Direct Finance Scheme by NSFDC (GSCDC)
Low-interest self-employment loan · 1–5% p.a. · Gujarat SC individuals
Direct Finance Scheme by NSFDC provides low-interest loans to Scheduled Caste individuals in Gujarat to start their own self-employment ventures. Loans are given through the Gujarat Scheduled Castes Development Corporation (GSCDC) at just 1–5% annual interest.
About This Scheme
Direct Finance Scheme by NSFDC provides low-interest loans to Scheduled Caste individuals in Gujarat to start their own self-employment ventures. Loans are given through the Gujarat Scheduled Castes Development Corporation (GSCDC) at just 1–5% annual interest.
Full official description
The “Direct Finance Scheme by NSFDC (GSCDC)” scheme was launched by the Social Justice and Empowerment Department, Government of Gujarat. The scheme aims to provide concessional credit facilities to Scheduled Caste persons for self-employment opportunities. Under this scheme, loans are provided at subsidized rates of interest ranging from 1% to 5%, enabling beneficiaries to start their own income-generating ventures.
Benefits
- Low-interest loan for self-employment at just 1%–5% per year — far below standard bank rates of 10–14%
- Loan through GSCDC, a government corporation with simplified application for SC applicants
- Purpose: any viable self-employment or income-generating business activity
💡 Why Startups Should Care
If you're an SC entrepreneur in Gujarat looking for the cheapest business capital available, this scheme offers interest rates as low as 1% — that's cheaper than most fixed deposits. Even at the 5% ceiling, it's far below any commercial loan rate.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
You must be a Gujarat resident from the Scheduled Caste community, currently unemployed, with an annual family income below ₹3 lakh.
How to Apply
- Visit gscdconline.gujarat.gov.in and click "New User (Register)".
- Fill in your email, mobile number, and create a password, then click Submit.
- Save your generated User ID and password received via SMS/email.
- Log in with your User ID, password, and captcha.
- Browse the schemes listed for your caste and click the one you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload all required documents.
- Click "Save Application" — note down your Application Number for tracking.
- Print your application for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the scheme?
Scheduled Caste persons with family income up to ₹3,00,000.
What is the rate of interest on loans under this scheme?
Loans are available at concessional rates between 1% to 5%.
What is the purpose of the loan?
The purpose for self-employment and business ventures.
Can salaried individuals apply for this scheme?
No, only unemployed SC persons seeking self-employment are eligible.
What documents are required?
Aadhaar card, caste certificate, income certificate, bank details, and business-related documents.
Where can I apply for this scheme?
The apply online at https://gscdconline.gujarat.gov.in/.
Is there an offline application process?
No, applications are accepted only online.
Is there any fee to apply?
No, the application form and services are completely free.
What is Bahedhari Patrak?
A notarized surety document is required for loan sanction.
Where can I get more information?
More details are available on https://sje.gujarat.gov.in/ddcw and the https://gscdconline.gujarat.gov.in/.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Aadhaar card
- Caste certificate
- Income certificate (prescribed format as per Annexure-II)
- Bank passbook or cancelled cheque
- Ration card
- School leaving certificate
- Passport-size photos
- Business address proof
- Copy of licence (if applicable)
- Notarized Bahedhari Patrak