The Swachhta Udyami Yojana (SUY), launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, is a unique initiative to empower Safai Karamcharis, Manual Scavengers, Waste Pickers, and their dependents through sanitation-linked income generation.

Implemented through State Channelising Agencies (SCAs), Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), and Public Sector Banks (PSBs) under the National Safai Karamcharis Finance & Development Corporation (NSKFDC), this scheme provides capital subsidy and soft loans for sanitation-based vehicles and viable businesses.

Key Highlights of SUY for Sanitation Workers

• Scheme Name: Swachhta Udyami Yojana (SUY)

• Launched By: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

• Implementing Agency: NSKFDC via SCAs/RRBs/PSBs

• Target Group: Safai Karamcharis, Manual Scavengers, Waste Pickers, and their dependents

• Purpose: For purchasing sanitation vehicles and income-generating assets

• Loan Amount: Up to ₹50 Lakhs

• Interest Rate: 4% per annum

• Rebate:

  • 1% for women beneficiaries

  • 0.5% for timely repayment

Capital Subsidy Structure

💡 Note: No beneficiary contribution is required. Remaining amount is covered as loan under SUY.

Benefits of the Scheme

• Soft loan up to ₹50 lakh at 4% interest for sanitation-linked activities

• Capital subsidy up to ₹3.25 lakh depending on unit cost

• No own investment needed by beneficiary

• Rebates for women and timely payers

• Supports entrepreneurship, dignity, and livelihood upliftment

Repayment Terms

• Repayment Period: Up to 10 years

• Implementation Period: 4 months

• Moratorium Period: 6 months (beyond implementation)

• Flexible EMI structure based on viability and income potential

Eligibility Criteria

• Must belong to any of the following groups:

  • Safai Karamcharis (including Waste Pickers)

  • Identified Manual Scavengers

  • Dependents of the above categories

• Cooperative societies or legally constituted associations/firms of the target group are eligible

• Must produce a valid Occupation Certificate from:

  • Local municipal/revenue/cantonment/railway officers

  • Gram Panchayat Pradhan / Mukhia / Elected municipal member

  • Or be listed under the final MS Act 2013 Manual Scavenger Survey

• Domestic workers are excluded

How to Apply – Online & Offline Process

Step 1: Submit your loan application to the district office of the respective SCA / RRB / PSB.

Step 2: Application is reviewed and sent to the head offices of SCA/Banks for detailed appraisal.

Step 3: The Proposal is forwarded to NSKFDC’s Project Appraisal Committee for approval.

Step 4: If approved by NSKFDC’s Board of Directors, a sanction letter is issued by the lending agency.

Step 5: On acceptance of terms, funds are released to the beneficiary by the SCA/Bank.

Necessary Documents for Application

• PAN Card

• Address Proof (Aadhaar, Ration Card, etc.)

• Occupation Certificate

• Work Assurance Letter (if available)

• Work Report or proposal

• Three Quotations for sanitation equipment/vehicles

• Any other relevant documents as per agency guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who is eligible for SUY?
A: Safai Karamcharis, Manual Scavengers, Waste Pickers, their dependents, and their co-operative societies.

Q: What is the moratorium period under SUY?
A: 6 months post-implementation period of 4 months.

Q: Is there any subsidy provided under the scheme?
A: Yes, capital subsidy up to ₹3.25 lakh depending on unit cost.

Q: I am a Domestic Worker. Am I eligible?
A: No, domestic workers are excluded from this scheme.

Q: I am a Waste Picker. Can I apply?
A: Yes, Waste Pickers are included under the eligible categories.

Q: Can women beneficiaries get any extra benefits?
A: Yes, a 1% interest rebate per annum is given to women.

References & Useful Links

• NSKFDC Official Website

• Manual Scavenger Survey Data 2018

• Scheme Guidelines – SUY PDF