The Delhi government has announced collateral-free loans of up to Rs 10 crore for women-led startups and self-help groups (SHGs), with the government set to act as guarantor for eligible applicants. The announcement was made by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during the inauguration of a two-day Mega SHG Mela in Rohini.
The initiative is aimed at helping women entrepreneurs and small home-run businesses that often face difficulties in securing institutional credit due to the lack of collateral or financial guarantees.
According to the Chief Minister, the Delhi government itself will stand as guarantor for the loans extended to women-led startups and SHGs.
The announcement was made at the Mega SHG Mela organised near Rohini West Metro Station in northwest Delhi, where around 24 self-help groups showcased products including handicrafts, khadi items, crochet work, food products and household goods.
Focus on women entrepreneurship
The scheme is expected to benefit women entrepreneurs operating small businesses in sectors such as tailoring, handicrafts, beauty services, food processing and retail ventures. Many such businesses rely heavily on personal savings or informal borrowing because access to formal bank credit remains limited.
The Delhi government also said it plans to create dedicated retail opportunities for locally made products in malls and major shopping complexes across the capital to improve market access for women-led businesses.
During the event, Rekha Gupta highlighted initiatives such as “Vocal for Local” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” encouraging the promotion of indigenous products and local manufacturing.
