Introduction Sashakt Mahila Rin Yojana is a women-focused credit scheme operated by the Himachal Pradesh State Co-operative Bank (HPSCB). The scheme aims to promote self-employment and financial independence among women by providing collateral-free loans for income-generating activities, agriculture, small businesses, and micro-enterprises. Under this initiative, eligible women can access loans without pledging property or other assets as security. The scheme follows a progressive lending model, allowing borrowers to avail higher loan amounts after successfully repaying earlier loans within the prescribed period. This approach helps women build a formal credit history while expanding their economic activities. The loan facility is available in three stages of ₹21,000, ₹51,000, and ₹1,01,000. Borrowers who maintain a good repayment record become eligible for the next loan slab. The scheme also offers affordable interest rates, flexible repayment tenure, and does not require margin money, making credit more accessible for women entrepreneurs. In addition to financial assistance, beneficiaries can access banking and social security benefits through HPSCB. The scheme supports women in establishing sustainable livelihoods and encourages greater participation in entrepreneurship across Himachal Pradesh. Benefits Collateral-free loan facility for eligible women. First-stage loan of ₹21,000. Second-stage loan of ₹51,000 after successful repayment of the first loan. Third-stage loan of ₹1,01,000 after successful repayment of the second loan. Interest rate of approximately 8.51% per annum. Repayment period of up to 5 years. No margin money requirement. Suitable for self-employment, agriculture, and small business activities. Opportunity to build a formal credit history through timely repayments. Access to social security schemes such as PMJJBY and PMSBY through the bank. ATM charges may be waived for eligible families maintaining accounts with HPSCB. Eligibility Applicant must be a bona fide resident woman of Himachal Pradesh. Age should be between 18 and 55 years. At least two family savings accounts should be maintained with HPSCB. The applicant's spouse must act as guarantor for the loan. Loan should be utilized for approved productive purposes. Eligible activities include self-employment, livelihood projects, agriculture, and business-related equipment purchases. For higher loan stages, previous loans must be repaid without default within the prescribed period. Documents Duly filled loan application form. KYC documents available with the bank. Proof of Himachal Pradesh residence (if required). Details of family savings accounts maintained with HPSCB. Spouse's consent and guarantor details. Passport-size photograph. Aadhaar Card or other identity proof. Bank account details. Documents related to the proposed activity, if required by the branch. Any additional documents requested by HPSCB. Process to Apply Visit the nearest branch of Himachal Pradesh State Co-operative Bank (HPSCB). Ensure the required family savings accounts are maintained with the bank. Obtain the Sashakt Mahila Rin Yojana application form. Fill in personal, banking, and activity-related details. Provide spouse guarantor information. Submit the application along with required documents. The bank verifies eligibility, KYC records, and account details. Upon approval, the loan amount is credited to the applicant's account. Repay the loan as per the EMI schedule. After successful repayment, apply for the next higher loan stage. Important Links and Contact Himachal Pradesh State Co-operative Bank (HPSCB) HPSCB Contact Details Implementing Agency: Himachal Pradesh State Co-operative Bank Limited Mode of Application: Offline through HPSCB Branches Toll-Free Helpline: 1800 180 8090 Email: info@hpscb.com FAQs Q1. What is Himachal Pradesh Sashakt Mahila Rin Yojana?It is a collateral-free loan scheme that provides financial assistance to women for self-employment and livelihood activities. Q2. Who implements this scheme?The scheme is implemented by the Himachal Pradesh State Co-operative Bank (HPSCB). Q3. What is the first loan amount available under the scheme?Eligible applicants can initially receive a loan of ₹21,000. Q4. Is collateral required to avail the loan?No, the loan is provided without any collateral security. Q5. What is the maximum loan amount available?The highest loan stage available under the scheme is ₹1,01,000. Q6. What is the age limit for applicants?Women between 18 and 55 years of age are eligible to apply. Q7. Can the loan be used for agricultural activities?Yes, the loan can be utilized for agriculture and other approved livelihood activities. Q8. Is margin money required under the scheme?No, there is no margin money requirement. Q9. How can a borrower become eligible for a higher loan amount?The borrower must repay the existing loan within the prescribed period without default. Q10. How can applicants apply for the scheme?Applications can be submitted offline through the nearest HPSCB branch.