In a progressive effort to encourage self-employment and alleviate the financial burdens for individuals looking to purchase commercial vehicles, the Karnataka Government has introduced the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme. This initiative is specifically designed to support the Scheduled Tribe (ST) youth and women by offering subsidies for the purchase of passenger auto-rickshaws, goods vehicles, and taxis. Intending to boost entrepreneurship and reduce financial obstacles, this scheme helps eligible individuals acquire vehicles necessary for their businesses in the transportation sector.
Implemented in collaboration with nationalized and scheduled banks, the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme provides financial assistance to those looking to enter the transport business or expand existing operations. Here’s an in-depth look at the scheme, including key features, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and required documents.
Overview of the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme
The Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme aims to offer financial aid for the purchase of commercial vehicles such as taxis, goods vehicles, and passenger auto-rickshaws. This initiative is particularly beneficial for Scheduled Tribe youth and women, providing them with the necessary resources to start or expand businesses in the transportation sector.
The scheme offers a substantial subsidy of 70% of the vehicle’s purchase cost or a maximum of ₹4.00 Lakhs. This financial support, combined with a bank loan for the remaining cost, helps reduce the financial pressure on the beneficiaries and makes purchasing vehicles for self-employment more accessible.
Key Features of the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme
Subsidy Amount: Beneficiaries can receive a subsidy of up to 70% of the vehicle’s cost or a maximum of ₹4.00 Lakhs, whichever is lower.
Priority for Women and ST Youth: Special preference is given to Scheduled Tribe youth and women, ensuring that they can access the benefits of the scheme and improve their socio-economic conditions.
Loan Facility: The remaining amount after the subsidy is provided in the form of a loan from nationalized or scheduled banks, which helps in reducing the initial financial outlay.
Non-Transferability of Vehicle: Vehicles purchased under the scheme cannot be sold or transferred to another individual during the tenure of the loan.
Vehicle Branding: The vehicle purchased with the subsidy must display a sign stating Subsidised by Karnataka Government as a mark of support.
Additional Support: Beneficiaries must contribute 10% of the vehicle’s cost from their funds to ensure a sense of responsibility and ownership.
Mandatory Permits: Passenger vehicles, such as auto-rickshaws, require specific permits in urban areas, which are a prerequisite for the beneficiaries to operate legally.
Eligibility Criteria for the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme
To avail of the benefits of the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Scheduled Tribe (ST) Status: The applicant must belong to a Scheduled Tribe community in Karnataka.
Permanent Resident: The applicant should be a permanent resident of Karnataka.
Age Limit: The applicant must be between 18 and 55 years of age.
Income Criteria: The total annual family income should not exceed ₹6.00 Lakhs from all sources.
Government Employment: No member of the applicant’s family should be employed by the State or Central Government or in Public Sector Units.
Driving License: The applicant must possess a valid driving license issued by the Regional Transport Authority for the relevant vehicle type.
No Previous Vehicle Loans: The applicant and their family members must not have availed of any vehicle loans under any state government schemes previously.
Loan Status: The applicant should not be a loan defaulter under any state government scheme or financial institution.
Documents Required for the Application
To successfully apply for the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme, the following documents are required:
Online Application: Complete the online application form available on the official portal.
Passport Photographs: Two recent passport-size photographs of the beneficiary.
Caste and Income Certificate: A valid certificate confirming the applicant’s caste and income eligibility.
Aadhaar Card: A copy of the Aadhaar card to verify identity.
Driving License: A copy of the applicant’s valid driving license.
Affidavit for Non-Availing Vehicle Loan: An affidavit declaring that neither the applicant nor their family members have availed of any vehicle loan under any state government scheme.
Affidavit for Non-Transfer of Vehicle: An affidavit confirming that the vehicle purchased under the scheme will not be transferred during the loan period.
Step-by-Step Application Process for the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme
The application process for the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme is simple and can be completed online. Follow these steps to successfully apply for the vehicle subsidy:
Apply Online
Visit the Official Portal: The first step is to visit the official portal of the Karnataka Government for the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme. You can find the online application form on this portal.
Fill Out the Application Form: Carefully fill in the application form with all the required details. This includes personal information such as your name, address, and contact details, as well as specific information about the vehicle you plan to purchase (make, model, type, etc.).
Ensure Accuracy: It is crucial to provide accurate information while filling out the form to avoid any discrepancies or delays in the processing of your application. Double-check the details before proceeding to the next step.
Submit Required Documents
Prepare Necessary Documents: Once your online application is completed, you need to upload scanned copies of all the required documents. These include:
Passport Photographs: Two recent passport-size photographs of the applicant.
