MSME Competitive Lean Scheme (MCLS)
What is MSME Competitive Lean Scheme (MCLS) Certificate?
The MSME Competitive Lean Scheme (MCLS) Certificate is a recognition provided to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that have successfully implemented lean manufacturing practices under the MCLS initiative. This scheme, introduced by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), is designed to help MSMEs improve their operational efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall productivity. By adopting lean manufacturing techniques, businesses can streamline their processes, minimize costs, and improve product quality, thereby increasing their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. The MCLS Certificate serves as a testament to the enterprise’s commitment to adopting best practices and achieving operational excellence.
To obtain the MCLS Certificate, MSMEs undergo a structured process that includes training, implementation, and assessment. The scheme provides access to a network of lean manufacturing experts and consultants who guide businesses in identifying inefficiencies and implementing lean tools such as 5S, Kaizen, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and Value Stream Mapping (VSM). These tools help MSMEs eliminate non-value-adding activities, optimize resource utilization, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Once the lean practices are successfully implemented, the enterprise is evaluated by designated agencies, and upon meeting the required standards, the MCLS Certificate is awarded.
The MCLS Certificate not only enhances the credibility of MSMEs but also opens up new opportunities for growth and collaboration. Certified enterprises are better positioned to attract investors, secure government contracts, and compete in global markets. Additionally, the scheme emphasizes capacity building by creating a pool of trained professionals who can further support other MSMEs in their lean journey. By promoting lean manufacturing practices, the MCLS initiative contributes to the sustainable development of MSMEs, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly competitive business environment.
Benefits of MSME Competitive Lean Scheme (MCLS) Certificate
Improved Productivity and Efficiency
The MCLS Certificate helps MSMEs enhance their productivity and operational effi-ciency by implementing lean manufacturing techniques. These practices focus on eliminating non-value-adding activities, optimizing workflows, and reducing down-time.
Reduction in Waste and Improved Quality
Lean manufacturing emphasizes minimizing waste, whether it’s in the form of ex-cess inventory, overproduction, or defects. By adopting these practices, MSMEs can significantly reduce waste, lower production costs, and improve the quality of their products.
Enhanced Global Competitiveness
The MCLS Certificate equips MSMEs with the tools and techniques needed to com-pete in the global market. By streamlining processes and improving product quali-ty, businesses can meet international standards and cater to a wider customer base.
Financial Assistance for Lean Implementation
The scheme provides financial support to MSMEs for adopting lean manufacturing practices. This assistance helps businesses invest in training, technology, and pro-cess improvements without straining their financial resources.
Capacity Building and Training
MCLS focuses on creating a skilled workforce by offering training programs in lean manufacturing techniques. MSMEs gain access to a network of experts and con-sultants who guide them in implementing best practices.
Creation of a Pool of Trained Professionals
The scheme aims to develop a pool of certified professionals who can provide technical assistance to other MSMEs. These experts act as catalysts for spreading lean manufacturing practices across the industry, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
Who can apply for MSME Competitive Lean Scheme (MCLS) Certificate?
Micro Enterprises (UDYAM registered)
Small Enterprises (UDYAM registered)
Medium Enterprises (UDYAM registered)
Manufacturing Sector MSMEs
Existing MSMEs
New MSMEs
MSMEs seeking productivity improvement
MSMEs interested in lean training
Documents Required for MSME Competitive Lean Scheme (MCLS)
- System Manual
- System Procedure
- Policy
- Objectives
- Mission & Vision
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
- Checklist
- Forms
- Formats
- Records
The extent of Documented Information differs as per:
- Organization’s size
- Activities performed by the organization
- Processes undertaken by the Organization
- Products and services offered by the organization
- The complexity of processes undertaken
- Competence of persons involved
Role of Shamkris and Process of MSME Competitive Lean Scheme (MCLS)
Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain an accreditation body of success in addition to enhanced performance.
The implementation process is described below:
Time Frame
Task
Process
Day 1
GAP Analysis
Certification Body
Selection
Cost Estimates
- Finding the GAP between existing system related to (MCLS) Certificate requirements
- Selecting the appropriate certification Body
- Based on the scope of your business & certification Body you choose
Week 1
Developing Documents
- Management System Manual, Management System Procedures, Policy, Objectives, Forms etc.
- Review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
Week 4
Implementing Management System
- (MCLS) Certificate Awareness training for the top management and staff
- Implementing a well-documented management system throughout the organization
Week 8
Internal Audit
MRM
CAPA
- Internal audits identifying nonconformities related to (MCLS) Certificate requirements
- Management Review Meetings
- Corrective and Preventive Action plan for nonconformities
Week 10
Self Certification/NoBo
Audit
N-C Closing
- Shamkris acts on your behalf and assists you in the third-party audit
- Closing of any nonconformities identified by the certification Body
Week 12
Self Certification/NoBo
- Certificates issued under have a validity period as
- Initial Certification: Valid for One time Approval from the date of qualification.
- Surveillance Audits yearly
Year on Year
Yearly Compliance
- Support of Yearly documentation for audit
Who can issue the MSME Competitive Lean Scheme (MCLS)
FAQ
The MCLS is a government initiative by the Ministry of MSME to help Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) adopt lean manufacturing practices. It aims to improve productivity, reduce waste, and enhance competitiveness.
All manufacturing sector MSMEs registered with the UDYAM registration portal are eligible to apply.
Benefits include improved productivity, reduced waste, enhanced global competitiveness, financial assistance, capacity building, and access to lean manufacturing expertise.
MSMEs can apply through the official MSME portal or designated agencies by submitting the required documents and undergoing training and implementation processes.
Yes, the scheme provides financial assistance to MSMEs for implementing lean manufacturing techniques, covering training, consultancy, and other related expenses.
Lean manufacturing techniques include tools like 5S, Kaizen, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and Value Stream Mapping (VSM) to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.
The duration depends on the implementation of lean practices and the assessment process. It typically takes a few months after successful implementation and evaluation.
The scheme may have nominal fees for training or consultancy, but financial assistance is provided to offset these costs.
No, the scheme is specifically designed for manufacturing sector MSMEs registered under UDYAM.
Certified MSMEs can leverage the certificate to enhance their market credibility, attract investors, and compete in global markets while continuing to improve their processes.
Yes, the scheme offers capacity-building programs and training through lean manufacturing clusters and experts to help MSMEs adopt best practices.