Government Schemes

The scheme “Kailash Mansarovar Yatra” is implemented by the Religious Trusts and Endowments Department, Government of Madhya Pradesh. The objective of this scheme is to provide financial assistance to the pilgrims of the state going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Such persons of Madhya Pradesh, who have completed the journey of Kailash Mansarovar after finding a place in the list of persons selected by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, they will have to present the certificate of the actual expenses incurred on the journey after the journey and the expenses incurred on such journey, 50% of the expenditure will be reimbursed by the State Government up to a maximum of ₹30,000/-. Eligibility The applicant should be a native of Rajasthan. The applicant must have completed the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after being selected by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Only individuals who have been selected by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, for the pilgrimage are eligible for the benefits of this scheme. The applicant should not be an income taxpayer. Each individual is eligible for the grant only once in their lifetime. Note 1: To avail of the benefits of this scheme, pilgrims must submit all documents detailing their actual expenses incurred during the journey.Note 2: If both husband and wife are selected for the pilgrimage, their eligibility for travel benefits will be as per the guidelines of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Documents Required Passport-size photograph Identity proof i.e. Aadhaar card Domicile certificate of Madhya Pradesh Details of expenditure incurred on the journey Copy of passport Certificate of completion of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Certificate regarding selection by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India Bank passbook/bank account details Any other required documents Application Process Eligible pilgrims should apply for financial assistance/grant using the prescribed form, along with records of their pilgrimage certified by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, to the concerned District Collector, Madhya Pradesh within 60 days of completing their pilgrimage. The office of the concerned Collector will disburse the grant amount after verifying the submitted records. FAQs How will the grant amount be disbursed? The grant amount will be disbursed by the office of the concerned District Collector after verifying the submitted records. How long do I have to apply for the financial assistance? Applicants must submit their application within 60 days of completing their pilgrimage.

National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) offers support and works for the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide. NSIC works under the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) for the promotion of these enterprises. NSIC offers Credit support to MSMEs with the help of three major credit facilities: Raw Material Assistance (RMA) against Bank Guarantee Credit Facilitation through Bank Bill Discounting Meaning of Bill Discounting Bill discounting is a short-term finance arrangement where the seller receives its amounts outstanding in advance (before the due date) from a bank or other financial institutions such as NBFCs, after deducting interest and other charges as a discount. At the end of the credit period, the seller needs to repay the bank. Interest Rate offered by Banks under NSIC Scheme With the objective to meet the credit needs of MSME units, the NSIC has signed an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with leading nationalized and private sector banks and non-banking financial institutions. Under this pivotal deal with the bank, NSIC enables MSME units to avail the credit support from the banks to successfully operate and manage their business venture. The interest rates levied on MSME loan varies from bank to bank, banks typically charge floating interest rates. Certain significant sectors play a crucial role in deciding the interest rates, including the credibility of the venture and present and future viability and stability. NSIC works with its wide network of branch offices and technical centers spread across the country. Its range of services includes financial assistance, core training, and incubation. NSIC offers integrated support services under finance, technology, marketing, and support services. The corporation also focuses on providing machinery on hire purchase basis and marketing in exports. Salient features of the NSIC Bill discounting scheme NSIC charges nominal interest (up to the usance period) and additional interest if the payment is not received within the usance period. Discount or Interest Rate up to credit or usance period: Normal Interest (% per annum) Micro (%) Small (%) Medium (%) For MSME units having SME 1 Rating 6.5 7 8 For MSME units having SME 2 Rating 7 7.5 8 Other Units 7.5 8 8 An additional rate of interest at the rate of 1.25% per quarter after the credit or usance period will be charged if the amount is not paid within that period.  This additional interest will be over and above the normal interest specified in the table above.  For all proposals sanctioned under this scheme, the following processing fee will be applicable: Processing Fees (% per annum) Micro (%) Small (%) Medium (%) Fresh sanction 1 1 1 Renewals 0.5 1 1 NSIC will also require security in the form of a bank or personal guarantee before it disburses the funds.  Bank guarantees must be equivalent to the value of assistance and issued by approved banks. The personal guarantee should include the guarantee of the proprietor, partner of firms or directors of the company. Eligibility Criteria MSMEs falling under the turnover ranging between Rs. 5 crores or more and up to Rs. 250 crore Enterprise in successful operation for the last 3 years Under collateral for cash credit loans, banks require comprehensive details of the business and its feasibility Past loan repayment record, if applicable Good CIBIL score Documents Photographs of each proprietor, partner or director. Statutory Certificates. Statement of personal assets and liabilities (self-attested). Copy of board resolution stating to deal with NSIC for financial assistance required. a. Last year’s audited financial statements.b. Provisional/current financial statements.c. Projected financial statements. Sanction letter issued by the bank for the credit limit. How to obtain NSIC Bill discounting facility? Amount of assistance/funds needed. Background details of the applicant (e.g. constitution, year of establishment). Statutory registration details (e.g. GST, PAN). Details of sister concern, if any. Details of proprietor, partners or director. Nature of business (e.g. product manufactured or services rendered). Details of order received from eligible seller unit. Security details (e.g. bank or personal guarantee FAQs What is the difference between NSIC and MSME? National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), is a certified enterprise of the Government of India that works under the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) that promotes the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India. Whereas, MSME is itself a sector that comprises numerous Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. What is an NSIC certificate? NSIC certificate or registration helps to promote MSMEs by offering Single Point Registration for Government purchase and credit rating scheme for small industries.

