Does Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics support self-employment or financial assistance for women?

Depending on scheme guidelines, Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics may provide loans, subsidies, training support, self-employment assistance, or financial welfare benefits for women.

Can beneficiaries track application status for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?

Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.

ED/SC-ST-WISTEM

Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics

6.8/10

ED/SC-ST- WISTEM)” is aimed for exploring the potential of entrepreneurship along with improvement in the livelihood options for unemployed SC & ST women in Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) areas using tools of Science, Technology & Innovation.

State Composite

States / UT: Kerala

Nodal department: Science and Technology Department

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): No

Categories: Business & Entrepreneurship, Women and Child

Sub-categories: Setting up / start-up / entrepreneurship, Machine & skill up-Gradation

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: Entrepreneurship, Woman, SC, ST, Unemployed, Fellowship, Financial Support

Details

The “Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (ED/SC-ST- WISTEM)” is aimed for exploring the potential of entrepreneurship along with improvement in the livelihood options for unemployed Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (SC & ST) women in Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) areas using tools of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
Objective:

Creates opportunities for unemployed SC-ST women in STEM areas to become Techno-entrepreneurs to improve their livelihood using various aspects of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
Encourage/Promote the commercial potential of marketable products/technologies with appropriate Technology Readiness Level (TRL) for enterprise creation in:

a) Indigenous /traditional knowledge practices b) Agriculture (bio-inputs, pest and disease control, value addition)
c) Food, Nutrition, and Health /Pharmaceuticals/health products d) Waste Management/Recycling/Bioremediation e) Electrical/ Electronic utility items

Benefits

1. Financial support will be for an amount of ₹20 Lakhs including institutional overheads for a period of one year. 1. The grant will cover Fellowship @ ₹35 000/- per month + 10% HRA (for M.Sc & M.Tech); ₹45 000/- per month + HRA (for Ph.D.); Capital Cost ≤ 25% of project cost (which includes minor equipment infrastructure rent ); Operational Cost ≤ 30% of project cost (consumables & outsource Services cost); contingency ≤ apart from institutional overhead (≤10%- subject to a maximum of ₹1.00 Lakh only). 1. In the first phase
Full Capital Cost six months of the fellowship 50% Operational Cost and 50% of Institutional overhead will be released to the host institution at the time of implementation of programme as soon as the start of programme is intimated to KSCSTE by the host institution. 1. In the second phase 30% of the grant will be released (without institutional overhead) after 6 months of evaluation of the programme. 1. In the third phase the remaining 20% of the grant and 50% of institutional overhead will be released after the successful completion of programme and submission of relevant documents to KSCSTE including onsite evaluation. 1. The institutional overhead (10% of project cost) is subject to a maximum of ₹1.00 Lakh only. 1. Maximum number of grants awarded per year would be 3 - 5 across all subject areas. Note: After a period of one year the extension of programme period is not encouraged. Only in rare and exceptional cases

Financial support will be for an amount of ₹20 Lakhs including institutional overheads for a period of one year.
The grant will cover Fellowship @ ₹35,000/- per month + 10% HRA (for M.Sc & M.Tech); ₹45,000/- per month + HRA (for Ph.D.); Capital Cost ≤ 25% of project cost (which includes minor equipment, infrastructure, rent ); Operational Cost ≤ 30% of project cost (consumables & outsource Services cost); contingency ≤ apart from institutional overhead (≤10%- subject to a maximum of ₹1.00 Lakh only).
In the first phase, Full Capital Cost, six months of the fellowship, 50% Operational Cost and 50% of Institutional overhead will be released to the host institution at the time of implementation of programme as soon as the start of programme is intimated to KSCSTE by the host institution.
In the second phase, 30% of the grant will be released (without institutional overhead), after 6 months of evaluation of the programme.
In the third phase, the remaining 20% of the grant and 50% of institutional overhead will be released after the successful completion of programme and submission of relevant documents to KSCSTE including onsite evaluation.
The institutional overhead (10% of project cost) is subject to a maximum of ₹1.00 Lakh only.
Maximum number of grants awarded per year would be 3 - 5 across all subject areas.

Note: After a period of one year, the extension of programme period is not encouraged. Only in rare and exceptional cases, depending on the necessity and progress of programme, no-cost extension will be considered. Such a period of extension will be limited to a maximum of six months.

