Chhattisgarh SC/ST Land Diversion Exemption

Under the Special Package for SC/ST Entrepreneurs run by the Government of Chhattisgarh, eligible businesses can claim a 50% waiver on the fee payable for converting agricultural or other land to industrial use. The exemption is capped at 15 acres.

The purpose of the waiver is to lower the upfront capital outlay for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) entrepreneurs in the state, and in doing so to support industrial development, job creation and economic empowerment within these communities. Cheaper land conversion for industrial purposes is intended to make the entrepreneurial ecosystem more inclusive.

The wider policy also carries other supportive measures, along with raised ceilings on additional subsidies for these entrepreneur categories, to strengthen their ventures and secure their share in Chhattisgarh's industrial growth.

Applicants must begin by applying through the online portal designated for this purpose, or at the district industry centre, in line with the provisions laid out in the Special Package for SC/ST Entrepreneurs policy document. A set of documents is generally needed at the time of application: a detailed project report describing the industrial activity proposed, documentary proof of the applicant's Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe status, records establishing ownership or lease of the land earmarked for diversion, and a completed application form. Once the initial submission is made, the concerned departmental authorities in Chhattisgarh may call the applicant for an interview or seek additional clarifications while screening the application. Applicants who clear this stage are granted formal approval of the exemption from the land diversion fee.

Applications undergo a multi-stage review by the relevant Chhattisgarh government department, frequently with the District Industries Centre's involvement. Initial screening confirms that primary eligibility conditions are met — the applicant's SC/ST status and a clear industrial purpose for the land. The proposed project is then assessed in detail for viability, economic impact, and consistency with the state's industrial policy objectives.

A committee examines every document submitted to confirm that the terms and conditions of the 'Special Package for SC/ST Entrepreneurs' policy have been satisfied. This evaluation is what restricts the land diversion fee exemption to projects that are genuinely eligible and capable of impact, thereby supporting sustainable industrial growth.