The “Coconut Palm Insurance Scheme (CPIS)” is being implemented by the Coconut Development Board, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India with the objective of insuring coconut palms against natural calamities, climatic risks, pests, diseases and other perils. Under this scheme, all healthy nut bearing coconut palms in the age group from 4 years to 60 years in a contiguous area (Mono/mixed) can be insured against natural perils leading to death/loss of palm/becoming unproductive. The scheme is being implemented in all coconut growing States through Agriculture Insurance Company and implementing State Governments. Objectives: Assist coconut growers in insuring coconut palms, against natural and other perils. Provide timely relief to farmers, who suffer income loss due to sudden death of palms. Minimize risk and encourage replanting and rejuvenation to make coconut farming remunerative. Applicability: The CPIS will be applicable to all healthy nuts bearing coconut palms; grown as mono or intercropped; on bunds farms or homestead and to all varieties of coconut, including Tall, Dwarf and Hybrids. Since, Dwarf and Hybrids begin to yield fruit from 4th year of planting, this variety of coconut palms in age range of 4-60 year will be covered under the scheme, but Tall variety coconut palms will be eligible for coverage for age range of 7-60 year. Unhealthy and senile palms will be excluded from coverage. Risks covered: The scheme covers following perils leading to death/loss of palm or palm becoming un-productive: Storm, hailstorm, cyclone typhoon, tornado, heavy rains. Flood and inundation. Pest and diseases of widespread nature causing, irreparable damages to palm. Accidental fire, including forest fire and bush fire, lightening. Earthquake, landslide and tsunami Severe drought and consequential total loss Objective of the Scheme Extend financial assistance to the coconut growers in insuring their coconut palms against the natural and climatic disasters. Help stabilise the income for the coconut growers, especially during the disastrous years. Ensure risk minimisation Encourage coconut palm replanting among the farmers Restore coconut farming Eligibility As per the Scheme, individual farmers/growers offering at least 5 healthy nuts-bearing palms for insurance in specified age groups, (4-60 years for dwarf, hybrid, and 7-60 years for tall) contiguous area/plots will be eligible for insurance. Note 01: Insurance is for individual palms and not area-based.Note 02: Partial insurance of the plantation is not allowed.Note 03: A minimum of 5 healthy nut-bearing palms is the criterion to come under the insurance scheme. Scope of cover: The scheme will cover all healthy palms within the insurable age group in areas/districts selected for implementation of the scheme. Partial insurance of plantations in contiguous areas is not allowed. Insurance coverage is from the 4th/7th year to the 60th year, and split into two age groups i.e. 4-15 years and 16-60 years, for fixing premium and sum insured. Self-declaration of age group by insured farmer/grower in insurance proposal will be acceptable. Insurance Company may get the insured palms verified for authenticity, at any time before expiry of the policy period or payment of the claim. Insurance becomes void in the event of a wrong declaration of age or any material fact by the insured, concerning insurance. Franchise: The claim is assessed only if a number of palms damaged, due to perils insured are in a contiguous area is more than the palms lost as shown for different slabs: Sl. No. No. of Insured Palms in a contiguous area Franchise (Palms lost) 1 < 30 1 2 31-100 2 3 >100 3 Waiting period: Loss/death of palms, within 30 days from inception of insurance, sum insured is not payable under the scheme, but this condition is not applicable in case of renewal of insurance, without time gap. Benefits Sum Insured & Premium: Under this scheme, 50% of the premium is borne by the Board and balance is shared between the State Government and Farmers @ 25% each, as below: Age group of Palms Premium per plant/year Board’s Share (50%) State Govt. Share (25%) Farmer’s Share (25%) Sum insured per palm 4-15 years ₹9 ₹4.50 ₹2.25 ₹2.25 ₹900/- 16-60 years ₹14 ₹7 ₹3.50 ₹3.50 ₹1750/- Premium Subsidy: Of amount under above, 50% will be paid by Coconut Development Board (CDB) and 25% by State Government concerned and balance 25% will be paid by farmer/grower. In case, the State government does not agrees to bear 25% share of premium, farmers/growers, will be required to pay 50% of premium, if interested in insurance scheme. In case some planters/growers’ association wishes to bear the premium on behalf of planters/growers, such associations may do so if they have ‘insurable interest’. In any case, the planters/ growers shall have to bear a minimum of 10% premium. Premium subsidy amount (50% by CDB and 25% by participating States) will be released to Insurance Company in advance based on estimates, which