Eligibility

The applicant should be an Indian citizen and SC & ST woman in the Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) areas of Kerala State.
The upper age limit for financial support for the programme would be ≥50 years.
The applicant should hold a Ph.D. degree in Science or Technology or Engineering; or M.Sc. degree in Basic Science/Natural Science; or an M.Tech degree in Science/Technology /Engineering.
The applicant should initially identify the Institution and mentor. Alternatively, the application submission could be by nomination from the Head of S&T Institutions across Kerala.
The host institutions can be Academic Institutions (Central and state), University Departments, Colleges recognized with R&D facilities, DSIR-recognized institutions in Kerala, or Institutions with appropriate R&D facilities. The mentor should be a regular faculty of the host institute.
The application form along with required documents should be submitted in PDF format during the call opening period.
Co-mentorship for the program is encouraged. The Co-mentor of the host institution or other Organization must have an experience in enterprise creation.
The applicant selected for the programme should join the host institute within 15 days of receiving the initial grant from KSCSTE.

How useful is this scheme?

Public benefit analysis

A practical look at this scheme for citizens

AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.

6.8

/ 10

Public Benefit Score

Accessibility 6.0/10 Moderate

Rural usefulness 5.0/10 Moderate

Application complexity 5.0/10 Moderate

Financial impact 9.5/10 Good

Literacy barrier 7.0/10 Challenging

Women inclusivity 10.0/10 Good

Awareness 4.5/10 Moderate

Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good

Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens

Accessibility6.0
Financial impact9.5
Rural utility5.0
Awareness4.5
Simplicity5.0
Inclusivity10.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The scheme aims to empower SC and ST women in STEM fields through entrepreneurship development.

Key challenges addressed

Unemployment among SC and ST women
Lack of opportunities in STEM fields

Most beneficial for

Unemployed SC and ST women with qualifications in STEM

Likely challenges

Complex application process
Limited awareness among target beneficiaries

Practical insights for citizens

The scheme's success depends on effective outreach and support mechanisms.

Rural challenges

Limited internet access
Lack of awareness about the scheme

Digital challenges

High digital dependency for application submission

Implementation bottlenecks

Need for institutional support and mentorship

Awareness challenges

Low outreach in rural areas

Application analysis

Application mode: Online portal
Documents burden: Moderate, requires specific educational qualifications
Verification complexity: Moderate, involves institutional endorsement
Office dependency: Low, primarily online
DBT dependency: None
CSC support: Limited
Estimated citizen effort: High, due to documentation and application process

Estimated beneficiary reach

Rural / urban reach Moderate
Gender reach Women-only
Target income group Low-income
Occupation reach STEM professionals

Benefit analysis

Benefit type: Composite
Benefit frequency: One-time grant
Benefit practicality: High, if eligibility criteria are met
Financial meaningfulness: High, with substantial funding for eligible projects
Long-term impact: Potentially transformative for beneficiaries' livelihoods

Plain-language guidance

This scheme helps SC and ST women in Kerala start their own businesses in STEM fields. It provides financial support and mentorship to improve their livelihoods.

Who should apply: SC and ST women with qualifications in STEM fields.
Who may struggle: Women lacking digital skills or awareness about the scheme.
Best application route: Apply directly through the KSCSTE online portal.

This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.

Application Process

Online

Application Process:
Step 01: The call for applications will be notified through print media and the websites/social media handles of KSCSTE (www.kscste.kerala.gov.in).
Step 02: The application should be submitted as per KSCSTE notification using appropriate web links provided on the website.
Step 03: Following the proposal submission guidelines, the applicant can directly submit applications/proposals to KSCSTE. Alternatively, the application submission can be done through nomination from the Head of S&T Institutions across Kerala.
Nomination:
Step 01: In the case of nomination, technical documents (and other required documents) along with recommendation letters from the Head of Institution must be submitted to KSCSTE.
Step 02: For nomination, KSCSTE will be sending prior information about the call of proposals to the Institutional authorities across the state for nominating eligible candidates for participation in the programme.
Step 03: Selection will be based on the evaluation of nominations received subject to recommendations of the Expert Committee constituted for the purpose by KSCSTE and final approval by competent authorities of KSCSTE.
Step 04: Merit of the proposal will be considered as the major criterion for the evaluation process. The merit of the proposal is assessed based on Key Points like (a) Need (solutions) (b) Social/commercial potential (c) Technical viability (d) Team strength (e) Business plan (e) TRL with measurable indicators.
Note: Application that doesn't follow the guidelines will be summarily rejected.
Contact Details:
Email to: meetwomen.kscste@gmail.com

Clarifications

Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).

