Dattopant Thengadi Artisan Interest Subsidy Scheme

The Dattopant Thengadi Artisan Interest Subsidy Scheme, run by Gujarat's Industries and Mines Department, provides low-interest financial assistance to traditional artisans in both urban and rural parts of the state. Its purpose is to help artisans purchase machinery, tools, and raw materials for starting or expanding their businesses, with an emphasis on modernisation and productivity. The scheme supports the preservation of traditional crafts while improving the market position of skilled workers.

The programme recognises the role of artisans in Gujarat's cultural and economic landscape and offers a structured route to financial inclusion and entrepreneurship. Applications are processed through District Industries Centres, which simplifies access to support for those who need it.

1. **Obtain the application form.** Download the prescribed form from the official website of the Commissioner of Cottage & Rural Industries and take a printout. 2. **Fill in the details.** Complete two copies of the form with all required information, covering personal particulars, artisan business details, and financial needs. Provide accurate and complete data to prevent processing delays. 3. **Attach photographs and documents.** Paste two passport-size photographs on each copy. Compile supporting papers, including the artisan identity card, proof of age and address, bank account details (Account Number and IFSC Code), Aadhaar number, and other business-related documents. Enclose certified copies of all these with the application. 4. **Submit the application.** Hand over the completed form and certified documents (in duplicate) to the District Industries Centre (DIC) of your district. The DIC serves as the nodal body for the scheme and manages the submission process. 5. **Loan approval and release.** Following the DIC's processing, financial institutions—such as Nationalized Banks, Regional Rural Banks, Co-operative Banks, Public Sector Banks, and Private Banks—assess the application per their criteria and approve the loan. The sanctioned amount is then credited to your account, and repayments begin according to the bank's schedule. 6. **Subsidy claims.** The bank files claims for the Margin Money Subsidy and Interest Subsidy with the Commissioner, Cottage and Rural Industries, or the DIC. These claims confirm regular repayment and proper use of the loan. 7. **Subsidy payment.** Once the bank's claim is received and checked, the Margin Money Subsidy (a one-time payment after loan disbursement) and the Interest Subsidy (paid half-yearly) are transferred directly to your account through RTGS/e-Payment. Ensure your bank details—Account Number, IFSC Code, TAN No., and Aadhaar Number—are correct for prompt crediting.

The District Industries Centre (DIC) first screens applications to confirm the applicant’s artisan status and that the submission is complete. Eligible applications are then sent to participating financial institutions—including nationalised banks, Regional Rural Banks, Co-operative Banks, Public Sector Banks, and Private Banks—which assess creditworthiness and business viability against their own lending criteria.

For subsidy disbursement, the banks must certify that the artisan has paid instalments on time, is not a defaulter, and has used the loan for its stated purpose. This certification may be supported by site visits from the implementing agency to confirm the purchase of machinery, equipment, or raw materials.