will be replenished / adjusted on quarter/year basis. Insurance Term: A policy can be issued for a maximum period of three years for which rebate in premium @7.5% for two year policy and 12.5% for three year policy will be provided to the planters/growers. Effort will be made to ensure that all eligible farmers/growers join the scheme by 31st March of year. However, those farmers/growers who do not join the scheme by 31st March may join the scheme subsequently, and in which case risk is covered from 1st day of succeeding month. Application Process Farmers/growers desiring insurance may directly contact representatives/authorized agents of the Insurance Company or may contact the nearest office of the Agriculture/Horticulture Department. Premium will be paid by farmer/grower, net off premium subsidy, through cash, cheque/bank draft, drawn in favour of Insurance Company. Claim assessment & settlement procedure: Loss of insured palms will be intimated by insured farmers to the insurance company within 15 (fifteen) days from the occurrence of peril, with all relevant details. The claims may also be intimated through concerned State Government Call Centers until the Implementing Agency (i.e. insurance company) sees up its own call centre. Loss assessment certification is required to be furnished by the Coconut Development Board (CDB)/Agriculture/Horticulture

The Rajasthan government, led by Bhajan Lal, aims to cater to the needs of the disadvantaged groups. Recently, the state government has announced a new scheme for disabled couples called the “Rajasthan Sukhad Dampatya Jeevan Yojana”. Under this scheme, the state government will provide financial support to disabled couples. As we have seen, there are several disabled couples who face numerous challenges in their daily life. Among these challenges, financial constraints are the foremost as they couldn’t secure a good job that met their financial needs. Scheme Introduction Summary of the Scheme Name of Scheme Rajasthan Sukhad Dampatya Jeevan Yojana Launched Year 2024 Benefits Grant of Rs 50,000/- and Rs 5 lakhs. Beneficiaries Disabled Couples of Rajasthan Scheme Benefits A grant of Rs 5 lakh for couples with a disability of more than 80% . A grant of Rs 50,000/- to couples with a disability of more than 40% and less than 80%. Eligibility Must be a domiciled resident of Rajasthan. Either both or one partner have a disability. The disability must be at least 40%. State or central government employees are not eligible to apply. Family annual income should not exceeds 2.5 lakhs from all sources. Not receiving similar benefits from other schemes. Required Documents Janaadhaar Certificate. Disability Certificate. Marriage Certificate (must be six month old from the date of application) Birth Certificate. Income Certificate. Affidavit from parents. Affidavit of not receiving grant money in the past. Bank passbook. Passport Photo. Mobile Number. Apply Through SSO Portal First, applicants need to visit the Rajasthan SSO Portal. Now, login with your registered details (new applicants need to register first). Once logged in, select the “SJMS DSAP” button. From the options, select the “Rajasthan Sukhad Dampatya Jeevan Yojana”. Enter your Janaadhar Number. Select the relevant family member from the list appeared. Enter the OTP sent to your Janaadhar registered mobile number. Confirm the OTP AND proceed with the details required. Review the submitted details before final submission. After submission, a confirmation message will be sent to your mobile through SMS. The concerned department will verify the documents and authenticity of the received applications. Thereafter, the shortlisted applications will receive the benefits via DBT mode. Through E-Mitra Centres First, applicants need to visit the nearest E-Mitra Centre. Now, request the representative to fill out the application form for Rajasthan Sukhad Dampatya Jeevan Yojana. Provide the necessary details and documents to the representative. Once the application form is submitted, you will receive a confirmation on your registered mobile number. Submitted application will be verified by the concerned department. Successfully verified applicants will be notified via SMS. Once verified, applicants will receive the scheme benefits directly into their bank account through DBT mode. FAQs What is the Rajasthan Sukhad Dampatya Jeevan Yojana? The Rajasthan Sukhad Dampatya Jeevan Yojana is a welfare scheme introduced by the Government of Rajasthan to support married couples from economically weaker sections. The scheme aims to improve the well-being of couples by providing financial assistance and promoting a healthy and supportive marital life. What benefits does the Sukhad Dampatya Jeevan Yojana provide? Under the scheme, eligible couples receive a financial grant aimed at supporting their living expenses and encouraging a stable marital life. This grant may also cover healthcare support and other benefits that contribute to the couple’s welfare.

