Varanasi: The National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Varanasi District Administration signed an MoU on Wednesday to enhance

financial literacy

and

investor awareness

among

MSMEs

in Varanasi.
The MoU aims to facilitate fundraising through the Initial Public Offering (IPO) mechanism using the

NSE SME Platform

, NSE Emerge. As part of this initiative, the NSE will conduct awareness drives, seminars, and workshops to spread financial literacy and investor awareness. The partnership will also guide MSMEs in fundraising on the NSE Emerge platform and assist companies in the listing process. Additionally, it aims to empower youth with industry-relevant skills, enhancing their employability in the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector through NSE's Student Skilling Program.
The MoU was exchanged between Ankit Sharma, Chief Regulatory Officer, NSE, and Himanshu Nagpal, Chief Development Officer, Varanasi, in the presence of Governor Anandiben Patel and District Magistrate S. Rajalingam.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Anandiben Patel said, "Financial literacy and investor awareness are essential pillars for economic empowerment. This collaboration between the National Stock Exchange and the Varanasi District Administration is a significant step toward creating new opportunities for MSMEs through capital markets and equipping our youth with industry-relevant skills. By enhancing investor awareness and fostering financial inclusion, this initiative will contribute to the economic growth of Uttar Pradesh and strengthen its position as a hub of entrepreneurship and development. I commend NSE and the administration for their commitment to empowering our citizens and driving financial progress in the state."

Varanasi DM S. Rajalingam said that this MoU is not just about expanding financial knowledge; it is about empowering citizens, students, MSMEs, and corporates alike with the knowledge, tools, and skills needed to thrive. Chief Development Officer Himanshu Nagpal
also spoke.