Micro Credit Finance
By National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC)
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Quick Answer
A Maharashtra government scheme offering financial support up to ₹50,000 (loan + subsidy) to economically disadvantaged Charmakars for income-generating activities in footwear and leather production.
- Funding amount
- ₹25,000 – ₹50,000
- Funding type
- Debt
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- Maharashtra
About this loan
The Micro Credit Finance scheme, implemented by the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance of the Government of Maharashtra and funded by the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), aims to significantly improve the lifestyle of economically disadvantaged individuals belonging to the Charmakar community (including Dhor, Chambhar, Holar, Mochi, etc.) who live below the poverty line. This critical initiative is designed to foster their educational, economic, and social advancement, helping them achieve a respectable position in society. A key focus is on stimulating the production of diverse footwear and leather articles, targeting both government supply contracts and broader open market sales, thereby creating sustainable livelihoods and promoting entrepreneurship within the community.
Eligibility
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Grant providers
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹25,000 – ₹50,000
- Fund type
- Debt
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Repayable
What You Get
The scheme provides substantial financial support for eligible individuals to kickstart or expand their income-generating activities. Beneficiaries can receive financial assistance ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000, structured as a loan. This loan comes with a remarkably low annual interest rate of 5%, designed to ensure affordability and ease of repayment. Additionally, a significant ₹10,000 subsidy is provided, directly reducing the financial burden and enhancing the viability of their entrepreneurial ventures, specifically in footwear and leather article production.
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications submitted to the District Office of LIDCOM will undergo a verification process. Authorities will review the submitted forms and documents to ensure all eligibility criteria are met, including community affiliation, age, residency, BPL status, and business knowledge. Further details on evaluation committees or interview rounds are not explicitly provided.
Application Process
- 1
Visit LIDCOM Office
Visit the District Office of LIDCOM during office hours to obtain the application form.
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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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Micro Credit Finance scheme?
The scheme is open to individuals from the Charmakar community (including Dhor, Chambhar, Holar, Mochi, etc.) who are permanent residents of Maharashtra, aged 18-50 years, and belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category. Applicants must also possess relevant business knowledge.
What financial support is provided under this scheme?
Eligible applicants can receive financial assistance ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000. This includes a loan component with a low 5% annual interest rate and a subsidy of ₹10,000 to ease the financial burden.
How do I apply for the Micro Credit Finance scheme?
The application process is offline. You need to visit the District Office of LIDCOM during office hours, request the prescribed application form, fill it out with mandatory details, attach self-attested copies of required documents (including Income and Caste Certificates), and submit it to the concerned authority. Remember to obtain a submission receipt.
What are the income criteria for eligibility?
For the 50% Subsidy Scheme and Margin Money, your annual income must be below the poverty line. Specifically for the NSFDC Scheme, the annual income cap is ₹98,000 for rural areas and ₹1,20,000 for urban areas.
Is there a specific business focus for this scheme?
Yes, the scheme primarily aims to promote the production of various footwear and leather articles, enabling beneficiaries to supply to government and sell in the open market.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
