The Women Self Employment Scheme is a welfare initiative by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of Himachal Pradesh. This scheme provides financial assistance to women in the state to help them establish small-scale businesses or trades, enhancing their self-reliance and improving their socio-economic condition.
Purpose
The assistance aims to help women start income-generating ventures such as:
• Tea Stall
• Karyana Shop
• Pan Bidi / Cigarette Shop
• Stationery Shop
• Tea Biscuit Stall
• Tailor Shop
• Wool / Khadi / Embroidery Shop
• Poultry Farm
• Maniyari Shop
• Any other locally identified or needs-based trade
Benefits
• Financial Assistance of ₹5,000/- to eligible women for launching small trade or business ventures
Eligibility Criteria
• The applicant must be a woman
• Must plan to set up a business or trade to earn a livelihood
• The applicant’s annual income should not exceed ₹35,000/-
• Physically handicapped women are also eligible to apply
Application Process
Offline Mode
• Step 1: Visit the District Welfare Office during working hours
• Step 2: Obtain the application form (Annexure-I) from designated staff
• Step 3: Fill in all mandatory fields, attach relevant documents (self-attested if required)
• Step 4: Submit the filled-in form and documents to the District Welfare Officer
• Step 5: Collect a receipt or acknowledgment with date/time and application ID (if applicable)
Documents Required
• Income Certificate
• Bond Form
• Aadhaar Card
• Any other document as required by the Welfare Department
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
Any woman resident of Himachal Pradesh whose annual income does not exceed ₹35,000/- and who wishes to start a small business. -
What types of businesses can be set up under this scheme?
Businesses such as tea stalls, tailoring, poultry, embroidery, shops, and other local income-generating trades. -
Is there a fee to apply for this scheme?
No, there is no application fee for this scheme. -
What is the role of the District Welfare Officer in this scheme?
The District Welfare Officer issues application forms, accepts completed applications, and processes approvals and disbursals. -
What if the funds are not utilized for the intended purpose?
Misuse of funds may result in cancellation of benefits or action as per department guidelines. -
Will there be any monitoring of the business after the funds are disbursed?
Yes, follow-up or verification may be conducted by authorities to ensure fund usage aligns with the business plan. -
Where should I submit my application form?
At the District Welfare Office of your respective district. -
How will I know if my application has been approved?
The District Welfare Officer will notify approved candidates via acknowledgment slip or phone call. -
Is there any provision for assistance if the business fails?
There is no explicit provision, but you may consult the welfare office for alternative support programs. -
Do I need to provide a guarantor for the bond?
It depends on the department’s internal procedure. Usually, a Bond Form is submitted to assure genuine use of funds, but a guarantor is not always required.