The “Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank: For Handloom and Other Non-Farm Sector Activities” is a state initiative by the Co-operation, Food and Consumer Protection Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. This scheme aims to support farmers who wish to diversify their income beyond traditional agriculture by engaging in handloom and other non-farm activities. The scheme provides loans up to ₹2,00,000 at affordable interest rates through the Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (PCARDBs).
Highlights of PCARD Bank Loan in Tamil Nadu
• Scheme Name: Handloom and Non-Farm Sector Loan Scheme – PCARDB
• Implemented By: Co-operation, Food and Consumer Protection Department, Tamil Nadu
• Target Group: Farmers in Tamil Nadu engaged in handloom or non-farm sector activities
• Loan Amount: Up to ₹2,00,000/-
• Interest Rate: 11% to 12.5% (subject to change)
• Application Mode: Offline via PCARDB offices
Objectives of the Scheme
• Encourage income diversification among farmers by supporting handloom and non-farm ventures
• Provide financial assistance to farmers interested in rural-based non-agricultural income generation
• Strengthen rural entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities
• Promote sustainable livelihoods through access to structured credit
Key Benefits
• Loan of up to ₹2 lakh based on the project cost
• Competitive interest rates between 11% and 12.5% (subject to revision by the department)
• Access to formal credit from cooperative banks for handloom and non-farm activities
• Loan available for a wide range of rural, craft, and micro-enterprise sectors
Eligibility Criteria
• Applicant must be a resident of Tamil Nadu
• Must be a farmer by profession
• Should be engaged in or planning handloom or other non-farm sector activities
• Must intend to use the loan amount exclusively for eligible non-farm purposes
• Must approach the Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank (PCARDB) in their area
Eligible Non-Farm Activities
• Handloom weaving and allied textile activities
• Rural crafts and artisan work
• Small-scale food processing
• Poultry, dairy, or fisheries-related micro-businesses
• Village-based trading, repair services, and equipment rental
• Rural tourism, home-based industries, tailoring, carpentry, etc.
How to Apply – Offline Procedure
Step 1: Visit the nearest Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank (PCARDB)
Step 2: Collect the prescribed application form from the Secretary or Special Officer
Step 3: Fill in the form accurately, paste a passport-size photograph, and attach all self-attested required documents
Step 4: Submit the completed form to the respective officer and request an acknowledgment/receipt with the application date and reference ID
Step 5: Follow up with the PCARDB for further verification, loan processing, and approval
Necessary Documents for Application
• Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card
• Address Proof: Ration Card, Utility Bills, Voter ID, etc.
• Proof of Agricultural Occupation (such as land records or income certificate)
• Activity/Project Details (description of the non-farm venture if applicable)
• Any other documents as required by the loan officer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the objective of this scheme?
A: To provide loans to farmers in Tamil Nadu for engaging in handloom or other non-farm income-generating activities.
Q: Who can apply for this scheme?
A: Farmers residing in Tamil Nadu who are already involved in or plan to start handloom or non-farm sector activities.
Q: What is the maximum loan amount available?
A: Up to ₹2,00,000 based on the proposed project cost.
Q: What is the interest rate on the loan?
A: Between 11% and 12.5%, subject to revision by the department.
Q: Are there income restrictions for applying?
A: No specific income restriction is mentioned; the key requirement is the farmer’s involvement in eligible activities.
Q: What qualifies as ‘non-farm sector activities’?
A: Handloom, rural craft, small processing units, dairy, poultry, tailoring, and similar micro-enterprises.
Q: How can applicants contact the bank?
A: By visiting the nearest PCARDB office or contacting the Secretary/Special Officer of the respective cooperative bank.
References & Important Links
• Tamil Nadu Co-operation, Food and Consumer Protection Department
• Guidelines available at Primary Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank
• District Cooperative Bank/PCARDB offices across Tamil Nadu
