Jeyaraj Allwyn

Expert

Published on: Sep 16, 2026

Micro Financing Schemes Of NBCFDC

"The poor stay poor not because they are lazy but because they have no access to capital."

- Milton Friedman

This article provides insights into the Micro Financing schemes under the aegis of National Backward Classes Finance & Development Corporation (NBCFDC). We will explore the salient features, eligibility criteria, and the financial pattern of these schemes.

Understanding Micro Financing

Microfinance identifies economically disadvantaged individuals as rich sources of energy and knowledge. It empowers these individuals by providing financial tools necessary for self-sufficiency, as opposed to mere handouts. This approach addresses poverty through sustainable financial solutions, enabling underprivileged communities to thrive.

Role of National Backward Classes Finance & Development Corporation (NBCFDC)

The NBCFDC functions under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, focusing on economic and developmental activities for the Backward Classes. It aids the weaker segments in skill development and self-employment initiatives.

Finance is provided through State Channelising Agencies (SCAs) and Self Help Groups (SHGs). NBCFDC supports self-employment in various sectors including:

  • Agriculture and Allied Activities.
  • Small Business ventures.
  • Artisan and Traditional Occupations.
  • Technical and Professional Trades/Courses.
  • Transport and Service Sector.
Microfinancing

Key Financing Schemes of NBCFDC

  • Micro Finance
  • Mahila Samriddhi Yojana
  • Small Loan Scheme

Primary Objectives

Micro Finance: This scheme serves the microfinance needs of small entrepreneurs within the target group, facilitated through nominated Channelising Agencies.

Mahila Samriddhi Yojana: Aimed at providing microfinance to women entrepreneurs in the target group, fostering their growth and self-sufficiency.

Small Loan Scheme: Offers microfinance to individuals starting small businesses.

Note: All schemes have a maximum loan limit of Rs.60,000/- per beneficiary, and SHGs can have up to 20 women members.

Comparative Analysis of Schemes

MICROFINANCEMAHILA SAMRIDDHI YOJANASMALL LOAN SCHEME
ImplementationImplemented through SCAs in both rural and urban regions, focusing on unserved areas.Executed by Channel Partners in rural and urban settings, prioritizing previously untouched regions.Rolled out via SCAs/Banks.
Eligibility of the BeneficiaryMembers of Backward Classes below twice the poverty line (below Rs.3.00 Lakh).SCA/Banks must allocate at least 50% of funding to individuals with an annual family income up to Rs.1.50 Lakh.75% of an SHG's members must be from Backward Classes; remaining 25% may include other weaker sections.Women from Backward Classes, living below twice the poverty line, with an annual family income of less than Rs.3.00 Lakh.At least 50% of funds go to those with family income under Rs.1.50 Lakh.Applicants from Backward Classes below twice the poverty line.Annual family income must be under Rs.3.00 Lakh.50% of funds should target families earning below Rs.1.50 Lakh annually.
Pattern of Finance1. NBCFDC loan: 90%
2. SCA/Bank Loan: 5%
3. Beneficiary Contribution: 5%
1. NBCFDC Loan: 95%
2. SCA/Beneficiary Contribution: 5%
1. NBCFDC Loan: 85%
2. SCA/Bank Loan: 10%
3. Beneficiary Contribution: 5%
Utilization PeriodFour months from disbursementFour months from disbursementNot Applicable
Rate of Interest1. From NBCFDC to SCA: 2% p.a.
2. SCA to SHG: 5% p.a.
1. From NBCFDC to SCA: 1% p.a.
2. SCA to Beneficiary: 4% p.a.
1. From NBCFDC to Channel Partner: 3% p.a.
2. SCA/Bank to Beneficiary: 6% p.a.
RepaymentQuarterly installments within 48 monthsQuarterly installments within 48 monthsTen years

Complementary to these schemes, other developmental initiatives such as Handloom Weavers' Loan Waiver Scheme align with NBCFDC's mission, promoting financial independence among marginalized communities. For further expansion into related sectors, explore details on Land Accelerator South Asia 2022 and developments in retail franchises.

For those seeking additional guidance on financial management and entrepreneurship, consider learning about income tax rates for proprietorships and business registration, as they are integral to fostering sustainable growth within underrepresented communities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Micro Financing Schemes by NBCFDC for Backward Classes.

The micro-financing schemes under NBCFDC aim to provide financial assistance and support to small entrepreneurs and individuals belonging to backward classes. The schemes cater to their micro-finance needs, enabling them to start or expand their self-employment ventures and improve their economic conditions.
The micro-financing schemes are primarily targeted at members of backward classes who are living below double the poverty line (annual family income below Rs. 3.00 Lakh). The SCAs/Banks are instructed to release at least 50% of the total funding to individuals with an annual family income up to Rs. 1.50 Lakh.
The financing pattern varies slightly across the schemes. Generally, NBCFDC provides a significant portion (85-95%) of the loan amount, while the SCA/Bank contributes a smaller percentage (5-10%), and the beneficiary contributes a marginal amount (5%).
The interest rates are kept relatively low to make the loans affordable. The interest rate charged by NBCFDC to the SCA/Bank ranges from 1% to 3% per annum. The SCA/Bank then charges a slightly higher rate of 4% to 6% per annum to the beneficiaries.
The repayment period for the loans under the Micro Finance and Mahila Samriddhi Yojana schemes is 48 months (4 years), with quarterly installments. The Small Loan Scheme has a longer repayment period of 10 years.
The maximum loan limit per beneficiary under all the micro-financing schemes of NBCFDC is Rs. 60,000.
Yes, the NBCFDC micro-financing schemes can be implemented through SHGs, particularly in rural and urban areas that have not been covered by similar schemes before. In an SHG, up to 75% of the members can be from backward classes, and the remaining 25% can be from other weaker sections.
The micro-financing schemes under NBCFDC support various sectors and activities, including agriculture and allied activities, small businesses, artisan and traditional occupations, technical and professional trades/courses, transport, and service sectors.
NBCFDC implements these schemes through State Channelising Agencies (SCAs) and banks, which are responsible for identifying and financing the eligible beneficiaries from backward classes, either directly or through SHGs.
Yes, under the Mahila Samriddhi Yojana scheme, which specifically targets women entrepreneurs from backward classes, the maximum number of women in an SHG is limited to 20.