Information about the Nucleus Budget Scheme
The Nucleus Budget Scheme, also known as the Centralized Budget Scheme (Kendra Varti Arthasankalp), has been implemented by the Tribal Development Department of the Government of Maharashtra since 1981-82.
Purpose and Scope of the Scheme:
- Purpose: To implement innovative and productive schemes that are essential based on local conditions but may not be covered under the regular Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP). This scheme is designed to be flexible, taking into account the unique geographical conditions and needs of tribal communities in each project area.
- Beneficiaries: Tribal individuals and families who are Below the Poverty Line (BPL).
- Benefit Limit (Individual): Financial assistance of up to Rs. 50,000/- is typically provided to a tribal individual/family.
- Subsidy: General tribal beneficiaries receive an 85% subsidy, while Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTGs, e.g., Kolam) beneficiaries receive a 100% subsidy.
- Application Process: The scheme is now mainly implemented online through the ‘NB Portal’ (\text{[https://www.nbtribal.in](https://www.nbtribal.in)}), which enhances transparency.
Main Categories of Benefits:
The Nucleus Budget primarily supports non-loan schemes, which are broadly categorized as follows:
- Income Generation or Enhancement Schemes:
- Irrigation schemes to boost agricultural income (e.g., inwell bore, pipe supply).
- Animal Husbandry (e.g., poultry farming, goat rearing, dairy business).
- Horticulture, fisheries, and cottage industries.
- Training Schemes:
- Training essential for employment and self-employment (e.g., computer training, tailoring, competitive exam guidance).
- Human Resource Development and Tribal Welfare Schemes:
- Health camps, education support, and other social welfare activities.
Application Process and Eligibility:
- Eligibility: The applicant must belong to a Scheduled Tribe in Maharashtra. Specific educational and financial criteria vary depending on the sub-scheme.
- How to Apply:
- Interested beneficiaries should apply online on the NB Portal at \text{[https://www.nbtribal.in](https://www.nbtribal.in)}.
- In districts where the portal is not fully functional, applicants must contact the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP) Office to submit the application in the prescribed format.
- Required Documents (Illustrative):
- Aadhaar Card
- Cast Certificate
- Domicile Certificate
- BPL Certificate (if applicable)
- Bank Passbook copy
- Other necessary certificates based on the scheme (e.g., disability, widow status, etc.).
