Prabhat Kumar Jha, an accomplished technocrat and management expert, has dedicated over three decades to the advancement of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India. Currently serving as the Executive Director (Central Zone) of the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) under the Ministry of MSME, his unparalleled contributions to policy formulation, skill development, and global promotion of MSME products have been transformative.

A Strong Educational Foundation
Born on January 1, 1965, Jha pursued a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil from Lalit Narayan Mithila University (L.N.M.U.) and later earned a postgraduate degree in Computer Programming and Business Management from the Lalit Narayan Mishra Institute of Economic Development & Social Changes. These academic credentials equipped him with a unique blend of technical and managerial expertise, forming the cornerstone of his illustrious career.

A Trailblazer at NSIC
Since joining NSIC, Jha’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering MSME growth. His initiatives have included designing credit facilitation, marketing support, and technology-based schemes to empower small businesses. By transforming NSIC’s branch offices into independent profit centers, he introduced customer-centric systems that streamlined operations.

Jha spearheaded strategic alliances with major raw material producers like Indian Oil Corporation and Arcelor Mittal, ensuring that MSMEs received essential resources at competitive prices. These efforts significantly reduced production costs, enabling sustainable growth for countless enterprises.

International Expertise and Global Recognition
As the Head of the International Industrial Cooperation Group on MSMEs, Jha has elevated Indian MSME products onto the global stage. Leading delegations to 29 countries, he has facilitated partnerships and signed MoUs with nations such as South Korea, Japan, and Canada. These collaborations have enhanced the global footprint of Indian MSMEs, fostering international trade and technological exchange.

Representing India at international forums like the Asian Productivity Organization in Japan, Jha shared invaluable insights on creative entrepreneurship, underscoring India’s potential as a hub for innovation and value creation.

Contributions Beyond the Workplace
Jha’s commitment extends beyond the industrial sector. He played a vital role in the rehabilitation efforts following the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, working to revive industries in the Kutch region. As a faculty member at the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India since 2000, he has trained aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to contribute to India’s economic growth.

Awards and Accolades
Jha’s exceptional contributions have earned him numerous honors, including the Rashtriya Udyog Ratna and the Quality Brand India Award (2012-2014). He was also recognized with the Regional Udyog Award (2008) by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which later conferred him with the prestigious Udyog Ratna Award in 2014-2015.

A Thought Leader in MSME Development
In addition to his administrative and leadership roles, Jha has authored insightful articles on the Indian industrial landscape, published in leading newspapers. His vision and dedication have not only redefined MSME policies in India but have also positioned the country as a global leader in small enterprise innovation.

Through his unwavering commitment, Prabhat Kumar Jha continues to empower entrepreneurs, promote sustainable growth, and inspire the next generation of innovators. His journey exemplifies the transformative impact of visionary leadership in shaping socio-economic progress.

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