What is the aim of the programme?: The "Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (ED/SC-ST-WISTEM)" is aimed for exploring the potential of entrepreneurship along with improvement in the livelihood options for unemployed Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (SC & ST) women in Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) areas using tools of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
What is the objective of the programme?: The objective of the programme is to create opportunities for unemployed SC-ST women in STEM areas to become Techno-entrepreneurs to improve their livelihood using various aspects of Science, Technology, and Innovation. Also to encourage/promote the commercial potential of marketable products/technologies with appropriate Technology Readiness Level (TRL) for enterprise.
Which is the implementing agency of this programme?: Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE)
Who is eligible to apply under the programme?: The applicant should be an Indian citizen and SC & ST woman in the Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) areas of Kerala State eligible to apply under the programme.
Is this programme only for the residents of Kerala State?: Yes, the applicant should be a Permanent Resident of Kerala.
What is the upper limit for the applicant to avail of the financial support under the programme?: The upper age limit for financial support for the programme would be ₹50 years.
What is the qualification required to apply for the programme?: The applicant should hold a Ph.D. degree in Science or Technology or Engineering; or M.Sc. degree in Basic Science/Natural Science; or an M.Tech degree in Science/Technology /Engineering.
How much will the monthly fellowship be given to the eligible applicant?: Monthly fellowship @ ₹35,000/- + 10% HRA (for M.Sc & M.Tech) and ₹45,000/- + HRA (for Ph.D.).
How many numbers of grants will be awarded per year under the programme?: Maximum number of grants awarded per year would be 3 - 5 across all subject areas.
For how many years will the financial support be provided to the selected candidates?: Financial Support will be for a period of one year.
How will the candidate be selected under the programme?: Selection will be based on the recommendations of Expert Committee constituted for the purpose by KSCSTE and final approval by competent authorities of KSCSTE.
How can an applicant apply for the programme?: The call for applications will be notified through print media and the websites of KSCSTE (www.kscste.kerala.gov.in). The application should be submitted as per KSCSTE notification using appropriate web links.
Where can an applicant contact regarding this programme?: The applicant can contact via email @ meetwomen.kscste@gmail.com

Official links

References

Official Website: https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/ed-sc-st-wistem/
Guideline: https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/KSCSTE_EDSC-STWISTEM_GUIDELINES_22.pdf
Technical Document (Maximum 3-4 Pages Only): https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/KSCSTE_EDSCSTWISTEM_TD22.pdf
Biodata Format: https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/KSCSTE_ED-SC-ST_Biodata_22.pdf

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Entrepreneurship Woman SC ST Unemployed Fellowship Financial Support

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Individual through benefits related to Business & Entrepreneurship, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Eligibility for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
What benefits are offered under Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Benefits under Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
Which department manages Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics is managed by Science and Technology Department and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
Where can users apply for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Applications for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
What documents may be required for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
Is Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics available in all states?: No, Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics is primarily available for eligible residents of Kerala and may be implemented through state government departments and local administrative offices.
Can residents outside Kerala apply for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Eligibility for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics is generally limited to residents of Kerala unless otherwise specified in the official scheme guidelines.
Is Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics only for women beneficiaries?: Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics is primarily intended to support eligible women beneficiaries through welfare assistance, financial support, skill development, healthcare, or social security initiatives.
Does Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics support self-employment or financial assistance for women?: Depending on scheme guidelines, Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics may provide loans, subsidies, training support, self-employment assistance, or financial welfare benefits for women.
Does Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics provide business loan or startup assistance?: Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics may support entrepreneurs, startups, self-employed individuals, MSMEs, or small businesses through financial assistance, subsidies, credit support, or training initiatives.
Is collateral required under Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Collateral requirements may vary depending on the loan amount, implementing agency, financial institution, and government subsidy structure.
Can CSC centres help users apply for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
How can users check the latest updates for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics?: Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics in Kerala?: Users in Kerala may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
Which nearby public services may help with Entrepreneurship Development by SC & ST Women in Science Technology Engineering Mathematics applications?: Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.