Maharashtra to promote backward class entrepreneurs

State also strengthens single window system for early issue of clearances to industrial units

The BJP-led government in Maharashtra, in a bid to further strengthen its investor friendly image, on Tuesday announced formation of a separate cell under its single window scheme for providing number of approvals at one place within a stipulated time.

Besides, the government also said that 20% of its industrial plots will be reserved for scheduled castes at a cheaper rates. Both these decisions were declared ahead of Make In India week to be observed during February 13 -18 in Mumbai.

The list of approvals and permission will be notified as per the provision of the Maharashtra Right to Public Services Act, 2015.

A committee headed by the industries secretary will be delegated powers to make suitable changes in the list of permission and approvals in future. An online wallet will be made available for the payment of processing fee.

Meanwhile, the government has decided to provide interest subsidy to micro, small and medium enterprises for the new manufacturing unit being promoted by an investor from the backward class.

Besides, capital subsidy of 15 to 30% will be provided for units coming up in remote and under developed areas. For start up unit additional 10% incentive will be given. A subsidy in electricity duty will be offered for five years after payment of due charges for use of power.

These sops are being offered on the lines of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka who hav e put in a framework to encourage youngsters from backward classes to turn entrepreneurs.