PM Vishwakarma is a Central Sector Scheme launched by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to provide holistic and end-to-end support to artisans and craftspeople through access to collateral free credit, skill training, modern tools, incentive for digital transactions and market linkage support. The scheme will initially be implemented for five years up to 2027-28. Objectives To enable the recognition of artisans and craftspeople as Vishwakarma making them eligible to avail all the benefits under the Scheme. To provide skill upgradation to hone their skills and make relevant and suitable training opportunities available to them. To provide support for better and modern tools to enhance their capability, productivity, and quality of products. To provide the intended beneficiaries easy access to collateral-free credit and reduce the cost of credit by providing interest subvention. To provide incentives for digital transactions to encourage the digital empowerment of these Vishwakarmas. To provide a platform for brand promotion and market linkages to help them access new opportunities for growth. Implementing Agency The scheme is conjointly implemented by the following Ministries/Departments: Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME). Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance (MoF). Benefits Recognition: Recognition as Vishwakarma through Certificate and ID Card Skilling: Skill Verification followed by 5-7 days (40 hours) of Basic Training Interested candidates can also enrol for 15 days (120 hours) of Advanced Training Training Stipend: ₹ 500 per day Toolkit Incentive: ₹ 15,000 grant Credit Support: Collateral-free Enterprise Development Loans: ₹ 1,00,000 (First Tranche for 18 months repayment) & ₹ 2,00,000 (Second Tranche for 30 months repayment) Concessional Rate of Interest: 5% to be charged from the beneficiary with an Interest Subvention cap of 8% to be paid by MoMSME Credit Guarantee fees to be borne by GoI Incentive for Digital Transaction: ₹ 1 per transaction for a maximum of up to 100 transactions (monthly) Marketing Support: The National Committee for Marketing (NCM) will provide services such as Quality Certification, Branding and Promotion, e-commerce Linkage, Trade Fair Advertising, Publicity and Other Marketing Activities. Documents Required Aadhaar, Mobile number, Bank details, Ration card mandatory for the registration. Application Process The eligible beneficiaries are required to get themselves enrolled through nearest CSC in their area.(ii) The beneficiary can apply either on their own or with the help of the CSCs through Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) or Enumerators. Registration:Step 1: Visit the Official Portal of “PM Vishwakarma” and on the top right corner, click “Login”. Then click “CSC – Register Artisans”. You will be taken to the Registration.Step 2: On the “Registration Now” Page, answer the Set of Questions as Yes/No, and click “Continue”. On the “Aadhaar Verification” Page, enter the 6-digit OTP received on your Aadhaar-linked Mobile Number. Click “Continue”. On the next page, enter your Aadhaar Number and the Aadhaar Registered Mobile Number. Click “Continue”. Application:Step 1: Visit your nearest CSC and complete the Biometric Verification Process.Step 2: In the Online Application Form, fill in all the mandatory details, and click “Submit”. In the next screen, note down the “Application Number” for future reference. Click “Done”. Verification:Stage 1: Verification of Eligibility at Gram Panchayat or ULB level.Stage 2: Vetting and Recommendation of the Applications by the District Implementation Committee.Stage 3: The Screening Committee will accord final approval of the beneficiaries for registration after satisfying itself as to their eligibility. Benefit Disbursal:After a successful three-step verification, the artisans and craftspeople will formally register under this Scheme as Vishwakarmas. They will receive a Digital ID, a PM Vishwakarma Digital Certificate and a PM Vishwakarma ID Card. The certificate will enable the applicants’ recognition as a Vishwakarma, making them eligible to avail of all the benefits under the Scheme. FAQs Which category of trades are covered in the scheme? Carpenter (Suthar), Boat Maker, Armourer, Blacksmith (Lohar), Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Locksmith, Goldsmith (Sunar), Potter (Kumhaar), Sculptor (Moortikar)/ stone carver / Stone breaker, Cobbler (Charmkar)/ Shoesmith/ Footwear artisan, Mason (Raajmistri), Basket Maker/ Basket Waver: Mat maker/ Coir Weaver/ Broom maker, Doll & Toy Maker (Traditional), Barber (Naai), Garland Maker (Malakaar), Washerman (Dhobi), Tailor (Darzi) and Fishing Net Maker. What are the key components of PM Vishwakarma? The key components of PM Vishwakarma Scheme are: 1. Recognition: PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card 2. Skill Upgradation 3. Toolkit Incentive 4. Credit Support 5. Incentive for Digital Transactions 6. Marketing Support

The Rajasthan government has started a scheme for its residents wishing to go on the Sindhu Darshan pilgrimage. The scheme announced is called as “Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana”. The Sindhu Darshan festival is usually held every year in the month of June on the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima at Leh Ladakh. A large number of pilgrims from far and wide including Rajasthan often visit this yatra to participate in it. The Rajasthan government started this initiative to provide assistance to these pilgrims. Under the Scheme, the beneficiaries who have completed the pilgrimage will receive a grant of 50% of the total expense incurred during the journey. It means, a beneficiary can avail maximum of Rs 10,000/- under the Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana. Benefits of the scheme will be provided once the beneficiary has completed their pilgrimage. The scheme is also known by other names such as “Rajasthan Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Scheme” or “Sindhu Darshan Yatra Yojana” or “Sindhu Darshan Tirthyatra Yojana”. Scheme Benefits Beneficiaries will receive 50% or maximum 10,000/- reimbursement of expenses during the journey. The grant amount will be credited to the applicants bank account through DBT mode. A maximum of 200 