The West Bengal government has introduced numerous self-help group and self-employment schemes aimed at empowering women and enhancing the livelihoods of individuals throughout the state. This article provides an updated list of various schemes initiated by the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, under the WB Self Help Group and Self Employment Department.
The Self Help Group & Self Employment (SHG & SE) Department was established in July 2006 under an amendment in the rule of business by the West Bengal government. The office is located at EAST INDIA HOUSE (1st Floor), 20B Abdul Hamid Street, Kolkata-700 069. Below is a comprehensive list of the schemes offered by the state.
WB Self Help Group and Self Employment Schemes List
Here is the updated list of Self Help Group and Self Employment Schemes:
| S.No | Scheme |
| 1 | Swami Vivekananda Swanirbharkarmasansthan Prakalpa (SVSKP) |
| 2 | West Bengal Swanirbhar Sahayak Prakalpa (WBSSP) |
| 3 | Skill Development Training for SHG members and entrepreneurs |
| 4 | Organization of Fairs & Exhibitions |
| 5 | Construction of Training-cum-Marketing Complexes (Karmatirtha) |
| 6 | Personal Accident Insurance Scheme for SHGs |
| 7 | Muktidhara (Sustainable Livelihood Project) |
Details of West Bengal Self Help Group and Self Employment Schemes
1. Swami Vivekananda Swanirbhar Karmasansthan Prakalpa (SVSKP): This flagship scheme aims to create self-employment opportunities for unemployed youth, including individuals from backward classes, minorities, and women across West Bengal. Eligible individuals or groups can receive bank financing with a government subsidy of up to ₹1.5 lakh for individuals and ₹3.5 lakh for groups of five or more. The program encourages self-employment and institutions provide training to help beneficiaries start their projects.
2. West Bengal Swanirbhar Sahayak Prakalpa (WBSSP): To alleviate the interest burden on loans taken by SHGs, this scheme provides interest subsidies. As of April 1, 2014, the government subsidizes the interest charged by banks, covering 9% of the interest rate, leaving beneficiaries to pay only 2% annually.
3. Skill Development Training for SHG members and entrepreneurs: This initiative aims to enhance skills and improve product quality for self-employed individuals. Training covers various trades and is conducted through district-level functionaries and WBSCL.
- Examples of trainings include: Tailoring, Jute Product Manufacturing, Organic Farming, and Vermi Compost Production.
4. Organization of Fairs & Exhibitions: Regular fairs and exhibitions are conducted to help self-employed entrepreneurs market their products and connect with potential buyers. The department also organizes state and district-level events to showcase products made by SHGs.
5. Construction of Training-cum-Marketing Complexes (Karmatirtha): The objective is to establish projects for training and marketing within districts, benefitting SHG members by enhancing skill development and product marketing.
6. Personal Accident Insurance Scheme for SHGs: This insurance scheme offers coverage for SHG members, providing financial compensation for accidental death and other associated costs, thereby enhancing the financial security of the members.
- Coverage includes up to ₹2 lakh for accidental death and various other benefits for medical treatment and disablement.
7. Muktidhara (Sustainable Livelihood Project): Launched in 2012-13, this project aims to establish sustainable livelihoods for SHG members. Initially implemented in Purulia and Paschim Medinipur, it is expanding to seven additional districts involving collaborations with NABARD.
For further details on the Self Help Group and Self Employment Schemes, visit the official West Bengal government website: Official Website
Read: West Bengal Bina Mulya Samajik Suraksha Yojana List 2025
