India’s micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sector is witnessing a sharp digital transformation, with artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and workplace technologies emerging as key growth drivers, according to the Vi Business MSME Growth Insights Study 2026. The report found that 57 per cent of MSMEs now consider AI a vital tool for scaling operations, while 25 per cent have already integrated AI into business processes. Based on insights from more than 2.5 lakh MSMEs across 16 sectors through Vi Business’ ReadyForNext platform, the study showed India’s Digital Maturity Index (DMI) rising to 60.8 in 2026 from 58.0 last year. Nearly 46.3 per cent of enterprises have adopted cybersecurity solutions, while women-led businesses recorded a higher DMI of 61.6, surpassing male-led enterprises. The report also introduced Financial Readiness as the fourth assessment pillar to evaluate funding preparedness alongside Digital Customer, Digital Workplace and Digital Operations.
Sectorally, Financial Services emerged as the country’s most digitally mature industry, ahead of IT &ITeS, Transportation, Energy & Utilities and Tourism & Hospitality. Telangana and Karnataka retained the top positions among states, while Andhra Pradesh entered the top 10 for the first time. The study also noted that Digital Workplace has become the fastest-growing pillar, reflecting wider adoption of collaboration platforms, HRMS and productivity tools. Speaking on the findings, M P Sunil Kumar, Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Vodafone Idea Limited, said Indian MSMEs are steadily moving towards intelligent, secure and future-ready operations, with AI, cloud and cybersecurity investments helping businesses improve resilience and long-term competitiveness.
The findings are particularly relevant for Siliguri, a fast-growing commercial hub serving North Bengal and the Northeast. As local MSMEs expand across retail, tourism, logistics and services, rising adoption of AI, digital payments, cloud-based platforms and cybersecurity solutions is expected to enhance operational efficiency and customer engagement. The study also highlights opportunities for technology providers, financial institutions and digital service companies to support the next phase of MSME growth in the Siliguri market, where digital transformation is becoming increasingly important for business competitiveness.
