Which programme was launched by the Indian Government to promote entrepreneurship among women and SC/ST communities?

Correct option is D

Correct Answer: (d) Stand-Up India

Explanation:
The Stand-Up India programme was launched by the Government of India in April 2016 to promote entrepreneurship among women and individuals belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities. The scheme aims to provide financial assistance for setting up greenfield enterprises in manufacturing, services, and trading sectors, thereby fostering economic empowerment and job creation.

Key Features of Stand-Up India:
● Target Group: Women, SC, and ST entrepreneurs.
● Loan Amount: Provides loans between ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore.
● Objective: To encourage entrepreneurship and financial inclusion in marginalized communities.
● Repayment Period: Up to 7 years with a moratorium of up to 18 months.
● Implementation: Managed through Scheduled Commercial Banks, with SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) as the nodal agency.

Knowledge Booster:
● The scheme mandates each bank branch to provide loans to at least one woman and one SC/ST entrepreneur.
● It complements other initiatives like Make in India and Startup India.
● Encourages the creation of jobs and boosts the socio-economic development of weaker sections.
● Provides handholding support, including mentorship, legal aid, and business plan preparation.
● Aligned with the government’s goal of inclusive economic growth.

·         Additional Information:
● Digital India (Option a): Focuses on digital empowerment and e-governance, not entrepreneurship.
● Start India (Option b): Likely confused with Startup India, which promotes startups but is not specific to women or SC/ST communities.
● Skill (Option c): Refers to Skill India, focusing on youth skill development, not financial assistance.