Zero Liquid Discharge Capital Subsidy

The Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) Capital Subsidy sits under Odisha's Industrial Policy Resolution 2022. It extends capital support to new and existing industrial units that invest in wastewater management, and it applies to units in the Thrust and Priority Sectors.

The subsidy is calculated on the cost of the equipment involved. In return, units are expected to recover at least 50% of their wastewater, which lowers the environmental load of industrial operations and conserves water.

By covering part of the equipment cost, the scheme reduces what a unit must spend to install ZLD systems. It is intended to make compliance with environmental regulations easier to finance while supporting industrial growth in the state.

- **Examine the policy document**: Go through the Industrial Policy Resolution 2022 Odisha (Section 4.5.6.b.) in full to grasp the specific eligibility conditions, terms and conditions attached to the Zero Liquid Discharge Capital Subsidy. The overall application framework for incentives under the policy is set out in this document. - **Draft the project proposal**: Put together a detailed project proposal covering the proposed Zero Liquid Discharge facility — equipment specifications, a cost breakdown, anticipated wastewater recovery rates (not less than 50%) and environmental gains. Where the facility is new, confirm that it meets OSPCB certification requirements. - **Secure OSPCB certification (where required)**: For new ZLD facilities, obtain the certifications or approvals mandated by the policy from the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB). - **Assemble the supporting documents**: Collect every document required, which generally covers evidence of industrial unit registration, financial statements, itemised equipment quotations, project implementation timelines and environmental compliance reports. - **File the application**: Send the full application package to the designated authority within the Government of Odisha, Industries Department. Instructions on the submission portal or the physical address will be available in the policy document or on the department website. - **Track progress**: Stay in touch with the Industries Department for updates on the application status, and reply promptly whenever additional information or clarification is sought.

Applications for the Zero Liquid Discharge Capital Subsidy generally pass through several stages of scrutiny. The Industries Department first carries out a preliminary screening, checking that the application is complete and that the industrial unit meets basic eligibility. A technical assessment follows, in which the proposed ZLD technology, equipment costs and the feasibility of meeting the stated wastewater recovery targets are examined. Experts or a committee drawn from the relevant technical departments usually conduct this review, and representatives from the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) may be involved where certification verification is required. A financial appraisal then weighs the economic viability of the proposal and the genuineness of the need for subsidy support.

Final selection rests with a high-level committee, which decides on the basis of technical merit, the financial assessment and how far the proposal aligns with the state's industrial and environmental objectives. Units that are approved are notified, after which disbursement begins, linked either to milestones or to reimbursement claims.