Application invited from women for subsidised loan scheme in tourism sector

Kerala Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission Society has invited applications from women entrepreneurs for setting up ventures in tourism sector by availing loans under the interest subsidy scheme announced by the State government. A first of its kinds initiative in the country, RT Mission is implementing the ‘Interest Subvention Project’ in association with Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation (KSWDC) as part of the government’s women-friendly tourism policy.

The beneficiaries will be eligible for 4% interest subsidy on loans up to ₹15 lakh obtained under the scheme. Women entrepreneurs or women-led units registered with the RT Mission Society are eligible to apply under the scheme. Applicants need to submit a detailed project report with necessary documents to RT Mission Society and the eligible projects will be recommended to KSWDC, for providing loans after scrutiny of the reports and obtaining surety from the applicants.

Terming this as a model project that aligns with the State’s inclusive and sustainable tourism development paradigm, Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas noted that in the Budget 2025-26, 50% of the funds allocated for RT Mission is earmarked for women empowerment activities. “Around 70% of the units registered with the State RT Mission are either women-owned or women-led enterprises. The women-friendly Tourism Project of the State government aims to support, promote and increase participation of women in tourism sector. The scheme will also help economic empowerment of local community and ensure their financial and social security,” Mr. Riyas added.

All categories of women can apply under the scheme through: https://www.keralatourism.org/responsible-tourism/uploads/tenders/interest-subvention-scheme-20260312135426628705.pdf