Handicraft Rebate Scheme

The Handicraft Rebate Scheme, run by the Commissioner of Cottage and Rural Industries, Government of Gujarat, supports the handicraft sector and the livelihoods of artisans in the state. It provides financial relief and market incentives to industrial cooperatives, apex societies, and women-led groups involved in handicraft production.

The scheme gives a permanent rebate of 5% on retail sales of handicrafts. During festive seasons, an additional 10% special rebate raises the total to 15% for general cooperatives. Women-led cooperatives receive a permanent rebate of 15%, which increases to 20% during festivals.

The e-Kutir portal handles implementation. Its e-voucher system manages toolkit distribution and direct rebate disbursement, removing intermediaries so benefits reach the intended recipients without delay. The scheme strengthens the market position of Gujarati handicrafts and supports the welfare of artisans, contributing to the preservation of traditional crafts and the development of rural industries.

The application for the Handicraft Rebate Scheme is submitted online via the e-Kutir portal. The procedure is outlined below.

- **Step 1: New Individual Registration**: Go to the e-Kutir portal (https://e-kutir.gujarat.gov.in) and select "For New Individual Registration, click Here". Provide all required personal information, including Full Name, Aadhaar Card Number, Gender, Date of Birth, Mobile Number, E-mail, and set a Password. Enter the Captcha and click "Register". Verify the details in the pop-up to continue. - **Step 2: Receive Credentials**: After registration is complete, your User ID and Password will be delivered to your registered mobile number via SMS and to your email (if supplied). Retain these details for subsequent logins. - **Step 3: Login and User Profile Update**: Return to the e-Kutir portal, input your User ID, Password, and Captcha, then click "Login". On your initial login, you must finish your "User Profile" by supplying all required personal and organisational details. Fields pre-filled from registration cannot be altered at this stage. - **Step 4: Scheme Application**: Once logged in and your profile is complete, the homepage will show schemes applicable to you. Select the "Handicraft Rebate Scheme" to open its online application form, which is usually organised into several tabs. - **Step 5: Fill Application Form & Upload Documents**: Complete all mandatory fields in the form accurately. Attach the necessary documents (e.g., identity proof, business registration, bank account details, and prior rebate certification) in the prescribed format and size. Enter the relevant document numbers where requested. Use "Save & Next" to move between tabs. - **Step 6: Review and Submit**: Examine all entered information and uploaded files carefully. Make any needed corrections. Tick the checkbox to accept the terms and conditions, declaration, and privacy policy. - **Step 7: Generate Application Number**: Pressing "Save & Next" on the final tab will produce a unique application number, shown on the screen. Note this number for future reference and to track status. You can also print a copy of your application via the "Print Application" button. - **Application Modification**: If your application is sent back for changes, a "Modify" button will appear, letting you edit and resubmit. - **Helpdesk/Grievance**: For support, phone 9909926280 / 9909926180 or reach out to your District Industries Centre (DIC).

Applications under the Handicraft Rebate Scheme are submitted through the e-Kutir portal. The Commissionerate of Cottage and Rural Industries, Government of Gujarat, then reviews each submission. This review checks the applicant's eligibility, confirms the genuineness of the handicraft output, and validates the documentation provided, which includes the earlier rebate certificate.

Once these checks are completed successfully, the rebate amount is cleared for payment through the e-voucher mechanism.