Introduction
In pursuance of the Industrial Policy-1977, a programme for setting up District Industries Centres (DICs) was launched by the Government of India, to be operational from 1st May 1978. The programme provided for setting up a DIC in each district of the country, in a phased manned in order to make the district headquarters a focal point for the development of small-scale and cottage industries, to shift the emphasis from cities and state capitals to the district headquarters and to provide under a single root, all services and support needed by small and village entrepreneurs. Accordingly the Government oflndia issued guidelines to the State Government for setting up DIC in each district of the state. In the State of Maharashtra, District Industries Centre have been set up in the 34 districts. At present 34 districts of Maharashtra DICs have been functioning.
The main objects of the DIC programme are firstly to make available various assistance and clearance required under one roof and secondly to promote rural industries.
Following are the schemes under District Industries Centre (DIC):
- Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Program (PMEGP)
- Seed Money Scheme
- DIC Loan Scheme
- Entrepreneurship Development Training Program
- District Award Schemes