Scheme for Assistance to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME): Assistance for Saving in Consumption of Energy and Water

The Industries and Mines Department, Gujarat, administers the "Scheme for Assistance to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME)" as an umbrella initiative. It is valid from August 7th, 2020, to August 6th, 2025, and targets the state's MSME sector, which contributes to employment, GDP, and exports. The scheme aims to support entrepreneurs and improve the international competitiveness of Gujarat's MSMEs.

Under this scheme, the "Assistance for Saving in Consumption of Energy and Water" component supports both new and existing enterprises in lowering their energy and water usage. The initiative encourages industries to adopt sustainable practices by offering financial help to offset the costs of eco-friendly technologies. It reimburses expenses for energy and water audits conducted by recognised institutions and provides subsidies on equipment recommended in those audits. This approach enables businesses to identify inefficiencies and invest in upgrades, resulting in cost savings and a smaller environmental impact.

The application for the Assistance for Saving in Consumption of Energy and Water scheme is handled fully online through the Gujarat government's Investor Facilitation Portal (IFP).

- **Step 1: New Investor Registration.** Go to https://ifp.gujarat.gov.in/DIGIGOV/ and select the "New Investor Registration" option. - **Step 2: Fill Registration Form.** Provide all required information in the registration form and submit it. - **Step 3: Email Verification.** Activate your email address by clicking the link sent to your registered email. - **Step 4: Successful Registration.** Once verification is complete, your account is created. - **Step 5: Login to Portal.** Return to the Investor Facilitation Portal (IFP) and choose "Login". - **Step 6: Enter Credentials.** Type in your registered email address and password. - **Step 7: Access Account.** Click "Login" to reach your application dashboard. - **Step 8: Complete Application.** Enter all relevant business information and upload any required documents as directed to finish your application submission.

Applications filed via the Investor Facilitation Portal are reviewed by the Industries and Mines Department, Gujarat. The department checks eligibility, which includes completion of an energy/water audit by a recognised institution, the proposed equipment installation, and a commitment to reduce consumption by at least 10%. Additional verification of audit reports and implementation plans may be carried out for enterprises.

Approval and release of funds depend on compliance with scheme guidelines and confirmation of the savings reported.