Bhopal, May 5 : The Madhya Pradesh government on Tuesday announced the establishment of a State-Level Trade Welfare Board, a move aimed at strengthening the state's trade and industrial ecosystem, officials said.

The Ministry of Industrial Investment, under the stewardship of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, will oversee the board, with the Chief Minister himself serving as its chair, the state Cabinet decided on Tuesday.

The Department of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), currently under Minister Chetanya Kumar Kashyap, will be a key member, alongside representatives from seven to eight other departments directly linked to trade and commerce, the Minister said here on Tuesday after the Cabinet meeting.

In addition, five to six prominent non-governmental organisations, including FICCI and Laghu Udyog Bharati, will be represented, along with 10 government-nominated members tasked with advising on trade growth, development, and employee welfare.

The initiative also envisions committees at the district level, ensuring that the benefits of this board reach grassroots traders and small-scale industrialists.

At its core, the board's primary mission is to promote exports by educating traders about available schemes and creating a supportive environment for trade expansion across districts.

"A significant responsibility entrusted to the board is the formulation of policy proposals that simplify regulations, thereby enhancing the ease of doing business," Minister Kashyap added.

"The aim is to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and administrative obstacles, enabling traders to operate with greater efficiency and confidence," he said.

This decision reflects a broader vision of empowering small traders and industrialists, while simultaneously aligning with national priorities of boosting exports and strengthening the economy.

"By involving both government departments and respected non-governmental institutions, the board is expected to provide balanced perspectives and practical solutions," the Minister added.

The inclusion of district-level committees underscores the state government's intent to ensure that even local traders benefit from these reforms.

With its focus on regulatory simplification, export promotion, and welfare of employees, the Trade Welfare Board marks a significant step in Madhya Pradesh's industrial and commercial policy framework.

"It is anticipated to foster a more business-friendly environment, encourage investment, and contribute to the state's economic growth," Minister Kashyap said.

/IANS