09 July 2024
Banks in India can provide loans to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) without collateral under the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme. Here are the key details:
1. **Maximum Loan Amount**: Under the CGTMSE scheme, banks can provide collateral-free loans up to Rs. 2 crore to MSME units.
2. **Coverage**: The scheme covers both new and existing MSMEs, including service enterprises, for loans up to Rs. 2 crore per borrower from the primary lending institutions (PLIs).
3. **Guarantee Coverage**: The CGTMSE provides a guarantee cover of up to 75-85% of the sanctioned amount of the credit facility. This guarantee is provided against any losses suffered by the PLIs on account of the borrower’s default.
4. **Eligibility**: MSMEs engaged in manufacturing or service activities are eligible for this scheme, subject to certain conditions and eligibility criteria specified by the CGTMSE.
5. **Application Process**: MSMEs need to apply through their respective banks or financial institutions participating in the CGTMSE scheme. The banks assess the creditworthiness of the borrower based on their project viability and financials, and the guarantee fee is typically borne by the borrower.
**Purpose**: The loans can be used for various purposes such as working capital, term loans for business expansion, purchase of machinery or equipment, etc.
This scheme aims to facilitate easier access to credit for MSMEs by providing a credit guarantee to banks and financial institutions, thereby reducing the requirement for collateral and enabling faster approval and disbursement of loans.