Karnataka SC/ST welfare schemes 2025-26 focus on economic development through self-employment, subsidies, and loans. Learn eligibility, application process, and government benefits.
Introduction
The Government of Karnataka continues its commitment to economic upliftment of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) through a range of welfare schemes for 2025–26. These schemes aim to create employment, promote self-reliance, support entrepreneurship, and provide subsidies for small businesses and farming.
In this blog, we cover:
- List of major SC/ST welfare schemes in Karnataka 2025–26
- Eligibility criteria and required documents
- How to apply online/offline
- Nodal agencies managing the schemes
Major SC/ST Economic Development Welfare Schemes in Karnataka (2025–26)
1. Self-Employment Loan Scheme (ಸ್ವಯಂ ಉದ್ಯೋಗ ನೇರಸಾಲ ಯೋಜನೆ)
Provides financial support to unemployed SC/ST youth to start small businesses or trade ventures.
- Benefit: Up to ₹1 lakh (subsidy + loan)
- Eligibility: 18–60 years, Karnataka resident, no family member in govt service
2. Entrepreneurship Development Programme
Encourages SC/ST entrepreneurs to start manufacturing, service, or trade units.
- Subsidy: 50% of project cost
- Loan: Balance from banks or institutions
3. Micro-Credit (Prerana) Scheme
Targeted at SC/ST women self-help groups (SHGs).
- Support: Up to ₹2,50,000 per group of 10 members
4. Ganga Kalyana Scheme
- Purpose: Borewell, open well, pump set installation for irrigation
- Benefit: ₹3 lakh subsidy
5. Land Purchase Scheme
Assists landless SC/ST women farmers to buy agricultural land.
- Support: 50% subsidy + 50% institutional loan
6. Animal Husbandry & Scheme Business Schemes
Includes dairy, goat/sheep farming, piggery, mobile kitchens, and driver self-employment schemes.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must belong to Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe category
- Age: 18–60 years
- Minimum 15 years residency in Karnataka
- No government/PSU employee in the family
- Annual family income as per government norms
- Caste Certificate
- Income Certificate
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- Ration Card
- Bank Account Passbook
- Project Proposal (for self-employment/business)
- Land ownership certificate (if applicable)
Required Documents
How to Apply
Online Application through Scheme Sindhu Portal
- Visit: sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in
- Select the relevant welfare scheme
- Upload scanned documents and submit
Offline Application
- Visit your District Social Welfare Office or respective development corporation offices:
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Development Corporation
- Karnataka Adijambava Development Corporation
- Maharshi Valmiki Development Corporation
Note: Deadlines for application vary by scheme. Check the official notifications for updates
Conclusion
The Karnataka government’s SC/ST welfare schemes for 2025–26 are designed to empower marginalized communities through entrepreneurship, skill development, and financial assistance. Whether you are planning to start a small business, purchase land, or upgrade your farming methods — these schemes offer the necessary support.
If you qualify, don’t miss the opportunity to apply and take a step towards economic self-reliance. Visit the Seva Sindhu portal or your district development corporation office to get started today.
