepreneurs. Though nothing has been crystallized yet, we are working towards it,” he added.