What you get
- Reimbursement of ESI and EPF contribution to the employers: The private sector employer, who newly employs SC and ST candidates, will be reimbursed the ESI and EPF contribution paid by them for a period of 2 years, subject to the maximum limit of ₹3,000/- per month per candidate. 1. Reimbursement of Stipend paid to the apprentice trainees: The stipend amount under Apprenticeship Act, 1961 paid to the Apprentice Trainees belonging to SC and ST categories, who are undergoing training for a period of One year Normal and Two years Comprehensive Training, will be reimbursed to the employer for a maximum limit of ₹5,000/- per month per candidate and subject to 2/3rd of the total amount paid by them. 1. Reimbursement of salary for appointment after completion of Apprentice Training: If the employer who has given apprentice training to the candidates belonging to SC and ST categories, employs the same candidates in permanent posts, 50% of the salary subject to a maximum limit of ₹7,000/- per month per candidate will be reimbursed to the employer for a period of two year. 1. Reimbursement of salary paid by the employers: The private sector employer, who newly employs SC and ST candidates after 12th June 2024, will be reimbursed the salary paid by them for a period of 2 years, subject to the maximum limit of ₹6,000/- per month per candidate. 1. Skill Development: To organize skill trainings for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes through the Department of Skill Development and encourage them to become self-reliant.
Who can apply
Required Paperwork
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Income Certificate
- Residence Proof (Domicile)
Common Questions
What is the Ashadeepa Scheme?
The Ashadeepa Scheme is a government initiative launched in 2017–18 to encourage private sector employers in Karnataka to hire candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories, by offering financial reimbursements.
Who implements the Ashadeepa Scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Karnataka State Workers Welfare and Social Security (Ashadeepa Scheme) Society (R) under the Labour Department of Karnataka.
What is the main objective of the Scheme?
The scheme aims to create employment opportunities for SC/ST candidates in the private sector and improve their socio-economic condition through job placements and skill training.
What kind of financial support is offered to employers?
Employers receive reimbursements for: | - ESI & EPF contributions | - Stipends paid during apprenticeship | - Salaries of newly hired SC/ST candidates | - Salaries post-apprenticeship recruitment
Who is eligible for the Scheme?
To be eligible, the candidate must: | - Be a resident of Karnataka | - Belong to the SC or ST category | - Be employed in a private-sector company or industry
Are apprentices covered under this scheme?
Yes. SC/ST candidates undergoing apprenticeship training under the Apprenticeship Act, 1961, are eligible for stipend reimbursement to the employer.
What is reimbursed to employers for apprenticeship training?
Employers are reimbursed up to ₹5,000 per month per apprentice, subject to 2/3rd of the actual stipend paid during one-year normal or two-year comprehensive training.
What if a company hires the apprentice after training?
If an SC/ST apprentice is hired permanently, the employer is reimbursed 50% of the salary, up to ₹7,000/month, for a period of two years.
Is salary reimbursement available for direct recruitment?
Yes. For SC/ST candidates directly employed after June 12, 2024, the employer is eligible for salary reimbursement up to ₹6,000/month for two years.
What is the reimbursement limit for ESI and EPF contributions?
Employers can claim reimbursement up to ₹3,000 per month per candidate for 2 years for contributions made towards ESI and EPF.
Is skill development training provided under this scheme?
Yes. The scheme supports Skill Development Training for SC/ST candidates through the Department of Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood, Karnataka.
Can candidates apply for the scheme individually?
No. The application must be submitted by the employer, not the individual candidate.
How does an employer apply for the Scheme?
Employers can apply online via the Karnataka State Unorganized Workers Social Security Board website by filling out the Ashadeepa Scheme form and uploading required documents. https://kbocwwb.karnataka.gov.in/ashadeepaschemeform