The Tamil Nadu Government has introduced the Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam to support artisans and foster entrepreneurship. This initiative benefits individuals involved in 25 handicrafts and industries, extending beyond traditional family businesses. It aims to enhance livelihoods by offering credit assistance, skill development, and entrepreneurship training, enabling artisans to establish or expand modern businesses. Eligible artisans can avail loans of up to Rs. 3 Lakh, with a 25% subsidy capped at Rs. 50,000 and an interest subsidy of up to 5%. The scheme also provides comprehensive support for business development.
Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam Overview
This initiative is designed to uplift artisans by offering financial and skill-based support, promoting sustainable livelihoods and self-reliance. It encourages innovation and modernization, helping artisans adapt to evolving market demands while preserving Tamil Nadu’s traditional craft heritage.
What is Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT)?
The Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT) is a scheme by the Tamil Nadu Government aimed at supporting artisans and craftspeople by improving their livelihoods and encouraging entrepreneurship. It promotes 25 handicrafts and industries, ensuring artisans from all backgrounds, not just traditional family businesses, can benefit. The scheme offers financial assistance, skill development, and entrepreneurship training to help artisans start new businesses or modernize existing ones. Eligible participants can access loans of up to Rs. 3 Lakh, with a 25% subsidy (up to Rs. 50,000) and an interest subsidy of up to 5%. Applicants must be at least 35 years old to qualify.
Key Highlights of Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the Scheme | Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam |
| Launched By | Government of Tamil Nadu |
| Purpose | To support artisans’ livelihoods and promote entrepreneurship |
| Target Beneficiaries | Artisans and individuals involved in 25 handicrafts and industries |
| Loan Amount | Up to Rs. 3 Lakh |
| Subsidy | 25% subsidy, up to Rs. 50,000 |
| Interest Subsidy | Up to 5% |
| Minimum Age | 35 years |
| Support Offered | Financial assistance, skill development, and entrepreneurship training |
| Business Focus | Starting new businesses and modernizing existing businesses |
| Scope | Benefits all artisans, not limited to family business practitioners |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Official Website | https://www.msmeonline.tn.gov.in/kkt/enclosures.php |
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a resident of Tamil Nadu.
- Minimum age requirement: 35 years.
- Open to individuals involved in 25 recognized handicrafts and industries.
- Applicants must aim to start a new business or expand an existing one.
Required Documents
- Aadhaar Card
- Age Proof Document
- Residence Proof
- Income Certificate
- Bank Account Details
- Proof of Handicraft/Industry Involvement
- Loan Application Form
Loan Amount and Subsidy
- Loan amount: Up to Rs. 3 Lakh.
- 25% subsidy on the loan, capped at Rs. 50,000.
- Interest subsidy: Up to 5%.
Trade List
Trades covered under Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam may include:
- Pottery and Ceramics
- Handloom Weaving
- Wood Carving
- Embroidery and Hand Stitching
- Bamboo and Cane Craft
- Jewelry Making (Handcrafted)
- Leather Craft
- Painting (Traditional and Decorative)
- Sculpture and Stone Carving
- Metal Craft (Brass, Copper, etc.)
- Basket Weaving
- Terracotta Products
- Toys and Doll Making
- Papercraft and Stationery Making
- Textile Printing (Block, Batik, etc.)
- Soap and Candle Making
- Shell Craft
- Coir Products Manufacturing
- Glass Craft and Decorative Items
- Beadwork and Accessories
- Carpentry and Furniture Making
- Traditional Musical Instruments
- Food Processing and Packaging
- Herbal Product Manufacturing
- Handicraft-based Home Décor
Salient Features
- Financial support for artisans in 25 handicrafts and industries.
- Loans of up to Rs. 3 Lakh with a 25% subsidy capped at Rs. 50,000.
- Interest subsidy of up to 5% to ease repayment.
- Focus on skill development and entrepreneurship training.
- Encourages modernization of traditional businesses.
- Open to individuals aged 35 years or above.
- Promotes self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
- Preserves Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage through crafts.
Selection Process
- Submit the application form with required documents.
- Verify eligibility criteria, including age, trade involvement, and residence.
- Authorities review the business plan or proposal.
- Conduct background checks to confirm suitability.
- Shortlist eligible applicants based on trade and financial need.
- Approve loans and subsidies for selected candidates.
- Provide guidance and training for skill development and business enhancement.
How to Apply Online
- Visit the official Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam website.
- Click on the “Apply Online” button on the homepage.
- Fill in personal details on the application page.
- Attach required documents.
- Submit the application.
How to Login
- Visit the official website.
- Click on the “Login” button on the homepage.
- Enter your registration number and password.
- Input the captcha code and click “Login” to access your account.
How to Track Application Status
- Visit the official website.
- Click on “Track Status” on the homepage.
- Enter your application number and phone number.
- Click “Submit” to view the status.
Helpline Numbers
- 22505011
- 22502053
- 22502018
- 22501007
- 22501073
