The Stand-Up India Scheme has made significant strides by allocating ₹62,791 crore to support 2,75,291 SC/ST and women entrepreneurs since its inception in April 2016. This initiative aims to foster greenfield enterprises and promote inclusive growth.
About the Stand-Up India Scheme
The Stand-Up India Scheme, launched in April 2016, targets Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and women to encourage entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. As of August 2025, banks have sanctioned a substantial amount of loans to beneficiaries, promoting financial inclusion.
Key Features of the Scheme
- Eligibility: At least one SC/ST borrower and one woman borrower per bank branch of Scheduled Commercial Banks.
- Loan Amount: Ranges from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore.
Sectors Covered
- Trading
- Manufacturing
- Services
- Activities allied to agriculture
This initiative facilitates job creation and promotes financial inclusion by assisting new entrepreneurs in establishing their businesses.
Achievements and Impact
- Loans Sanctioned: ₹62,791 crore
- Total Beneficiaries: 2,75,291 accounts (SC/ST and women entrepreneurs)
- Impact: Empowered first-time entrepreneurs, especially in semi-urban and rural areas, to access formal credit for business ventures.
Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) for Crop Loans
Alongside Stand-Up India, the government has strengthened agricultural credit support through MISS:
- Total of ₹17,811.72 crore disbursed in FY 2024–25 for short-term crop loans
- Includes interest subvention and Prompt Repayment Incentives (PRI)
- Reduces effective interest burden on farmers, enhancing credit affordability and supporting rural incomes
Significance of the Initiatives
The government’s initiatives focus on:
- Inclusive Entrepreneurship: Providing capital access for women and SC/ST entrepreneurs
- Agricultural Credit Support: Easing financial stress for farmers through subsidies
- Digital Lending Regulation: Ensuring secure innovation in India’s fintech sector
These efforts collectively contribute to inclusive growth, rural development, and financial stability.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Stand-Up India Scheme promotes entrepreneurship among SC, ST, and women entrepreneurs.
- Interest subvention schemes like MISS aid farmers in accessing affordable credit.
- Government initiatives aim to foster inclusive growth and financial stability.
