Union Budget: DICCI wants FM to allocate Rs 200 cr each for SC and ST entrepreneurs

Pune, Jan 24 (KNN) The Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DICCI) wants Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to allocate Rs 200 crores each for Schedules Caste and Scheduled Tribe entrepreneurs.

As the Union Budget is to be unveiled in a week’s time from now, the different sectors of the industry are putting up their demands for consideration before the Finance Minister.

DICCI, one of the important stakeholders in National SC/ ST Hub, has urged the Finance Minister to consider measures to boost the entrepreneurs.

Talking to KNN, Milind Kamble, Chairman, DICCI, said, “There should be allocation of Rs 200 crores for SC entrepreneurs and another Rs 200 crores for ST entrepreneurs.”

He also sought relaxation in interest rate for loans under Stand-up India scheme.

While considering the budget to be very crucial in the present scenario post demonetization, DICCI had sent proposal to the finance ministry which included various issues which the chamber is expecting that government should look into seriously.

“We already sent proposal to the finance ministry. The effective rate of interest comes to nearly 14% to 15% which is very high, therefore it needs to be relooked at,” said Kamble.

According to Kamble there should be additional fund allocation and tax benefits provided to SC/ ST Entrepreneurs.

“There should be allotment of additional funds of rupees 200 crores for the Venture Capital promoted by IFCI for SC Entrepreneurs. Tax Benefits should be provided to companies that source products and services from SC/ST Entrepreneurs,” said Kamble. (KNN Bureau)