people will receive the scheme’s benefits. If the number of applications exceeds 200, applicants will be shortlisted through the lottery system. Eligibility Requirement Applicants must be domiciled residents of Rajasthan. The minimum age of the applicants should be 21 years. (as of 1 April 2024) Ineligibility Requirement Applicants in any of the categories listed below are not entitle to receive benefits under the Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana : – If anyone earn a livelihood through begging. If beneficiary is a tax payer. Employees or retired pensioners of the central or state government. Required Documents Domicile Certificate of Rajasthan. Janaadhaar Card. Proof of expenses during the journey. Travel Certificate, verified by a registered trust or constituted committee of a government department/society located in Ladakh. Applicants photograph clicked at the Sindh Ghat on Singh River. Photocopy of the inner line permit issued by the officials at Khardungla Paas. Bank Passbook. Applicants photograph. Application Process Online Application Process Beneficiaries can submit their Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana Applications online. Online Application forms for Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana are available at Devasthan Department of Rajasthan. Select the application link from the home page. Enter the details in the Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra application form. Upload the requisite documents and submit the form. Submitted application form and documents will be verified by the officials. If the number of applications exceeds 200, applicants will be selected through an online lottery system. Scheme benefits will be credited to the applicant’s bank account. Offline Application Process Applicants can also submit their Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana Applications offline. Beneficiaries can obtain the Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana application form from its official website or department office. Read the application form and enter the details carefully. Affix all the relevant documents in the completed application form. Submit this duly filled in application at the Department office. The last date to submit Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra application form is 31 December 2024. FAQs What is the Rajasthan Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana? The Rajasthan Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Yojana is a government initiative by the Rajasthan state government aimed at facilitating pilgrimage tours to the Sindhu River in Leh, Ladakh. The scheme is part of the government’s efforts to support religious tourism and allow Rajasthani pilgrims to visit significant religious and cultural sites. Is there a specific age limit to apply for this yatra? The age limit may vary, but the scheme usually prioritizes senior citizens, especially those above the age of 60. However, the exact age requirements can be confirmed from official sources or government notifications.

Establishing businesses is important for a country’s progress as it augments economic and employment growth. State and central governments are continuously launching new and attractive schemes to encourage their citizens to come up with innovative business ideas. Setting up an enterprise depends on one’s capacity, which differs from person to person. If the enterprise must come up in a rural environment, the dynamics are more complex compared to the urban context. Rural enterprises are business entities, which by the means of effective use of local resources, promote revenue generation and act as agents of social change at the grassroots level. These entities not only play a pivotal role in the wholistic development of the rural economy but also contribute to the economic growth of our nation. The establishment of a large number of profitable enterprises in a region can bring in government investment, attract private participation, generate local employment, bring partnerships and secure funding apart from channelising idle savings into business entities. According to the Government of India, “Any industry located in a rural area, village or town with a population of 20,000 or below and an investment of INR three crores in plant and machinery is classified as a village industry.” It is a revised definition of the previous one provided by Khadi & Village Industries Commission.As of March 31, 2022, India has more than 63 million MSMEs, out of which about 94 per cent are micro-enterprises. According to official data released on April 30, 2022, the country’s 6.33 crore MSMEs employ about 12 crore workers. According to World Bank Data 2019, about 65 per cent of the Indian population, most of them (about 58 per cent, as per 2018-19 PLFS data) earn their livelihood from agriculture and allied sectors. Objective of Rural Entrepreneurship Development Programme The Rural Entrepreneurship Development Programme aims to develop entrepreneurial and activity-oriented skills among the unemployed rural youths willing to create small or micro-enterprises by assisting agencies and NGOs involved in the conducting of Entrepreneurship Development Programs. Hence, the Rural Entrepreneurship Development Programme indirectly supports entrepreneurs through various agencies and NGOs. Challenges faced by rural entrepreneurs While India has marginally improved its ranking in terms of the ease of doing business index, the challenges and concerns faced by rural entrepreneurs in running and scaling their enterprises persist.The concerns range from the prevalent societal and gender-based biases to a lack of understanding of business, entrepreneurship and access to the requisite skills essential to run such enterprises. The entrepreneurs who have the courage to work on a business idea often face challenges in understanding the needs of the market, the viability of their product and its suitability for manufacture.Furthermore, those enterprises who manage to establish themselves in the market and generate some early-stage revenue often face difficulties. These range from inconsistent market linkages, severe competition from urban markets, a lack of infrastructural facilities and logistical challenges, inadequate understanding of the