Incentives and Subsidies for MSMEs in India

Introduction

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in India’s economic growth by contributing significantly to employment generation, GDP, and exports. Recognizing their importance, the Government of India offers various incentives and subsidies to support MSMEs in accessing finance, upgrading technology, expanding market reach, and improving competitiveness.

This blog provides an in-depth overview of the incentives and subsidies available for MSMEs in India.

 

Incentives for MSMEs

  1. Tax Benefits
  • Concessional Tax Rates: MSMEs with a turnover under ₹400 crore can benefit from a reduced corporate tax rate of 25%.
  • Presumptive Taxation: Businesses with a turnover of up to ₹3 crore can simplify tax filing through presumptive taxation under Section 44AD.
  • Tax Holidays: MSMEs can avail tax exemptions for up to five years, while startups can benefit from profit-linked holidays under Section 80-IAC.
  1. Credit and Financial Support
  • Credit Guarantee Scheme: Provides credit guarantee support for collateral-free loans to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).
  • Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS): Offers a 15% subsidy on additional investments up to ₹1 crore for MSMEs upgrading to state-of-the-art technology.
  • Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP): Supports self-employment ventures with margin money subsidies and financial assistance.
  • Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): Provides collateral-free loans to micro-enterprises.
  • Increased Credit Guarantee Cover: The cover for MSMEs has been raised from ₹5 crore to ₹10 crore, enabling additional credit of ₹1.5 lakh crore over five years.
  • Enhanced Guarantee Cover for Exporter MSMEs: Export-oriented MSMEs can avail term loans up to ₹20 crore with enhanced guarantee cover.
  1. Other Incentives
  • ISO 9000 Certification and Reimbursement Scheme: Provides financial assistance for MSMEs to obtain ISO 9000 certification.
  • Participation in International Fairs: Government support for MSMEs to promote their products and services internationally.
  • Purchase and Price Preference Policy: Gives preference to MSME products in government procurement.
  • Market Promotion & Development Scheme (MPDA): Supports MSMEs in domestic and international market expansion.
  • Revamped Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI): Assists in the development and regeneration of traditional industries.
  • Micro and Small Enterprises Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP): Aims to create and upgrade infrastructure facilities in MSME clusters.
  • Incentives for Doubling of Export Values: Provides financial assistance to MSMEs that double their export value over the previous year.

Subsidies for MSMEs

  1. Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS)

Objective:

To help MSMEs upgrade their technology by providing financial assistance.

Subsidy:

  • 15% subsidy on capital investment (up to ₹15 lakh) for plant and machinery.
  • Encourages modernization and automation.

Benefits:

  • Reduces cost of upgrading equipment.
  • Improves production efficiency and product quality.

 

  1. Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)

Objective:

To promote self-employment and entrepreneurship by providing financial aid to new businesses.

Subsidy:

  • 15-35% of the project cost based on location and category.
  • Maximum project cost: ₹25 lakh (manufacturing) and ₹10 lakh (service sector).

Benefits:

  • Encourages new business ventures.
  • Generates employment opportunities in rural and urban areas.

 

  1. MUDRA Loan Scheme

Objective:

To provide collateral-free loans to small businesses and startups.

Subsidy:

  • Loan categories:
    • Shishu: Up to ₹50,000 (for startups)
    • Kishor: ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh (for growing businesses)
    • Tarun: ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh (for established MSMEs)

Benefits:

  • Easy access to finance without collateral.
  • Encourages financial inclusion for small businesses.

 

  1. Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme

Objective:

To support MSMEs in expanding their business to international markets.

Subsidy:

  • Covers expenses for trade fairs, exhibitions, and export promotion programs.

Benefits:

  • Helps MSMEs explore global markets.
  • Reduces marketing costs for export-oriented businesses.

 

  1. Technology and Quality Upgradation Support Scheme

Objective:

To promote the adoption of energy-efficient and environment-friendly technology among MSMEs.

Subsidy:

  • Covers up to 75% of the cost of quality certification.
  • Provides financial aid for energy audits and modern technology adoption.

Benefits:

  • Encourages sustainable business practices.
  • Enhances competitiveness through quality improvements.

 

  1. Interest Subvention Scheme for MSMEs

Objective:

To provide interest rate relief on MSME loans.

Subsidy:

  • 2% interest subsidy on loans up to ₹1 crore.

Benefits:

  • Reduces financial burden on small businesses.
  • Makes credit more affordable.

 

  1. Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) Certification Scheme

Objective:

To enhance the quality and environmental sustainability of MSMEs.

Subsidy:

  • Financial support for ZED certification.
  • Up to 50% reimbursement on certification costs.

Benefits:

  • Improves product quality and market credibility.
  • Encourages sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

 

  1. Micro & Small Enterprises Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP)

Objective:

To develop industrial clusters and improve infrastructure for MSMEs.

Subsidy:

  • Covers up to 60% of project costs for infrastructure development.
  • Provides financial aid for setting up MSME clusters.

Benefits:

  • Encourages collective growth of small businesses.
  • Reduces operational costs through shared resources.

 

  1. National SC/ST Hub Scheme

Objective:

To promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST communities.

Subsidy:

  • Covers branding, marketing, and trade fair participation costs.
  • Provides financial support for skill development.

Benefits:

  • Encourages social inclusion in business.
  • Helps SC/ST entrepreneurs scale up operations.

 

  1. Stand-Up India Scheme

Objective:

To support women and SC/ST entrepreneurs.

Subsidy:

  • Loans between ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore.
  • 25% subsidy on project cost.

Benefits:

  • Encourages diversity in business ownership.

Supports startups and job creation.

Conclusion

MSME incentives and subsidies in India play a crucial role in promoting entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses, and driving economic growth. By availing these benefits, MSMEs can overcome financial hurdles, improve productivity, and expand into new markets.

If you’re an MSME owner, explore these incentives and subsidies to take your business to the next level!