The Tamil Nadu Government has launched the Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam to support artisans and promote entrepreneurship. This scheme benefits individuals involved in 25 handicrafts and industries, extending its reach beyond traditional family businesses. The initiative focuses on livelihood enhancement, providing credit assistance, skill development, and entrepreneurship training to help artisans establish or expand modern businesses. Under this scheme, artisans can avail loans of up to Rs. 3 Lakh with a 25% subsidy, capped at Rs. 50,000, and an interest subsidy of up to 5%. Additionally, comprehensive support for business development is provided.
To qualify, applicants must be at least 35 years old.This initiative aims to uplift artisans by offering financial and skill-based support, encouraging sustainable livelihoods and self-reliance. By fostering innovation and modernization, the scheme helps artisans adapt to evolving market demands and strengthens Tamil Nadu’s traditional craft heritage.
What is Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT)?
The Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT) is an initiative by the Tamil Nadu Government to support artisans and craftspeople by improving their livelihood and helping them become entrepreneurs. It focuses on promoting 25 handicrafts and industries, ensuring that artisans from all backgrounds, not just those in traditional family businesses, can benefit.This scheme provides financial assistance, skill development, and entrepreneurship training to help artisans start new businesses or expand existing ones with modern approaches. Under KKT, eligible artisans can access loans of up to Rs. 3 Lakh, with a 25% subsidy (up to Rs. 50,000) and an interest subsidy of up to 5%.
Additional business development support is also offered to help them succeed. Applicants must be 35 years or older to qualify for the scheme. By providing credit and skill-based support, KKT empowers artisans to innovate, adapt to changing markets, and sustain Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage. The scheme aims to create self-reliant artisans and strengthen the state’s traditional industries.
Also Read: Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Scheme
Key Highlights of Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam
| Name of the scheme | Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam |
| Launched By | Government of Tamil Nadu |
| Purpose | To support artisans’ livelihoods and promote entrepreneurship |
| Target Beneficiaries | Artisans and individuals involved in 25 handicrafts and industries |
| Loan Amount | Up to Rs. 3 Lakh |
| Subsidy | 25% subsidy, up to Rs. 50,000 |
| Interest Subsidy | Up to 5% |
| Minimum Age | 35 years |
| Support Offered | Financial assistance, skill development, and entrepreneurship training |
| Business Focus | Starting new businesses and modernizing existing businesses |
| Scope | Benefits all artisans, not limited to family business practitioners |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Official Website | https://www.msmeonline.tn.gov.in/kkt/enclosures.php |
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a resident of Tamil Nadu.
- Minimum age requirement is 35 years.
- Open to individuals involved in 25 recognized handicrafts and industries.
- Not restricted to traditional family business practitioners.
- Applicants must aim to start a new business or expand an existing one.
Required Documents
- Aadhaar Card
- Age Proof Document
- Residence Proof
- Income Certificate
- Bank Account Details
- Proof of Handicraft/Industry Involvement
- Loan Application Form
Amount and Subsidy
- Loan amount available up to Rs. 3 Lakh.
- 25% subsidy on the loan, capped at Rs. 50,000.
- Interest subsidy of up to 5% on the loan amount.
Trade List
Here is a general list of trades commonly associated with handicrafts and small industries. While the specific list under Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam (KKT) may vary, it likely includes:
- Pottery and Ceramics
- Handloom Weaving
- Wood Carving
- Embroidery and Hand Stitching
- Bamboo and Cane Craft
- Jewelry Making (Handcrafted)
- Leather Craft
- Painting (Traditional and Decorative)
- Sculpture and Stone Carving
- Metal Craft (Brass, Copper, etc.)
- Basket Weaving
- Terracotta Products
- Toys and Doll Making
- Papercraft and Stationery Making
- Textile Printing (Block, Batik, etc.)
- Soap and Candle Making
- Shell Craft
- Coir Products Manufacturing
- Glass Craft and Decorative Items
- Beadwork and Accessories
- Carpentry and Furniture Making
- Traditional Musical Instruments
- Food Processing and Packaging
- Herbal Product Manufacturing
- Handicraft-based Home Décor
Also Read: Tamil Nadu Unemployment Assistance Scheme
Salient Features
- Provides financial support to artisans involved in 25 handicrafts and industries.
- Offers loans up to Rs.3 lakh with a 25% subsidy capped at Rs. 50,000.
- Includes an interest subsidy of up to 5% to reduce repayment burden.
- Focuses on skill development and entrepreneurship training.
- Encourages the modernization of traditional businesses.
- Open to individuals aged 35 years or above.
- Promotes self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
- Aims to preserve and enhance Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage through crafts.
Selection Process
- Submit the application form along with required documents.
- Verify eligibility criteria, such as age, trade involvement, and residence status.
- Review of the business plan or proposal by relevant authorities.
- Conduct necessary background checks to confirm the applicant’s suitability.
- Shortlist eligible applicants based on their trade and financial need.
- Approve and sanction loans with subsidies for selected candidates.
- Provide guidance and training for skill development and business enhancement.
Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam Apply Online
To apply online for the Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Visit the Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam Website.
Step 2: Click on the “Apply Online” button on the homepage.
Step 3: Fill in all your personal details on the application page.
Step 4: Attach the required documents.
Step 5: Scroll down and click the “Submit” button.
Step 6: Your application will be complete after submission.
Login Tamil Nadu Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam
To Login to the Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam, follow these steps:
- Visit the official website.
- Click on the “Login” button on the homepage.
- Enter your registration number and password.
- Enter the captcha code.
- Click on the “Login” button to access your account.
Track Application Status
- Visit the official website.
- On homepage click on track status.
- Enter your application number & phone number.
- Click on “submit” button.
Important Downloads
Helpline Number
The helpline numbers for Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam are:
- 22505011
- 22502053
- 22502018
- 22501007
- 22501073
FAQs
Who can apply for Kalaignar Kaivinai Thittam?
Artisans and individuals involved in 25 selected handicrafts and industries, aged 35 years or above, can apply.
What is the maximum loan amount available?
A loan of up to Rs. 3 lakh is provided under this scheme.
Is there any subsidy on the loan?
Yes, a 25% subsidy on the loan amount is provided, with a maximum of Rs. 50,000.
What is the interest subsidy offered?
The scheme offers an interest subsidy of up to 5% on the loan.
Can I apply online?
Yes, you can apply online through the official website.
What documents are required to apply?
Documents like Aadhaar card, age proof, residence proof, income certificate, business plan, and bank details are required.
What is the minimum age to apply?
The minimum age to apply is 35 years.