government support mechanisms available for them to unskilled labour for the effective delivery of product/service.Other challenges include the availability of working capital, the adoption to technology and the inability to diversify their products range. Rural Entrepreneurship Development Programs REDPs are conducted for a certain skill and unemployed rural youth are trained in these programs. The trainee has to be in the age limit of 18 and 50 years. Training period could differ from a minimum period of 4 weeks to a maximum period of eight weeks. Each program would support about 25-30 participants. Programs are held with the support of NGOs and the NGOs must be a registered and with a minimum experience of 3 years. Programs could be residential or non-residential. The NGO must have essential infrastructure, faculty support of their own or invite guest faculty. Pre-Training Phase In the pre-training phase, a detailed survey is done for identifying prospective business activities or market. Then publicity, awareness and motivational campaign are conducted for Entrepreneurship development in coordination with Banks or Government Departments or other NGOs. Training Phase Entrepreneurship Development Programs are typically 6-8 weeks long. Training module comprises the following: Achievement motivation Opportunity identification and guidance Knowledge related to supporting agencies and schemes Preparation of project reports/profiles Management of resources (men, material, money) Marketing aspects Book-keeping/Accounting The training program would include case-studies on prospective activities, field visits, practical work, visit to thriving units, etc.,  Post-Training Post training, the program endeavours to facilitate in the hand-holding or syndication of bank loan or creation of the MSME unit for a period of a minimum of 2 years. Recovery roadmap India has made tremendous progress towards creating a new business environment for enabling an increased participation of stakeholders in the workforce via enterprise creation. However, acceleration of these numbers is possible through the introduction of some key models, such as a marketing cooperative to promote products manufactured by rural enterprises thereby eliminating middlemen. The establishment of common facility centres, particularly for production, can also boost rural entrepreneurship. Building business acumen through capacity building and training is crucial for entrepreneurial success. It, coupled with an access to financial linkages at concessional interest rates, flexible repayment options and waiving of collateral security will spur the growth in this sector. FAQs What is the Rural Entrepreneurship Development Program (REDP)? The Rural Entrepreneurship Development Program (REDP) is an initiative aimed at promoting entrepreneurship in rural areas. It provides training, resources, and support to rural individuals to help them establish and sustain small businesses, encouraging economic growth and employment in rural communities. Who implements the REDP? REDP is typically implemented by various government agencies, financial institutions, NGOs, and organizations focused on rural development. In India, the program is often supported by institutions like the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and other rural development bodies.

Taxation plays a vital role in the economy and makes a significant contribution to it. In India, the tax structure encompasses different types of taxes and duties like excise duty. To streamline the process of paying taxes and claiming returns, it is essential for individuals whose income comes under a taxable bracket to become familiar with the different types of taxes and duties.  What is Excise Duty? Excise duty is a kind of indirect tax charged on the sale of certain products. The customer does not pay excise duty directly to the authorities, but it is added to the cost of the product by the producer or merchant and then passed on to the consumer by way of increased prices. The Excise Duty Act, 1944 governs the regulations related to excise duty in India and the tax is administered by the Central Board of Excise and Customs. Fundamentally, excise duty is a tax levied on domestically produced goods. Generally, it is charged on their production and sale and is also known as CENVAT or Central Value Added Tax. Central Excise duty is an indirect form of taxation and is collected from a customer by a retailer or an intermediary. It is paid when goods are transferred from the production unit to a warehouse.  This particular tax is governed by two sets of acts – Central Excise Act, 1944 and Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. Ideally, the Central Board of Excise and Customs is responsible for the collection of excise duty.  With the introduction of GST, several indirect taxes have been subsumed, including excise tax. Nonetheless, it is still applicable to a few items like petroleum, liquor, etc.  Types of Excise Duty Basic Excise Duty: Basic Excise Duty is levied under Section 3 of the Central Excises and Salt Act, 1944. Under this section, all excisable products apart from salt, manufactured of produced in India, are subject to Basic Excise Duty. Central Value Added Tax or CENVAT, as it is also called, is charged at the rates mentioned in the Central Excise Tariff Act. Special Excise Duty: Central Excise Duty is charged under Section 37 of the Finance Act, 1978. It is levied on all excisable products that are subject to Basic Excise Duty under Section 3 of the Central Excises and Salt Act, 1944. The rate at which Special Excise Duty is charged is mentioned in the Second Schedule to Central Excise Tariff Act, 1985. Education Cess on Excise Duty: According to Section 93 of Finance (No. 2) Act, 2004, Education Cess is an excise duty that must be computed on the aggregate of all excise duties including special excise duty or other excise duties, but not including Education Cess of excisable goods. Natural Calamity Contingent Duty: Section 136 of the Finance Act, 2001, has imposed the Natural Calamity Contingent Duty under clause 129 of the Finance Bill, 2001. The Natural Calamity Contingent Duty is charged on cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and pan masala. Excise Duty in case of clearances by Export Oriented Units: