AI SummaryTamil Nadu government's Mudhalvarin Kakkum Karangal (CM Kakkum Karangal) scheme is accepting online applications from ex-servicemen, war widows and their dependents who want to start their own business. Former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched this scheme for retired defence personnel and families of martyrs, and the state government has extended it with a fresh order.
Under the scheme, eligible applicants can get bank loans up to ₹1 crore to set up small or medium-scale businesses. The state provides a 30% capital subsidy and a 3% interest subsidy along with skill and entrepreneurship training. The scheme was first announced in the 2024 Independence Day speech, and as of August 2026 applications are open for the 2026-27 cycle after the government extended it. The official extension order (PDF) dated 3 June 2026 is available online.
Online Application Process
STEP 1 - Go to the official Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare online portal of Tamil Nadu and open the Online Services section from the homepage.
STEP 2 - New applicants should register on the portal with their mobile number and create a login. Those who already have an account can sign in directly.
STEP 3 - After login, open the Mudhalvarin Kakkum Karangal scheme application form and fill in service details, family details and the project plan for the proposed business.
STEP 4 - Submit the form online to get a computer-generated acknowledgement number. Take a printout and submit it in person to the District Ex-Servicemen Welfare Office within 30 days. Applications not submitted within this period are cancelled automatically.
Families of soldiers who lost their lives during service can also apply by visiting their respective District Ex-Servicemen's Welfare Office. More scheme details are available on the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare website.
Highlights of CM Kakkum Karangal Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Chief Minister's Kakkum Karangal (Mudhalvarin Kakkum Karangal) |
| Launched By | Former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Tamil Nadu government |
| Beneficiaries | Ex-servicemen, war widows, dependents and families of martyrs |
| Loan Facility | Up to ₹1 crore |
| Subsidy | 30% capital subsidy + 3% interest subsidy |
| Training | Skill and entrepreneurship training |
| First Phase | 348 beneficiaries, ₹50.50 crore budget |
| First Allotment | ₹24.43 crore released to 155 ex-servicemen |
| Status | Extended for the 2026-27 financial year |
| Application | Online at esmwelfare.tn.gov.in or through District Ex-Servicemen Welfare Office |
Also read: Nalam Kakkum Stalin Scheme - Find Camp Location & Details Near You
Benefits of CM Kakkum Karangal Scheme
The scheme gives ex-servicemen and war widows support in more than one way. These are the main benefits:
- Ex-servicemen and war widows can become independent business owners with government-backed bank loans.
- Loans up to ₹1 crore with a 30% capital subsidy and a 3% interest subsidy reduce the repayment load.
- Families of soldiers who died in service can also apply through district welfare offices.
- New businesses started under the scheme create jobs across Tamil Nadu.
- Skill and entrepreneurship training is provided along with the loan support.
Eligibility
Ex-servicemen from Tamil Nadu, war widows and dependents of ex-servicemen who died during service can apply. Applicants need a clear business plan and should apply through the official portal or the District Ex-Servicemen Welfare Office.
FAQ's
Who can apply for this scheme?
Ex-servicemen from Tamil Nadu, war widows and dependents of ex-servicemen who died during service can apply.
How much loan is available?
Eligible applicants can get bank loans up to ₹1 crore to start a small or medium business.
What subsidies are given?
A 30% capital subsidy and a 3% interest subsidy are provided along with skill and entrepreneurship training.
Where to apply?
Applications are accepted online at esmwelfare.tn.gov.in and through the District Ex-Servicemen Welfare Office.
For more government schemes from the state, see the Tamil Nadu government schemes list.