Green Business Scheme: Your Path to a Sustainable Future
Introduction
Welcome to the Green Business Scheme! This initiative by the National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC) is designed to support and empower Safai Karamcharis, scavengers, and their families. Our goal is to help you transition to greener, more sustainable technologies with financial support for projects that benefit both the environment and your community.
What is the Green Business Scheme?
The Green Business Scheme is a financial support program aimed at promoting eco-friendly business practices. Launched by NSKFDC, it provides loans to help you invest in sustainable technologies such as:
- Battery Electric Vehicles (E-Rickshaws): Eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fuel-powered vehicles.
- Compressed Air Vehicles: Innovative vehicles that use compressed air for a cleaner ride.
- Solar Energy Gadgets: Devices that harness solar power to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources.
- Polyhouses: Structures for growing plants in a controlled environment, which can boost productivity and reduce environmental impact.
How Much Can You Borrow?
The scheme offers substantial financial support to help you get started:
- Loan Amount: You can borrow up to 90% of the total cost of your project, with a maximum loan limit of ₹2 lakh. If you receive subsidies from other sources, the loan amount may be adjusted accordingly.
- Promoter’s Contribution: You will need to contribute 10% of the total project cost from your funds.
What Are the Benefits?
Here’s what you can expect from the Green Business Scheme:
- Financial Support:
- Loans are provided based on your needs, following the NSFDC Term Loan Lending Policy. Additional support may come from Special Central Assistance (SCA) and other government subsidies, especially for beneficiaries below the poverty line (BPL).
- Interest Rates:
- Our scheme offers competitive interest rates to make your investment affordable:
Unit Cost Range | Maximum Loan Limit | Interest Rate for SCA/CA Beneficiaries | Interest Rate for Other Beneficiaries |
Up to ₹7.50 Lakh | ₹6.75 Lakh | 2% | 4% |
Above ₹7.50 Lakh & Up to ₹15.00 Lakh | ₹13.50 Lakh | 3% | 6% |
Above ₹15.00 Lakh & Up to ₹30.00 Lakh | ₹27.00 Lakh | 4% | 7% |
- Note: Female beneficiaries receive a 1% rebate on the NSKFDC share of the interest.
- Repayment Terms:
- Repayment Period: You can repay the loan in quarterly instalments over a maximum of 10 years. This includes a 6-month moratorium period, so you have time to get your project up and running before starting repayments.
- Additional Moratorium: You get an extra 120 days to utilize the funds, providing more flexibility.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Green Business Scheme, you need to meet the following criteria:
- Primary Beneficiaries: Safai Karamcharis, scavengers, and their dependents. We aim to support those who are actively involved in sanitation and related sectors.
- Economic Background: The scheme is particularly focused on individuals from below-poverty-line (BPL) backgrounds or those eligible for Special Central Assistance (SCA).
How to Apply
Applying for the Green Business Scheme is easy. Here’s how you can do it:
Offline Application:
- Submit Your Application: Drop off your loan application at the District Offices of State Channelizing Agencies (SCAs), Branches of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), or Nationalized Banks.
- Application Processing: Your application will be reviewed and forwarded to the respective Head Offices.
- Project Viability: The viability of your project will be assessed. If approved, your application will be sent to NSKFDC for final approval.
Online Application:
- Submit Online: You can also apply online. SCAs, RRBs, and Nationalized Banks will review your application. Once assessed, viable projects will be forwarded to NSKFDC with recommendations.
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Step 3: Click on Loan application form.Step 4: Fill in all the details and tap on save to save the application form.
Documents Needed:
To complete your application, you’ll need to provide:
- Aadhaar Card
- Driving License
- Bank Details
- Caste Certificate
- Income Certificate
- Domicile Certificate
When Did This Scheme Start?
NSKFDC introduced the Green Business Scheme to support sustainable and green business practices. It reflects our commitment to environmental conservation and providing opportunities for those in the sanitation sector to thrive with cleaner technologies.
Conclusion
The Green Business Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for Safai Karamcharis, scavengers, and their families to invest in eco-friendly technologies and contribute to a more sustainable future. With substantial financial support, favourable interest rates, and flexible repayment terms, it’s designed to make green investments accessible and manageable.
For more information or to start your application, contact your local District Office, Regional Rural Bank, or Nationalized Bank, or visit the NSKFDC website.