The Export Oriented Units have an obligation to export all the goods produced by them. However, if their final product is cleared in a domestic tariff area, the rate at which excise duty is charged will be the same as customs duty on a similar article if imported in India. Duties under other Acts: Certain duties as well as cesses are charged on manufactured goods under other Acts. The taxes, however, are collected under the administrative machinery of central excise. The rules and provisions of the Central Excise Act are responsible for the levy as well as collection of these duties and/or cesses/ Additional Duty on Goods of Special Importance: Additional Excise under Additional Duties of Excise (Goods of Special Importance) Act, 1957 is levied on certain goods of special importance. The ‘Additional Duty’ is charged along with excise duty. The Additional Duty on Goods of Special Importance scheme was implemented due to the suggestions made to the Government by manufacturers. The suggestions were made to avoid multiple taxes and duties at different levels. The levy of all taxes as well as their collection at one stage by one authority was expected to make it convenient to not only pay the tax, but to also administer it. Therefore, the Central and State Governments agreed to charge additional duty on certain items instead of charging sales tax. The additional duty was distributed among different states, and the State Government share the revenue from this duty based on the percentages specified in the second schedule of the Act. Additional Customs Duty commonly known as Countervailing Duty (CVD): This duty is charged on imports. Additional Duty on Mineral Products: Under the Mineral Products (Additional Duties of Excise and Customs) Act, 1958, additional duty must be paid on mineral products such as motor spirit, furnace oil, diesel and kerosene. Duty on Medical and Toilet Preparations: Under the Medical and Toilet Preparations (Excise Duties) Act, 1955, excise duty is charged on medical preparations. Special Additional Duty of Customs: Special Additional Duty of Customs is charged on items that are bound under the Information Technology Agreement (apart from information technology software), and also on certain raw materials or inputs for the manufacture of IT or electronic products. When Should You Pay Excise Duty Excise duty must be paid at the time the items are removed. Assessees must pay excise duty on items manufactured or produced. Excise duty should be paid on the fifth day of the following month from the date the products were taken from the warehouse or factory for the purpose of sale, according to Rule no. 8 of the Central Excise (Amendment) Rules, 2002.  If excise duty is paid online through netbanking, the payment is due on the sixth day of the next month. If the payment is paid in March, it must be made by March 31. Differences between Custom Duty and Excise Duty These pointers below highlight differences between custom duty and excise duty – Parameters  Excise Duty Custom Duty Place of manufacture  It is levied on goods that are produced in India. It is levied on goods

Kanyashree Prakalpa seeks to improve the status and well-being of girls, specifically those from socio-economically disadvantaged families through Conditional Cash Transfers by:Incentivizing them to continue in education for a longer period, and complete secondary or higher secondary education, or equivalent in technical or vocational steams, thereby giving them a better footing in both the economic and social spheres.Disincentivizing marriage till at least the age of 18, the legal age of marriage, thereby reducing the risks of early pregnancies, associated risks of maternal and child mortality, and other debilitating health conditions, including that malnutrition.It was also decided that the Scheme should confer more than just monetary support; it should be a means of financial inclusion and a tool of empowerment for adolescent girls. The scheme’s benefits are therefore paid directly to bank accounts in the girls’ names, leaving the decision of utilizing the money in their hands.To reinforce the positive impact of increased education and delayed marriages, the scheme also works to enhance the social power and self-esteem of girls through a targeted behavior change communication strategy. The communication strategy not only builds awareness of the scheme, but includes adolescent-friendly approaches like events, competitions, and Kanyashree clubs, and the endorsement of strong women figures as role models to promote social and psychological empowerment.As more and more girls remain in school, it is envisaged that they will use the opportunity to gain skills and knowledge to help them become economically independent. Even if girls do get married soon after they turn 18, it is expected that their education and enhanced social and emotional development will give them a better foundation for their adult lives. And over time, as entire generations of women enter marriages only after they have some degree of economic independence, it is expected that the practice of child marriage will be completely eradicated. Women will attain their right to health, education, and socio-economic equality. What is Kanyashree Prakalpa Scheme? West Bengal Kanyashree Prakalpa is a conditional cash transfer scheme launched by the Government of West Bengal in 2013. The scheme aims to empower and support the education of girl students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in the state. Under the Kanyashree Prakalpa Scheme, girls between the ages of 13 and 18 receive an annual scholarship, known as the Kanyashree scholarship, to support their educational expenses.  Additionally, there is a one-time grant called the Kanyashree K2, which is provided to girls when they turn 18 years of age, provided they are unmarried and have continued their education. What are the Features of the Kanyashree Prakalpa Scheme? The scheme has two main financial components: Kanyashree Bond: A one-time grant of Rs. 25,000 to unmarried girls of 18 years of age who are pursuing regular education or vocational/ sports training. Annual Scholarship: An annual scholarship of Rs. 1,000 to unmarried girls aged 13-18 years who are enrolled in Class 8 or above.   