25/09/2026
Cluster Development Programme ( - ) – National Level
This is a flagship scheme of the Ministry of , operational under the 15th Finance Commission (2021-26). The objective is to empower MSMEs by strengthening them through collective action rather than in isolation.
To date, 233 and 360 Infrastructure Projects have been approved nationwide; of these, 106 CFCs and 247 ID projects have been completed.
Assistance at the national level is provided in three categories:
*1. Common Facility Centre (CFC) – Hard Intervention*
Facilities where more than 20 enterprises from the same cluster collaborate to install advanced/costly technology. Examples include the Textile Testing Lab in Tiruppur, Brass Testing facility in Moradabad, and Leather Design Centre in Agra.
- *General Cluster:*
- 70% grant for projects costing ₹5–10 crore
- 60% grant for projects costing ₹10–30 crore
- *For North-Eastern (NE) & Hill States, Islands, Aspirational Districts, and LWE Districts:* 80% and 70% grant
- *If >50% of units in the cluster are owned by SC/ST/Women/Divyang (Differently-abled) entrepreneurs:* Grant up to 90% (Max ₹30 crore)
*2. Infrastructure Development (ID)*
Development of new industrial estates or flatted factory complexes.
- New Estate: 60% grant, Max ₹15 crore (for projects costing ₹5–15 crore)
- Upgradation of existing estate: 50% grant, Max ₹10 crore
- In Special Category States: 70% and 60%
*3. Soft Interventions*
- Diagnostic Study Report ( ): *₹2.5 lakh - 100% Grant*
- Detailed Project Report (DPR): *₹2 lakh - 100% Grant*
- Capacity Building, Marketing, Design, Export Promotion: *Up to ₹25 lakh - 100% Grant*
How is a cluster formed at the national level?
1. (Special Purpose Vehicle):* At least 20 MSMEs come together to form a Company, Society, or Trust.
2. *DSR Preparation:* Identifying the cluster's problems.
3. *DPR Preparation:* Determining the machinery required and the cost involved.
4. *Approval from DC-MSME, Delhi:* Apply online at cluster.dcmsme.gov.in.
Best examples at the national level:
- * (TN):* CFC
- (UP):* CFC
- (Punjab):* CFC
- * (Gujarat):* Processing CFC
This scheme is uniform across the country. The Central Government provides 70% to 90% of the funds, while the SPV is required to contribute the remainder.
For specific information, connect with the Dalit Industries Association.
Dr. Jitendra Paswan – Championing the economic revolution for SC/ST communities.