Green Business Scheme

Green Business Scheme (हरित व्यवसाय योजना)

The Green Business Scheme, initiated by the National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), aims to provide vital financial support through loans for initiatives that address climate change while also generating income. This scheme is designed to empower individuals and encourage sustainable business practices across India.

Overview of the Scheme

The Green Business Scheme facilitates financial assistance specifically tailored for projects that can effectively combat climate change impacts and foster income generation. Activities eligible for funding under this scheme include those that help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions or fall under various adaptation strategies. Some examples of eligible projects include:

• Battery Electric Vehicles (E-rickshaws)
• Compressed Air Vehicles
• Solar Energy Gadgets
• Poly Houses

Loan Quantum

The scheme allows a loan of up to 90% of the project cost, with a maximum limit of ₹2 lakh. It should be noted that the loan amount will be adjusted based on any subsidies provided.

Promoters’ Contribution

Applicants are required to contribute a minimum of 10% of the total project cost.

Benefits of the Scheme

The National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC) extends need-based loans under this scheme, adhering to its Term Loan Lending Policy. The financial support takes into account the promoter’s contribution, along with any margin money from Special Central Assistance (SCA) and other government subsidies. The maximum possible benefit can be:

• Up to ₹10,000 or 50% of the unit cost for below poverty line (BPL) beneficiaries under the Central-Sector Scheme.

Interest Rates

Note: A rebate of 1% on the interest rate is available for female beneficiaries.

Repayment Details

Loans availed under this scheme must be repaid in quarterly installments over a maximum duration of 10 years, which includes a moratorium period of 6 months. Additionally, a grace period of 120 days is provided for the utilization of funds from the Special Central Assistance.

Eligibility Criteria

The following groups are eligible to apply for the Green Business Scheme:

• Safai Karamcharis
• Scavengers
• Dependents of Safai Karamcharis and Scavengers

Application Process

Applicants can apply through both offline and online methods:

Offline Application

Beneficiaries need to submit their loan applications to the District Offices of State Channelizing Agencies (SCAs) associated with NSFDC, or to branches of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and Nationalized Banks. The submitted applications will be scrutinized and forwarded to the Head Offices for further assessment. Project proposals that are deemed viable will be sent to the NSFDC along with recommendations.

Online Application

To apply online, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Visit the official website.
• Step 2: Click on the “How to Apply” section.
• Step 3: Locate and click on the Loan application form link.
• Step 4: Complete all required details and save the application form.

For further information, visit the official source at myScheme.gov.in.