The Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT) is a scheme launched by the Tamil Nadu government to support traditional artisans and craftspeople in preserving and promoting their crafts.
Key Features:
- Financial Assistance: Eligible artisans can avail of loans up to ₹3 lakh, which includes a 25% subsidy (maximum ₹50,000).
- Interest Subvention: Beneficiaries receive a 5% interest subvention reimbursement.
- Skill and Entrepreneurship Training: Mandatory training programs are provided to enhance artisans' skills and business acumen.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: Applicants must be above 35 years old.
- Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in one of the 25 specified traditional trades is required.
- Subsidy Limit: Applicants should not have received any subsidy benefit greater than ₹1.5 lakh from Tamil Nadu government schemes in the past five years.
Application Process:
- Registration: Interested artisans can register through the official MSME Department portal. www.msmeonline.tn.gov.in
- Document Submission: Submit necessary documents, including proof of age, experience certificates, and details of the traditional craft.
- Training Enrollment: Upon verification, applicants will be enrolled in the mandatory skill and entrepreneurship training programs.
- Loan Disbursement: After successful completion of training, the loan amount, along with the subsidy, will be disbursed.