Union Budget 2025: Central Government Introduces ₹2 Crore Loan Scheme for SC and ST Women
In a historic move aimed at empowering women from marginalized communities, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a major initiative in the Union Budget 2025, introducing a term loan scheme specifically for women from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). The scheme, which will be rolled out over the next five years, will offer loans of up to ₹2 crore to eligible SC and ST women.
The goal of this initiative is to support approximately five lakh women from these communities, enabling them to start or expand their businesses. By providing financial assistance, the government aims to empower these women economically, fostering entrepreneurial ventures and self-reliance.
Highlighting the importance of this program, Finance Minister Sitharaman stressed that it would not only help women establish or grow their businesses but also create significant employment and livelihood opportunities across the country. This targeted support aims to uplift women from the SC and ST communities, addressing long-standing economic disparities.
The loan scheme is seen as a vital step toward ensuring financial inclusion for women from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. With access to substantial financial resources, these women will be equipped to compete in the business world, contributing to the overall economic growth and fostering inclusive development.
This move aligns with the government’s broader vision to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in India, particularly for women and marginalized groups, creating a more equitable society and providing opportunities for all to thrive.
