Hello Mumbai Business DeskÂ
World MSME Day 2026: Exclusive Interview with Sunil Gilani, Secretary, Pen & Stationery Association of India
On the occasion of World MSME Day 2026, Hello Mumbai News had the opportunity to hold an exclusive conversation with Sunil Gilani, Secretary of the Pen & Stationery Association of India. Representing one of the country’s key industry bodies, Gilani shares valuable insights into the vital role of the pen and stationery sector in strengthening India’s MSME ecosystem. He discusses the opportunities, challenges, innovation, manufacturing trends, and policy support needed to help MSMEs become more competitive, sustainable, and globally recognized. His perspectives underline the importance of collaboration between industry and government in driving the growth of Indian enterprises and supporting the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
How do you view the significance of World MSME Day for India’s micro, small and medium enterprises?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI)
World MSME Day is a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives India’s economy. MSMEs are the backbone of our industrial growth, contributing significantly to manufacturing, exports, innovation, and employment. This day recognizes their resilience, encourages entrepreneurship, and reminds us of the need to create a supportive ecosystem for sustainable growth.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What role do MSMEs in the pen and stationery sector play in India’s economy and employment generation?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
The pen and stationery industry is predominantly MSME-driven. Thousands of small and medium enterprises across India manufacture writing instruments, notebooks, office supplies, school stationery, and related products. The sector generates large-scale employment, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas, while supporting education, business, and administrative activities throughout the country.
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What are the biggest challenges currently faced by MSMEs in your sector?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
Our industry faces several challenges, including rising raw material costs, increasing logistics expenses, intense competition from low-cost imports, limited access to affordable finance, and evolving compliance requirements. Additionally, changing consumer preferences and the need for continuous innovation require MSMEs to invest more in technology and product development.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
How has the industry evolved in recent years in terms of innovation, manufacturing, and market demand?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
The Indian stationery industry has witnessed remarkable transformation. Manufacturers are adopting advanced production technologies, automation, environmentally friendly materials, and innovative product designs. Consumer demand has shifted towards premium, sustainable, and value-added products, while digital learning has created opportunities for new product categories alongside traditional stationery.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What policy support or reforms would you like to see from the government to strengthen MSMEs?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
The government has taken several positive initiatives for MSMEs. Going forward, we would like to see easier access to working capital, simplified compliance procedures, incentives for technology upgradation, stronger protection against unfair imports, support for exports, and dedicated schemes that encourage innovation and skill development within the stationery manufacturing sector.
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How important are digital adoption, branding, and e-commerce for small businesses in this sector?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
Digital transformation is no longer optionalit is essential. MSMEs must embrace digital marketing, online marketplaces, ERP systems, and social media branding to reach wider markets. A strong brand combined with an effective digital presence enables even small manufacturers to compete nationally and internationally.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What steps can associations like the Pen & Stationery Association of India take to support member enterprises?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
PSAI is committed to strengthening the industry by organizing trade exhibitions, networking platforms, knowledge-sharing sessions, government interactions, policy advocacy, training programmes, and international business opportunities. We also work to represent industry concerns before policymakers and encourage collaboration among manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.
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How can MSMEs become more competitive in domestic and global markets?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
Competitiveness comes from quality, innovation, efficiency, and customer trust. MSMEs should invest in modern manufacturing, quality certifications, research and development, sustainable products, skilled manpower, and strong branding. Exploring export opportunities and participating in international trade exhibitions will also help Indian manufacturers expand their global presence.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What message would you like to share with young entrepreneurs and small business owners on World MSME Day?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
I encourage young entrepreneurs to believe in their ideas, embrace innovation, remain customerfocused, and continuously upgrade their knowledge and technology. Challenges are part of every business journey, but perseverance, ethical practices, and a commitment to quality will always create long-term success. India’s future growth will be driven by its entrepreneurs.
Hello Mumbai NewsÂ
What is your vision for the future of the pen and stationery industry in India?
Sunil Ghelani Secretary (PSAI
I envision India becoming a global manufacturing hub for quality pens and stationery products. With supportive government policies, technological advancement, sustainability, and strong collaboration among industry stakeholders, Indian brands can achieve greater recognition in international markets. Our objective is to make the “Made in India” stationery industry synonymous with innovation, quality, and reliability worldwide. Best regards, Sunil Ghelani Hon. Secretary Pen & Stationery Association
