The Kerala government has introduced the Dakshayani self-employment assistance scheme to encourage entrepreneurship among Scheduled Caste women, offering financial support to eligible self-help groups planning to launch or expand businesses. The initiative aims to strengthen women’s economic independence by helping them establish income-generating enterprises.
Named in honour of Dakshayani Velayudhan, the social reformer who was the only Dalit woman in India’s Constituent Assembly, the scheme provides financial assistance for projects with a total investment of up to ₹15 lakh.
Under the programme, eligible groups can receive assistance covering 75% of the project cost, subject to a maximum grant of ₹10 lakh. Applicants must form self-help groups comprising at least five women. The groups must also be registered with the District Registrar’s Office or through the relevant Kudumbashree institutions.
The assistance will be disbursed through bank accounts in two instalments. Applications will undergo scrutiny, with officials examining the proposed business, its financial requirements and other relevant details before selecting beneficiaries. The government will also monitor the progress of supported enterprises.
Interested groups can contact their local Scheduled Caste Development Office for application forms, eligibility details and guidance on the process.
The scheme could provide a significant opportunity for women seeking to move beyond informal employment and build sustainable small businesses. Access to financial assistance may help groups overcome initial investment barriers and explore ventures in areas such as manufacturing, food processing, services and local trading, subject to scheme guidelines.
By linking public funding with organised self-help groups, the initiative seeks to promote collective entrepreneurship and create more reliable sources of income for Scheduled Caste women across Kerala.
Applicants should confirm the latest application schedule, documentation requirements and other conditions with the relevant district office before preparing their proposals.