Aadhaar Card: A copy of the Aadhaar card to verify your identity.
Driving License: A valid driving license that allows you to operate the vehicle you intend to purchase under the scheme.
Caste Certificate: A certificate confirming your Scheduled Tribe (ST) status or other applicable caste eligibility as per the scheme’s guidelines.
Income Certificate: A certificate that confirms your family’s annual income does not exceed ₹6.00 Lakhs, ensuring you meet the income eligibility requirements.
Affidavits: You will need to submit an affidavit confirming that neither you nor any of your family members have availed of any vehicle loan under any state government scheme, and another affidavit ensuring that the vehicle purchased under the scheme will not be transferred during the loan period.
Upload the Documents: Scan all the necessary documents and upload them through the online portal. Ensure the documents are clear, legible, and meet the specified requirements.
Loan Approval from the Bank
Loan Application: After submitting your application, the next step is to secure approval for a loan to finance the vehicle purchase. As part of the scheme, you need to apply for a loan with a nationalized or scheduled bank to cover the remaining cost of the vehicle after the subsidy is applied.
Provide Necessary Information: The bank may require additional documentation or proof of eligibility before they approve the loan. You may be asked to submit details of the vehicle’s price, your income details, and any other relevant information.
Loan Approval: Once the bank processes your application and approves the loan, they will issue an approval letter. This letter confirms that you have qualified for the loan, which is required before you can proceed to the next stage.
Loan Agreement
Review the Loan Terms: After receiving loan approval, you will be required to review and sign the loan agreement with the bank. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the loan, including the interest rate, repayment period, and any other relevant terms.
Sign the Agreement: Once you agree to the terms, sign the loan agreement. The bank will retain a copy, and you will be given a copy for your records. This agreement formalizes the loan process and sets the stage for the vehicle purchase.
Certification of Beneficiary
Photograph with Vehicle: A District Manager will be assigned to verify the application and ensure that the process is moving forward smoothly. As part of this, the District Manager will certify that a photograph of you (the beneficiary) with the purchased vehicle is included in your application file.
Verification Process: This photograph serves as proof that the vehicle purchased under the scheme is for your use, and it helps ensure that the scheme’s guidelines are being followed. It is important that the photograph is clear and meets the requirements for submission.
Submit the Application
Review Your Application: Before final submission, ensure that all the required documents are uploaded, the loan agreement has been signed, and all necessary information has been filled out correctly. This is the final step to ensure that your application is complete.
Submit the Application: Once everything is in place, submit your completed application through the online portal. After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment from the portal confirming that your application has been received.
Track Your Application: After submission, you can track the status of your application through the portal. If any additional documents or information are required, the portal will notify you.
By following these steps, you can successfully apply for the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme and take advantage of the financial assistance provided by the Karnataka Government for purchasing a commercial vehicle. This step-by-step approach ensures that the process is simple, transparent, and accessible for all eligible beneficiaries.
Why the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme Matters
The Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme plays a vital role in promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship among Scheduled Tribe youth and women. By providing financial support, the scheme helps reduce the financial barriers that often prevent individuals from entering the transportation sector. Additionally, the inclusion of women in this scheme helps promote gender equality and provides an opportunity for them to establish themselves as business owners in the transport industry.
Moreover, the scheme is crucial for the development of the transportation sector in Karnataka. By encouraging self-employment in the transportation business, the government is not only providing individuals with the means to support themselves but also contributing to the overall improvement of transportation services in both urban and rural areas.
Customer Care for Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme
For any queries or assistance regarding the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme or the application process, you can reach out to the Karnataka Minorities Development Corporation Limited (KMDC) through the following contact details:
WhatsApp Helpline: 08277799990
You can use this number to get quick responses to your queries via WhatsApp.
Helpline Number: 080-22860999
For general inquiries and support, you can contact the KMDC helpline.
Helpdesk Email: For detailed inquiries or if you require assistance via email, you can reach the KMDC support team at any of the following email addresses:
- kmdc.ho.info@karnataka.gov.in
- mwdhelpline@karnataka.gov.in
- info.kmdc@karnataka.gov.in
These contact details will help you stay connected and get timely support for your application or any other queries regarding the Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme.
Conclusion
The Savalambhi Sarathi Scheme is a significant initiative by the Karnataka Government, specifically designed to empower Scheduled Tribe youth and women to become self-employed in the transportation sector. With generous financial assistance in the form of subsidies and loans, the scheme makes it easier for individuals to purchase vehicles for business use. This program will not only enhance the transportation infrastructure in Karnataka but also encourage entrepreneurship, economic independence, and gender equality. Through this initiative, the government is taking a significant step towards a self-sufficient and economically prosperous community in the state.