Mahila Kisan Yojana

The Mahila Kisan Yojana aims to empower women from the economically marginalised Charmakar communities, including Dhor, Chambhar, Holar, and Mochi, by providing focused assistance and restoring their dignity. It runs under the Department of Social Justice and Special Assistance in Maharashtra, together with the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC). The scheme promotes socio-economic progress for women through training, financial aid and assistance in marketing footwear and leather products to both government agencies and the open market.

Here are the main features and benefits of the Mahila Kisan Yojana that help women from the Charmakar community build secure and independent livelihoods:

Financial Support of ₹50,000

Each eligible woman receives financial aid of ₹50,000, combining both subsidy and loan components to support her livelihood.

Subsidy to Reduce Loan Burden

A subsidy of ₹10,000 is provided to ease repayment pressure and make the scheme more affordable for beneficiaries.

Low-interest Loan Facility

The remaining ₹40,000 is given as a loan at a concessional interest rate of 5% per year, ensuring easy and manageable repayments.

Encouragement of Entrepreneurship

The scheme promotes self-employment through small-scale ventures in footwear and leather production, helping women start or expand their own businesses.

Promotion of Economic and Social Upliftment

By creating stable income opportunities, the scheme enhances women’s financial security and helps them gain greater respect within their communities.

Empowerment Through Self-reliance

It enables women to become financially independent, transforming them into active contributors to their families and society.

Preservation of Traditional Skills

The scheme helps preserve the Charmakar community’s leatherwork heritage while turning traditional craftsmanship into a steady source of income.

Pathway Out of Poverty

With sustained financial and business support, the scheme helps women rise above poverty and build a better standard of living.

Eligibility Linked to Land Ownership

Applicants must have their or their spouse’s name on the 7/12 land extract, ensuring fair access for genuine agricultural workers.

Support for Skilled Applicants

Priority is given to women with experience or knowledge in agriculture or leather-based activities, improving project success rates.

Focused Community Development

By targeting women from the Charmakar community, the scheme addresses historical social disadvantages and fosters inclusive growth.

Scope for Choice and Flexibility

Beneficiaries can select the project type—agriculture, footwear, or leather products—based on their individual skills and interests.

Here are the key conditions you need to meet to be eligible for the Mahila Kisan Yojana scheme:

• You must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra

• The scheme is open only to women applicants

• You should belong to the Charmakar community, such as Dhor, Chambhar, Holar, or Mochi

• Your age must be between 18 and 50 years

• Some basic knowledge or experience in the chosen business or activity is required

• For farm-related projects, the land must be in your or your husband’s name, or supported by an affidavit if only your husband’s name appears

• To qualify for the 50% Subsidy Scheme and Margin Money benefits, your annual income must be below the set poverty line

• For the NSFDC plan, income should not exceed ₹98,000 in rural areas and ₹1,20,000 in urban areas

Here are the simple steps you need to follow to apply for the Mahila Kisan Yojana:

1. Go to the District Office of the Leather Industries Development Corporation of Maharashtra (LIDCOM) within regular office hours

2. Ask the concerned officer for the official Mahila Kisan Yojana application form

3. Fill in all required details carefully and paste your recent passport-size photograph on the form

4. Attach self-attested copies of all necessary documents listed in the required documents section

5. Submit the completed and signed application form along with the documents to the LIDCOM District Office

6. Request an acknowledgement or receipt after submission for your reference

7. Keep the receipt safe as it serves as proof of application and helps with future tracking

Here are some other key government schemes that support women farmers and promote financial independence:

The Mahila Kisan Yojana is a vital initiative that empowers women from the Charmakar community through financial support, skill development, and livelihood opportunities. By offering affordable credit and market access, the scheme promotes self-reliance and helps preserve traditional crafts. It strengthens rural entrepreneurship and uplifts families through sustainable income. Find the ideal business loan for women, compare customised loan offers, and apply for a business loan on Bajaj Markets for quick access to funds.