THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF SMALL SCALE INDUSTRIES AND AGRO AND RURAL INDUSTRIES (SMT. VASUNDHARA RAJE)
(a): The State-wise estimated number of registered SSI units as on 30th April, 2000 is given at Annexure.
(b) & (c): Yes, Sir. The new measures contemplated by the Government to encourage small scale industries consists of launching of Credit Guarantee Scheme to provide loans upto Rs. 10 lakhs without collaterals, measures to encourage technology upgradation and modernisation, setting up specialised bank branches and strengthening information technology network. The programmes launched for SC/ST and backward classes dominated areas consist of Integrated Infrastructural Development, Prime Minister`s Rozgar Yojana, entrepreneurship development etc. Integrated Infrastructural Development (IID) Centres have been sanctioned in the districts of Satna and Seoni in Madhya Pradesh to facilitate location of industries in rural and backward areas. Under the Prime Minister`s Rozgar Yojana, reservation of 22.5% for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes and 27% for other backward classes and age relaxation for SCs/STs are provided. To generate additional employment, Rural Employment Generation Programme (REGP) is being implemented by the KVIC. Under the Margin Money Scheme, KVIC provides higher grant for weaker sections such as SCs/STs and for hill and tribal areas, North-Eastern region, Sikkim, Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep. Under the hire purchase scheme, NSIC has launched a new scheme viz., SAMRIDHI for SC/ST entrepreneurs. SIDBI has sanctioned an assistance of Rs. 30 lakhs to an NGO for providing small loans to tribal communities at village Kesla, district Hoshangabad for undertaking poultry and related activities. The State Government under its new Industrial Policy has laid special emphasis on accelerated development of SSIs in rural areas and encouraging entrepreneurship among SCs/STs and OBCs.
(d): Does not arise.
