Scheme of Assistance to Women Entrepreneurs (Mahalir Udavi) supports women entrepreneurs in Puducherry with term loans and working capital support of up to 75% of the project cost for starting or growing Micro Enterprises and Small Scale Industries. The scheme is listed on the official PIPDIC schemes page and keeps accepting fresh applications in 2026, so new and existing women-led businesses can apply online.
Pondicherry Industrial Promotion Development and Investment Corporation Limited (PIPDIC) runs this scheme under the Industries and Commerce Department of Puducherry. It is meant for enterprises that are fully owned by women or have a majority of women entrepreneurs in the business. For instance, if a woman plans to start a small boutique with a project cost of ₹10,00,000, she can get a term loan of up to ₹7,50,000 and bring the rest as promoter contribution.
Scheme of Assistance to Women Entrepreneurs (Mahalir Udavi) - Introduction
Under this scheme, PIPDIC gives financial support to Micro Enterprises and Small Scale Industry units. The total project cost should not exceed ₹20,00,000. The term loan covers fixed assets and working capital needs, while the promoter has to bring in 25% of the project cost from their own side. The debt equity ratio can go up to 3:1.
The scheme also offers a concessional interest rate. As per the official scheme details, the rate is about 2% lower than the normal interest rate, which reduces the monthly repayment burden for women entrepreneurs. There is also a 50% reduction on the investigation fee. The repayment period runs from 5 to 10 years, including a moratorium period of 1 to 2 years.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Scheme of Assistance to Women Entrepreneurs (Mahalir Udavi) |
|---|---|
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Puducherry |
| Category | Business & Entrepreneurship |
| Target Beneficiaries | Business Entity |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Industries and Commerce Department, Puducherry |
Benefits
This scheme helps women entrepreneurs get easy access to loan support for their business. The term loan covers up to 75% of the total project cost, which takes care of fixed assets and working capital needs. A concessional interest rate of about 2% lower than the normal rate keeps the cost of borrowing low. Repayment is flexible and can stretch up to 10 years.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Project Cost | ₹20,00,000 |
| Term Loan | 75% of project cost |
| Promoter Contribution | 25% of project cost |
| Debt Equity Ratio | Up to 3:1 |
| Repayment Period | 5 to 10 years (including 1 to 2 years moratorium) |
| Interest Concession | About 2% lower than normal rate |
| Investigation Fee | 50% reduction |
Eligibility
Women entrepreneurs of Puducherry can apply, whether they are starting a new unit or running an existing one. The unit should be promoted exclusively by women or have a majority of women entrepreneurs. For example, if Pooja runs an existing manufacturing unit in Puducherry and holds a majority stake in the business, she can qualify for the support.
Application Process
Applications are accepted through the official PIPDIC portal. The process is fully online and takes a few simple steps.
STEP 1 - Visit the official PIPDIC website at pipdic.in, click on Login, and select New customer to create your profile. Use your email to verify the account with the OTP sent to you.
STEP 2 - Log in to your dashboard, open the Applications tab, and go through the checklist that covers terms, interest rates and collateral requirements. Keep your documents ready, then click I Agree to start the application form. Fill in all business and personal details and hit Submit.
STEP 3 - Upload the required KYC and promoter biodata documents, then pay the application fee from the payment summary page. The fee is ₹100 for loans up to ₹25,00,000.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready before you start the application so that the checking process does not get delayed:
- Copy of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Registration Certificate.
- Lease or sale deed of the work premises.
- Building plans and factory layout approved by the panel.
- Machinery quotations from standard suppliers.
- Detailed manufacturing process flow chart.
- Copies of PAN card, Aadhaar and bank account details.
- Partnership deed or registration documents, if applicable.
References
Scheme Information | PIPDIC Brochure | Contact Us
FAQ's
How do I create an account for this scheme?
Visit the PIPDIC website at pipdic.in, click on Login, and select the New customer link to register using your email and a secure password.
What documents are needed for my application?
You will need MSME registration, premises proof, machinery quotations, and personal KYC documents like Aadhaar card and PAN card.
How can I track my application status?
After submitting the application, log in to your dashboard and select View My Application to check the current status, such as UNDER REVIEW.
Who can I contact for help?
You can reach the Managing Director's office at 0413-2334361 or email queries to info@pipdic.com for support.