Kalamassery: The MSME–Development Office, Thrissur, in association with the Kerala Institute of Entrepreneurship Development (KIED), successfully organised a five-day Management Development Programme (MDP) on “Legal Compliance Essentials for MSMEs” at KIED, Kalamassery, from December 15 to December 19, 2025.
The programme was designed to equip Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises with essential legal and regulatory knowledge crucial for sustainable and compliant business operations. It commenced on December 15 with an introductory session and a comprehensive overview of the MSME sector in Kerala, highlighting mandatory registrations, licences and statutory requirements.
Afternoon sessions focused on core legal compliances, including drafting and managing business contracts, handling legal notices and understanding dispute resolution mechanisms. Participants also gained insights into different legal structures of business entities such as Proprietorships, Partnerships, Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) and Private Limited Companies.
A key highlight of the programme was the session on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), where participants were introduced to trademarks, patents and copyrights, along with simplified procedures for filing and protecting intellectual property. The training also covered GST registration, critical tax compliance requirements, essential insurance coverage for MSMEs, and quality certifications such as BIS and ISO standards.
The programme concluded on December 19 with detailed discussions on Labour Laws, HR compliances and digital compliance requirements, enabling participants to better manage workforce-related and technology-driven regulatory obligations.
The valedictory function was presided over by Shri Saji S, CEO & Executive Director, KIED, who encouraged participants to actively leverage the various government support schemes available for entrepreneurs. The valedictory address was delivered by the Guest of Honour, Shri Tom Thomas, President, KSSIA Ernakulam District, who shared his entrepreneurial journey and emphasised the vital role of legal compliance in business success.
Participants shared positive feedback during the valedictory session, reflecting the programme’s practical relevance and impact. Twenty-seven participants successfully completed the course, marking another significant step in strengthening the legal awareness and compliance readiness of MSMEs in Kerala.