Income Criteria: The scheme is open to girls from families with an annual income of less than Rs. 1.2 lakhs. The capping on annual income is not applicable for girls who have lost both parents, are physically challenged (40% disability), or are inmates of a J.J. Home under the J.J. Act, 2000. Discouragement of child marriage: The scheme also discourages child marriage by providing a one-time grant of Rs. 25,000 for higher education to girls who remain unmarried until they are 18 years old. Awareness and Outreach: Kanyashree Prakalpa involves the establishment of Kanyashree clubs in schools and colleges to engage students in discussions and activities related to gender equality and education. Collaboration with Other Programs: To maximize its impact, the Kanyashree Prakalpa scheme collaborates with various existing government programs, like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) and the National Health Mission, to address issues related to sanitation, health, and hygiene. Beneficiaries: Approximately 18 lakh (1.8 million) girl students receive an annual scholarship, and approximately 3.5 lakh (0.35 million) girls receive a one-time grant of Rs. 25,000 each year under Kanyashree Prakalpa. Eligibility Age limit: Girls between the ages of 13 and 18 years are eligible for the scheme. Girls who have already turned 18 years of age are eligible to apply for the one-time grant under the scheme. Annual income limit: The scheme applies to girls from families with an annual income of up to Rs. 1.2 lakhs. The income of the girl’s parents or guardians will be taken into consideration while determining eligibility for the scheme. Educational criteria: Girls who are studying in classes 8 to 12 in government-aided or recognized schools are eligible to apply for the annual scholarship provided under the scheme. Marital status: Unmarried Girls are eligible to apply for the one-time grant provided under the scheme. Girls who are already married are not eligible for the scheme. Citizenship: The scheme applies only to girls who are residents of West Bengal and studying in schools or colleges in the state.  Documents Required Age proof document – a copy of the birth certificate A statement of declaration of being unmarried Income certificate Certificate of enrolment and attendance by Head of Institution of Education or Training Copy of certificate of disability (for disabled girls) Photocopy of bank passbook Kanyashree Prakalpa Scheme Application Procedure Step 1: Eligible girl student has to collect the application form from the respective educational institution. Step 2: Fill the following details to get the scholarship Personal Details Address Educational Institution Address Step 3: The applicant should sign on the application form and also get their parent’s signature. Apply along with documents to the respective educational institution. Step 4: Head of Department will verify the details furnished by the students and put an official stamp. Step 5: Obtain acknowledgement slip and keep application number for future reference. Step 6: After the successful submission of the application form, all details will be uploaded on the official webpage of Kanyashree.

This scheme, launched by the Rajasthan Government’s Labor Department, is designed to alleviate the financial burden of visa expenses for construction workers seeking employment abroad. By reimbursing these costs, the scheme aims to encourage construction workers to pursue overseas employment opportunities and contribute to the state’s economy through foreign remittances. About Construction workers go abroad to work to improve their financial condition. Due to lack of much income, they have to face visa and other difficulties to work abroad. To solve these problems, the Rajasthan government has started the Visa Expense Reimbursement Scheme for employment abroad to Rajasthan construction workers. The objective of the scheme is to increase the income of construction workers and provide them an opportunity to work abroad. Rajasthan Visa Expense Reimbursement Scheme for Abroad Employment to Construction Workers is also known as Visa Expense Reimbursement Scheme for Abroad Employment to Construction Workers. Benefits of the scheme The beneficiary will be reimbursed an amount up to a maximum of Rs. 5,000/- for expenses incurred on visa for employment abroad. The expenses will be reimbursed to the beneficiary by the Board. Eligibility The applicant must be a native of Rajasthan. The applicant must be registered with the Board. The applicant should be continuously contributing to the Board. The applicant must have obtained permission from the Office of the Protector of Emigrants for employment. Applicants who are engaged in future planning building and other construction work abroad are eligible. Required Documents Proof of residence in Rajasthan/permanent certificate. Certificate of being a registered building worker. Visa. Visa receipt. Bhamashah card. Aadhar card. Passport. Jan Aadhar Card. Bank account information. Appointment letter. Proof of advertisement given by the recruiting agency. Passport size photo of the applicant. Registration number of the recruiting agency. Proof of contract for employment. Mobile number. email id. Application Process Step-1: Applicant have to visit the official portal. Step-2: Click on the option “Register”.Step-3: Then you will be redirected to the SSO registration page. The registration page will appear with the following options. Citizen Step-4: Choose the either one option from the Jan Aadhaar Or Google to process further. Jan Aadhaar : Enter the Jan Aadhaar number, click on the ‘Next’ button, Select your name, the name of the head of the family and all the other members and Click on the ‘Send OTP’ button. Enter the ‘OTP’ and Click on the ‘Verify OTP’ button to Complete the registration. Google : Enter the Gmail ID, click on the ‘Next’ button, Enter the password. A new link appear on screen, now click on new SSO link. SSO id will appear on screen, now create the password. Enter Mobile number, click on registration. FAQs Is there any time limits for submit the application? The beneficiary will have to submit the application form within a maximum period of 3 months after obtaining the validity of the visa. Can applicants from outside Rajasthan apply for the scheme? No, this is only Madhya Pradesh construction worker.