Aatmanirbhar Gujarat Scheme for assistance to MSMEs: Assistance for Saving in Consumption of Energy and Water

Aatmanirbhar Gujarat Scheme for MSMEs: Energy and Water Consumption Support

The “Aatmanirbhar Gujarat Scheme for assistance to MSMEs” is a strategic initiative designed to bolster the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) of Gujarat. This scheme plays a crucial role in enhancing employment opportunities, boosting the state’s GDP, and elevating export potential, thereby contributing to the broader goals of “Aatmanirbhar Gujarat” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”

Overview of the Scheme

Initiated by the Industries and Mines Department of Gujarat, the “Aatmanirbhar Gujarat Scheme for MSMEs” serves as a comprehensive framework aimed at fostering growth in the MSME sector. Launched on October 5, 2022, and set to run until October 4, 2027, this scheme focuses on encouraging sustainable practices within industries. One of its critical components, “Assistance for Saving in Consumption of Energy and Water,” provides financial aid to businesses that undertake initiatives to minimize energy and water usage. This support includes funding for energy and water audits as well as the purchase of necessary equipment.

Key Benefits

• Energy/Water Audit Reimbursement: Eligible enterprises can receive 75% reimbursement of the costs incurred during an energy or water audit, capped at ₹50,000. This support is available once during the scheme’s duration.
• Equipment Cost Assistance: Enterprises can avail 25% of the equipment costs recommended by the audit authority, with a maximum limit of ₹20,00,000. This assistance is also accessible once during the operational period of the scheme.
• Energy/Water Savings Requirement: To qualify for equipment assistance, businesses must demonstrate a minimum savings of 10% in energy or water consumption, based on the average monthly usage over the preceding 12 months before the audit.

Eligibility Criteria

• The applicant must be classified as a Micro, Small, or Medium Enterprise within the service sector.
• Registration or acknowledgment from the Ministry of MSME or the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is mandatory.
• Enterprises must have completed an energy or water audit conducted by a recognized organization or consultant to be eligible for audit reimbursement.
• A minimum reduction of 10% in energy or water consumption, as evidenced by the audit results, is required to qualify for equipment assistance.

Application Procedure

Online Application Steps

To apply for the scheme, follow these steps:

Registration Process:

1. Navigate to the Investor Facilitation Portal (IFP) and click on “New Investor Registration” to access the registration form.
2. Complete the Registration Form and click on “Submit.”
3. Confirm your email by clicking the link sent to your registered email address.
4. Upon verification, your registration will be successfully completed.

Post-Registration Process:

1. Return to the Investor Facilitation Portal (IFP) and click on “Login.”
2. Input the email address and password used during registration.
3. Click the “Login” button to access your account.
4. Fill in the necessary details and upload the required documents related to your business to finalize the application process.

Official Reference

For more information, please visit the official site: myScheme.gov.in.