housands of loan applications under Annal Ambedkar Business Champions Scheme (AABCS) implemented by the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) department have been rejected allegedly without giving a reason, according to an RTI activist.
AABCS is a state scheme launched to promote the economic development of SC/ST entrepreneurs. Under the scheme, the state government provides a 35% capital subsidy on the eligible project cost and a 6% interest subvention for loans sanctioned.
According to an RTI reply, of the 12,472 people who had applied for loans under AABCS for 2023-24, only 1,389 people got the nod. For 2024-25, around 5,157 people applied, but only 906 got the approval (up to December 31, 2024). As many as 11,083 applications were rejected for 2023-24, while the number for 2024-25 was 4,251.
AABCS Scheme 2025
According to RTI activist S Karthick, no reason was shared by the department for the rejection.Karthick told TNIE, “As the scheme aims to improve business and economic life of weaker sections of the society. Despite asking the reason for rejections, MSME authorities gave no proper response. A committee must be formed in each district to find out the reasons for the rejection.
Eligibility Criteria for AABCS Scheme 2025
To apply for the scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Farmers: Small, marginal, and medium-scale farmers with valid land records.
- Agri-Entrepreneurs: Individuals or groups engaged in agriculture-related businesses.
- FPOs/Cooperatives: ed Farmer Producer Organizations.
- Age Limit: 18-65 years.
- Income Criteria: Annual income should not exceed ₹8 lakhs for individual farmers.
- Aadhaar & Bank : Mandatory for direct benefit transfer (DBT).
Documents Required for AABCS Scheme Application
Before applying online, ensure you have the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card (mandatory)
- PAN Card (if applicable)
- Land ownership documents (or lease agreement)
- Bank details (linked with Aadhaar)
- Caste certificate (if applying under SC/ST quota)
- Recent port-size photograph
- Mobile number (ed with Aadhaar)
- Income certificate (if required)
Benefits of AABCS Scheme
- Financial :
- Subsidies on tools, raw materials, and machinery.
- Low-interest loans for artisans.
- Skill Development:
- Free training programs in modern craft techniques.
- Market Access:
- Assistance in selling products via government e-marketplaces.
- Social Security:
- Insurance coverage for artisans under PMJJBY/PMSBY.
- Women Empowerment:
- Special provisions for female artisans and SHGs.
Read More-TS Indiramma Mahila Shakti Scheme 2025
How to Apply for AABCS Scheme Online? (Step-by-Step Process)
The online application process is simple and can be completed in a few steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
- Go to the can visit the official AABCS website to apply for the AABCS Scheme online.
Step 2: as a New
- Click on “New Registration”.
- Enter details like Name, Mobile Number, Email, Aadhaar Number.
- Create a name and .
- via OTP sent to your mobile/email.
Step 3: to Your
- Use your credentials to .
- Select “Apply for AABCS Scheme”.
Step 4: Fill the Application Form
- Provide personal details (Name, DOB, Gender, Category).
- Enter professional details (Artisan type, Cooperative details).
- required documents (Aadhaar, Income Certificate, etc.).
Step 5: Submit & Acknowledgement
- Review all details before submission.
- Click “Submit” and note the application number.
- the acknowledgement receipt for future reference.
Step 6: Track Application Status
- Use the application number to track status online.
- Approval may take 15-30 days.