Published: 11 February 2026PIB / NPC India / DD NewsEconomy
National Productivity Council Marks 68th Foundation Day; National Productivity Week 2026 Begins with MSME Cluster Theme
On February 12, 2026, the National Productivity Council (NPC) celebrated its 68th Foundation Day, marking the commencement of National Productivity Week 2026, observed from February 12 to 18 across the country. NPC was established in 1958 and functions under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
The theme for the 68th National Productivity Week is 'Clusters as Growth Engine: Maximizing Productivity in MSMEs'. This theme reflects the strategic emphasis on cluster-based industrial development to accelerate manufacturing competitiveness, foster inclusive economic growth, and strengthen India's integration into global value chains. Events were held through NPC's 12 Regional Directorates, 24 Local Productivity Councils, State Governments, and industry associations. The theme aligns with India's recently concluded trade agreements and the push to strengthen MSMEs — the backbone of India's economy employing over 11 crore people. For Rajasthan, the theme is particularly relevant given the state's vibrant MSME clusters in handicrafts (Jaipur), gems and jewellery (Jaipur), textiles (Bhilwara), ceramics (Bikaner), and marble (Kishangarh-Ajmer).
Mains angle
Q: The National Productivity Council's 2026 theme emphasises clusters as growth engines for MSMEs. Examine cluster-based industrial strategy for India and Rajasthan.
Answer (50 words):
NPC, established 1958 under DPIIT, marked its 68th Foundation Day on February 12, 2026, launching Productivity Week with theme 'Clusters as Growth Engine: Maximizing Productivity in MSMEs'. Twelve Regional Directorates and 24 Local Councils anchor delivery. MSMEs employ over 11 crore people. Rajasthan clusters include Jaipur jewellery, Bhilwara textiles, Kishangarh marble.
6-axis classification
CoverageNationalTypeCampaignSubjectEconomicExamBasic Computer Instructor · CET Graduation · CET Senior Secondary · EO/RO · LDC · Mahila Supervisor · Patwar · PTI · RAS · REET · RPSC SI · School Lecturer · Senior Computer Instructor · Senior Teacher · UPSC · Vanpal · BothSourcePIB / NPC India / DD News
Frequently asked questions
When was the National Productivity Council (NPC) established and under which ministry does it function?
NPC was established in 1958 and functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
What was the theme of National Productivity Week 2026 and when was it observed?
National Productivity Week 2026 was observed from February 12–18, 2026, under the theme 'Clusters as Growth Engine: Maximizing Productivity in MSMEs.'
Which international organisation is the National Productivity Council affiliated with?
NPC is affiliated with the Asian Productivity Organization (APO), an inter-governmental body for productivity promotion in the Asia-Pacific region.
How many MSME clusters does India have, and what is the significance of the cluster development approach?
India has over 6,000 MSME clusters. The cluster development approach focuses on geographically concentrated industry groups to boost collective efficiency and manufacturing competitiveness.
Which foundation day did the National Productivity Council celebrate on February 12, 2026?
NPC celebrated its 68th Foundation Day on February 12, 2026.
