New Delhi, Aug 22 (IANS): Asserting that the 'Zero Effect Zero Defect' policy as enunciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has gained a lot of attention, Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Kalraj Mishra said on Sunday that the setting up of MSMEs is necessary for the overall progress of the country.

"Today, the policy of 'Zero Effect, Zero Defect' (ZED) has gained a lot of attention and importance. Through its implementation, the manufacturing sector can thrive in the country," Mishra said here addressing the National Quality Conclave 2016.

"The ZED project is a boost to this vision. The establishment of small and medium enterprises is necessary for the Make in India campaign and for the overall progress of the country," he said.

Elaborating how manufacturing by MSMEs requires clearance on 20 parameters and the Zero Effect Zero Defect maturity model in association with the ISI gives certification to these enterprises, Mishra said that under the ZED maturity policy financial assistance is also given to the MSMEs.

"There are five levels on which they are rated - bronze, silver, gold, platinum and diamond. The financial help is different for these various levels," he said.

Inaugurating the event earlier, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha said the government has to work towards meeting the expectations and aspirations of the people.

"As we try and improve what we are doing in the delivery of public services, quality has to permeate everything and we have to continuously raise our standards so that we can meet the aspirations of our 125 crore citizens," Sinha said.