The Charmashilpa Scheme is an initiative aimed at the modernization of leather artisans’ production units. Implemented by the Social Welfare Department, it provides both financial and technical assistance to eligible artisans, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Co-operative Societies. The objective is to enhance the productivity, efficiency, and market competitiveness of leather goods by encouraging a shift from traditional to mechanized production methods.
Benefits
• Total Financial Assistance per unit: ₹10,00,000/-
– ₹5,00,000/- as subsidy
– ₹5,00,000/- as bank loan
Breakdown of Utilization:
• ₹3,50,000/- for machinery
• ₹6,00,000/- for working capital (raw materials and labor)
• ₹50,000/- for miscellaneous expenses
Eligibility Criteria
• Applicant must be leather artisans, Artisan SHGs, or Co-operative Societies
• Applicant must belong to specified Scheduled Caste sub-castes (e.g., Arundathiyar, Mochi, Madiga, Rohidas, etc.)
• Minimum age: 18 years
• Annual family income:
– Not exceeding ₹30,000/- in rural areas
– Not exceeding ₹25,000/- in urban areas
• The applicant/family must not be employed in government or semi-government services
• Applicant or family should not have availed benefits from other corporation schemes (except training)
Application Process
Online Application via Seva Sindhu Portal
Registration Process:
• Step 1: Visit the Seva Sindhu Portal
• Step 2: Click “New Users Register Here”, enter Aadhaar number and captcha
• Step 3: Enter OTP received on Aadhaar-linked mobile number
• Step 4: Allow DigiLocker integration
• Step 5: Provide email, mobile, create password, and validate OTPs
• Step 6: A confirmation message will be shown after successful registration
Application Process:
• Step 1: Go to “Departments & Services” on Seva Sindhu
• Step 2: Select “Social Welfare Department”, then choose “Charmashilpa Scheme”
• Step 3: Click “Apply Online”, log in using registered email/mobile and OTP
• Step 4: Fill in personal, address, banking, and project details
• Step 5: Submit the application and receive an Application ID for tracking
Documents Required
• Aadhaar Card
• Caste Certificate with RD Number
• Annual Income Certificate
• Ration Card
• Passport-size photo (applicant & spouse)
• E-Shram Card (for shoemakers/cobblers)
• SHG Bank Passbook (first page)
• Detailed Project Report (DPR)
• Loan Sanction Documents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is the objective of the Charmashilpa Scheme?
To modernize leather production and improve income-generation opportunities for leather artisans through financial and technical support. -
How much financial assistance is offered under the scheme?
A total of ₹10,00,000/- (₹5,00,000/- as subsidy and ₹5,00,000/- as bank loan). -
What is the income limit for rural applicants?
Annual family income must not exceed ₹30,000/- in rural areas. -
Is there a different income limit for urban applicants?
Yes, urban applicants must have an annual income not exceeding ₹25,000/-. -
Can applicants avail benefits from other corporation schemes?
No, unless it is a training program. Applicants should not have availed benefits from other schemes. -
What documents are required to apply for the Charmashilpa Scheme?
Aadhaar, caste certificate, income certificate, ration card, photos, E-Shram card, SHG passbook, DPR, and loan documents. -
Who verifies the applications?
Applications are verified by the District Level Selection Committee and relevant officials. -
What is the role of the District Level Selection Committee?
The committee reviews and approves applications, ensuring eligibility and compliance. -
Is there any technical assistance provided under the scheme?
Yes, technical guidance is offered for setting up and operating mechanized production units. -
Are there any specific requirements for SHGs?
Yes, SHGs must have an active bank account, valid documentation, and a viable business plan. -
What happens after the application is approved?
Approved applicants receive subsidy and loan disbursement, along with assistance in setting up the unit.