The Financial Assistance Scheme for Purchase of Agricultural Land to Scheduled Caste Farmers is a pioneering initiative implemented by the Director of Scheduled Caste Welfare under the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of Gujarat. Launched in 1986, this scheme is designed to empower Scheduled Caste farmers by providing financial support for purchasing agricultural land. It aims to boost their income and reduce dependency on farm labour by enabling self-cultivation.
Benefits
- Financial Support: Provides ₹1,00,000 per acre, up to a total of ₹2,00,000 for land purchase.
- Land Ownership: Empowers SC farmers to own up to 2 acres of agricultural land for self-cultivation.
- Income Enhancement: Aims to increase the financial stability and independence of Scheduled Caste farmers.
- Inclusive Growth: Facilitates access to agricultural resources for marginalized communities.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the scheme:
- Caste Requirement: The applicant should belong to the Scheduled Castes category.
- Residency: Must be a native of Gujarat.
- Occupation: The applicant must be an agricultural labourer or farmer.
- Income Limit:
- For both rural and urban areas, the annual income limit is ₹6,00,000.
- Land Purchase Condition: The beneficiary must be able to purchase the land without any government assistance (excluding the assistance provided under this scheme).
- Family Limit: Only one member per family is eligible to apply.
- Land Source: Assistance is available for purchasing land from both government and private individuals.
Application Process (Online)
Registration
- Visit the e-Samaj Kalyan Portal: Go to https://esamajkalyan.gujarat.gov.in/.
- Citizen Login: Click on the ‘Citizen Login’ tab on the home page and select “New User – Please Register Here.”
- Fill Registration Form: Enter your Full Name (as per Aadhaar), Gender, Date of Birth, Aadhaar Card Number, Email ID, Caste, etc., and click on ‘Register’.
- Confirmation: After successful registration, you will receive a confirmation message via email or on the portal.
Profile Update and Application
- Login: Use your User ID and Password to log in.
- Update Profile: Click on ‘User Profile’ and update all mandatory information, then click ‘Update’.
- Select Scheme: From the home page, select the relevant scheme; an application form will open.
- Complete Application: Fill in all mandatory fields and upload the necessary documents.
- Agree & Save: Agree to the terms & conditions and click on ‘Save Application’.
- Submit & Print: Submit your application and print the confirmation for future reference. Note down your application number for tracking.
Documents Required
- Passport-size Photograph
- Aadhaar Card of the applicant
- Caste Certificate issued by the competent authority
- Proof of Being a Farmer/Agricultural Worker
- Income Certificate
- Valid Revenue Department Permission: Copy of permission to sell land
- True Copy of Revenue Account Permission for sale of land
- Bank Passbook/Cancelled Cheque: First page in the applicant’s name
- Any Other Documents: As specified by the guidelines
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When was the scheme launched?
A1: The scheme was launched in 1986.
Q2: What is the main objective of the scheme?
A2: The objective is to provide financial assistance to Scheduled Caste farmers for purchasing agricultural land, thereby enhancing their income and promoting self-cultivation.
Q3: How much financial assistance is provided per acre under the scheme?
A3: The scheme provides ₹1,00,000 per acre.
Q4: What is the maximum assistance provided for land purchase?
A4: The maximum assistance provided is ₹2,00,000 for up to 2 acres.
Q5: Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
A5: Only Scheduled Caste farmers, who are native to Gujarat and engaged in agriculture, are eligible to apply.
Q6: What are the income limits for eligibility under the scheme?
A6: The annual income must not exceed ₹6,00,000 for both rural and urban areas.
Q7: Are there any restrictions on land purchase with government assistance?
A7: Yes, beneficiaries of land acquired with government assistance are subject to a non-sale condition for 15 years.
Q8: Can multiple family members apply for the benefit?
A8: No, only one member per family is eligible to apply.
Q9: Is the assistance available for purchasing land only from the government?
A9: No, assistance is available for purchasing land from both government and private individuals.
Q10: How can eligible applicants apply for the scheme?
A10: Applicants can apply online through the e-Samaj Kalyan Portal by registering, updating their profile, and filling out the application form.
Q11: Can individuals residing outside Gujarat apply for this scheme?
A11: No, applicants must be native to Gujarat to be eligible for the scheme.