Scheme Of Assistance To Women Entrepreneurs (Mahalir Udavi)
By Pondicherry Industrial Promotion Development and Investment Corporation (PIPDIC)
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Quick Answer
Loan up to ₹15 lakh (75% of a ₹20 lakh project cost) from PIPDIC for women-led micro-enterprises in Puducherry, for fixed assets and working capital.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹15L
- Funding type
- Debt
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Puducherry
About this loan
Women entrepreneurs running new or existing micro-enterprises in Puducherry can borrow up to ₹15,00,000 for fixed assets and working capital. The loan covers at most 75% of the project cost, and the project cost must not exceed ₹20,00,000. PIPDIC runs the scheme with the Department of Industries & Commerce, Puducherry.
The unit must be promoted exclusively by women or have a majority of women entrepreneurs. Your contribution is 25% of the project cost and the Debt Equity Ratio (DER) is 3:1. Interest is 0.5% less than the normal rate, and the investigation fee is cut by 50%. Repayment runs up to 10 years, including a moratorium of up to 2 years.
Eligibility
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Grant providers
Provider
Pondicherry Industrial Promotion Development and Investment Corporation (PIPDIC)Puducherry · Puducherry · India
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹15L
- Fund type
- Debt
- Repayment
- Repayable
What You Get
The Mahalir Udavi scheme extends significant financial assistance, offering a loan up to ₹15,00,000/- (representing a maximum of 75% of the project cost, provided the total project cost does not exceed ₹20,00,000/-). This loan can be utilized for both acquiring fixed assets and meeting the critical working capital requirements for new or existing Micro Enterprises. Beneficiaries receive a concessional rate of interest, which is 0.5% less than the normal rate, making the funding more accessible and affordable. Additionally, a substantial 50% concession is provided on the investigation fee, further reducing the upfront costs for applicants. The scheme features a generous maximum term loan repayment period of 10 years, which includes a moratorium period of up to 2 years, offering crucial flexibility during the initial phase of business operations.
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications are primarily evaluated based on the project's technical and financial viability, the promoter's experience and financial standing, and strict adherence to the scheme's eligibility criteria. A comprehensive financial assessment will be conducted, covering the proposed project cost, the Debt-Equity Ratio (DER), and the adequacy of collateral security, all in line with PIPDIC's established lending policy. All submitted documents, including KYC details and promoter biodata, will undergo thorough verification. The final approval for the loan disbursement will be based on a holistic review and recommendation by the corporation's appraisal committee, ensuring that only robust and sustainable ventures receive support.
Application Process
- 1
Register & Create Profile
Create an account on the PIPDIC portal, verify email, and complete your profile with all required details.
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
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.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Program templates & documents
Files the program publishes for applicants — download these and apply in the prescribed format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum loan amount available under the Mahalir Udavi scheme?
The scheme offers financial assistance up to a maximum of 75% of the project cost, provided the total project cost does not exceed ₹20,00,000/-. This means the maximum loan amount an entrepreneur can receive is ₹15,00,000/-.
Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
The scheme is open to all new or existing Micro Enterprises and Small Scale Industry (SSI)/Tiny units promoted exclusively by women entrepreneurs or those with a majority ownership/leadership by women entrepreneurs in Puducherry.
What kind of expenses can the loan cover?
The loan can be utilized for acquiring fixed assets, such as machinery, land, and building, and/or for meeting the working capital requirements essential for the day-to-day operations of the new or existing Small Scale Industry Units or Micro Enterprises.
What are the repayment terms and moratorium period?
The maximum term loan repayment period is 10 years (120 months). This includes a moratorium period of up to 2 years (24 months), which is determined based on the project's implementation phase, offering financial relief during the startup phase.
Are there any specific promoter contributions or financial conditions required?
Yes, the promoter’s contribution must be a minimum of 25% of the total project cost. Additionally, the Debt Equity Ratio (DER) is stipulated at 3:1, indicating a structured approach to funding and financial stability.
What special concessions are available for women entrepreneurs?
Women entrepreneurs benefit from a concessional interest rate, which is 0.5% lower than the normal rate. They also receive a 50% concession on the investigation fee, and the value of immovable property required for collateral security is reduced and fixed at 50% of the loan amount.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
