Investment Promotion Scheme (IPS) For Handicraft Artisans: Assistance For Capital Investment For The Handloom And Handicrafts Artisans Of The U.T. Requiring Financial Assistance For Purchase Of Machinery Or Raw Materials

The sub-scheme "Assistance For Capital Investment For The Handloom And Handicrafts Artisans Of The U.T. Requiring Financial Assistance For Purchase Of Machinery Or Raw Materials" functions under the broader Investment Promotion Scheme (IPS) for Handicraft Artisans. It was first introduced on July 3, 2015, for a five-year period, and has since been renewed from May 20, 2022, with operations continuing until May 19, 2027. The Department of Industries, U.T. Administration of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu manages its implementation.

The parent Investment Promotion Scheme (IPS) seeks to deliver incentives and support to the MSME sector, helping it withstand market volatility and remain viable. Its goals include positioning the Union Territory as a dedicated MSME hub, raising women's business participation, cutting local unemployment, and encouraging industries to hire resident workers. This particular sub-scheme targets Handloom and Handicrafts artisans in the U.T., offering capital subsidies for machinery purchases and working capital assistance for raw materials. Such backing aids business growth, preserves traditional crafts, and allows artisans to modernise and expand their operations.

The application process is conducted entirely online and is split into two phases: registration and submission of the application.

**Registration Phase:** 1. Go to the registration page of the official website (swp.dddgov.in/registration). 2. Fill in the required details in the fields shown and select 'Register'. 3. Confirm your email address by opening the verification link sent to your registered email (check the spam folder if it does not appear). 4. Use the link from the email, or paste the URL into your browser, to finish verifying your account. 5. Enter '111111' as the OTP to verify your mobile number. Your mobile number and PIN will be dispatched to your registered email address. 6. Once registration is complete, your login credentials will be emailed to you.

**Application Phase:** 1. Access the user login page of the official website (swp.dddgov.in/login). 2. Enter your registered mobile number and the PIN from your email, then select 'Log In'. 3. After a successful login, choose the 'Departments & Services' tab from the menu on the left. 4. Scroll to 'District Industries Centre DD & DNH' and press the 'Click Here' button to apply under 'Investment Promotion Scheme: 2022 to 2027 (20 May 2022 to 19 May 2027)'. 5. A 'Common Application Form' will appear. Complete all the fields and upload every required document as indicated. 6. Once all information is entered, review every detail carefully and press 'Submit' to finish.

The evaluation process requires applicants to present their craft skills and exhibit finished products. Candidates must hold authentic expertise in Handloom or Handicraft art and provide a live demonstration of their work. This demonstration is reviewed by a designated committee, usually including the General Manager (GM) of the District Industries Centre (DIC), the Director (Tourism), and the CEO (District Panchayat). The committee examines the artisan's craftsmanship and the soundness of their business development proposal to decide whether they qualify for the capital subsidy.