Goa (Subsidy to Clay Idol Makers) Scheme
By Directorate of Industries, Trade and Commerce, Government of Goa
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Quick Answer
Subsidy of ₹100 per clay idol, up to ₹15,000 a year, for registered traditional clay idol makers in Goa.
About this subsidy
Traditional clay idol makers in Goa who are registered with GHRSSIDC get a subsidy of ₹100 per idol, up to ₹15,000 per artisan each year. The Department of Industries, Government of Goa launched the scheme to revive the traditional cottage industry of clay idol making against cheaper alternatives like Plaster of Paris and polyfibre. It is implemented through the Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Limited (GHRSSIDC).
You must make the idols yourself in Goa, at a workshop or production unit in the state. Idols must be at least 1 foot in size. The subsidy is for idols used for religious purposes, not decorative items.
Eligibility
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Subsidy providers
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹15,000
What You Get
- Financial Support: Artisans receive a subsidy of ₹100/- per clay idol produced, with a minimum idol size of 1 foot. The maximum subsidy an artisan can receive is ₹15,000/- per year. This financial assistance helps offset production costs, supports raw material procurement, and ensures the sustainability of the traditional craft.
- Market Access: The scheme is applicable only for idols actually produced and sold within the State of Goa, thereby encouraging local commerce and strengthening the in-state market for traditional crafts.
- Formal Recognition & Support: Registration with GHRSSIDC provides formal recognition to artisans and facilitates ongoing access to government support, workshops, and marketing initiatives for the preservation and promotion of this cultural art form.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
After application submission, GHRSSIDC officials will conduct a physical inspection of the applicant’s workshop to verify their production capacity and perform a physical count of existing clay idols in the artisan’s presence. Subsequently, an Appraisal Committee, consisting of the Chairman, Managing Director, a nominated Director, and a Government representative, will review the applications and make approval decisions on a first-come, first-served basis.
Application Process
- 1
Obtain Application Form
Download the prescribed application format or purchase it from GHRSSIDC.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 2
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 3
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 4
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of the Goa (Subsidy to Clay Idol Makers) Scheme?
The scheme aims to revive the traditional Goan cottage industry of clay idol making and motivate local artisans by providing financial support through subsidies, addressing the decline due to competition from cheaper alternatives such as Plaster of Paris and polyfibre.
Who is eligible to apply for this subsidy?
Traditional clay idol makers or artisans from the State of Goa are eligible. Applicants must be registered with GHRSSIDC as a clay idol manufacturer, personally manufacture idols within Goa, and operate a workshop or production unit in Goa.
What is the subsidy amount provided per idol and the annual limit?
The scheme provides a subsidy of ₹100 per clay idol (minimum 1 foot size) and offers grants up to a maximum of ₹15,000 per artisan annually.
How is the subsidy disbursed to the beneficiaries?
Upon approval by the Appraisal Committee, the subsidy payment is issued via cheque in favour of the registered artisan. Disbursement occurs after GHRSSIDC receives the necessary funds from the Government. Beneficiaries are required to maintain sales records and submit utilization certificates for subsequent releases.
Are all types of idols eligible for the subsidy?
No, the subsidy is strictly applicable only for idols used for religious purposes, such as Ganesh, Durga, Saraswati, or Mother Mary for festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi or Christmas. Idols manufactured for decorative purposes are not eligible.
What documents are required for the application process?
Applicants must complete the prescribed application form, ensuring all mandatory fields are filled. Copies of all required documents must be attached and self-attested where necessary. Specific documents typically include proof of identity, address, GHRSSIDC registration, and workshop details.
