NIRVIK Scheme (Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana) Details And Benefits

Madhavi Gaur September 28, 2023 01:22 5516 0

The NIRVIK Scheme, also known as Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana, is an initiative implemented under the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India (ECGC).

NIRVIK Scheme (Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana) Details And Benefits

NIRVIK Scheme (Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana)

The NIRVIK Scheme, also known as Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana, is an initiative implemented under the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India (ECGC) to facilitate easier access to loans and enhance credit availability for small-scale exporters.

This scheme was unveiled by the Finance Minister during the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2020-2021, announced on February 1st, 2020. The NIRVIK Scheme is designed to bolster India’s export sector and is a significant component of the government’s efforts to promote exports.

In the context of the IAS Exam, government schemes and policies are crucial topics that appear in the UPSC syllabus. They are often the subject of questions in the civil services examination.

NIRVIK Scheme (Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana)
NIRVIK Scheme (Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana)

What is the NIRVIK Scheme?

The NIRVIK scheme, officially known as the Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana (Export Credit Insurance Scheme), is a government initiative designed to benefit small exporters by providing insurance benefits. Launched under the auspices of the Finance Minister of India in the Union Budget 2020-21, the scheme aims to shield small exporters from market volatility through comprehensive insurance coverage.

NIRVIK Scheme Controlling Ministries 

  • The NIRVIK scheme is formulated by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, as indicated by the Finance Minister.
  • Implementation is carried out by the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Key Details of the NIRVIK Scheme

  1. Objective: The NIRVIK Scheme aims to provide substantial insurance coverage for exporters while reducing insurance premiums for small-scale exporters. This is expected to result in increased disbursement of export credit.
  2. Background: The scheme was introduced at a time when ten out of thirty exporting sectors experienced a significant decline in outbound shipments in 2019. India’s exports in December 2019 declined for the fifth consecutive time, falling by approximately 1.8% to USD 357.39 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of USD 118.10 billion.
  3. Importance: The development of the NIRVIK Scheme was crucial as exporters were facing challenges in accessing credit. Credit disbursement had declined from Rs 12.39 lakh crore in 2017-18 to Rs 9.57 lakh crore in 2018-2019.

About the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India (ECGC):

ECGC Ltd., formerly known as Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India Ltd., is a government-owned entity established in 1957. Its primary objective is to promote exports from India by providing credit risk insurance and related services for exports. ECGC aims to excel in offering export credit insurance and trade-related services, supporting the Indian export industry through cost-effective insurance.

Features of the NIRVIK Scheme

  1. Insurance Coverage: The scheme provides insurance coverage of up to 90% of the principal amount and interest.
  2. Interest Rates: It ensures that foreign export credit interest rates remain below 4%, while rupee export credit interest rates are limited to 8%.
  3. Coverage: Both pre-shipment and post-shipment credit are covered under this scheme.
  4. Premium Rates: Borrowers in the gems, jewelry, and diamond sectors with limits exceeding Rs 80 crore will have a higher premium rate due to a higher loss ratio. For accounts with limits below Rs 80 crore, the premium rates will be moderated to 0.60% per annum, whereas, for limits beyond Rs 80 crore, the rates will be 0.72% per annum.
  5. Losses: In case of losses exceeding Rs 10 crores, the exporter will be subject to inspection by the ECGC. Banks are required to pay a monthly premium to the ECGC as both principal and interest are covered for outstanding amounts.

Benefits of the NIRVIK Scheme

  1. Enhanced Accessibility: The scheme significantly improves the accessibility and affordability of credit for exporters, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of Indian exports.
  2. Reduction of Red Tape: It streamlines processes, reducing bureaucratic obstacles and making it more exporter-friendly.
  3. Cost Reduction: The extended insurance coverage is expected to lower the cost of credit by providing capital relief, better liquidity, and quicker settlement of claims.
  4. MSME Support: Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) benefit from simplified procedures, making it easier to do business and navigate ECGC processes.

The NIRVIK Scheme is a pivotal initiative aimed at revitalizing India’s export sector, and it has the potential to significantly impact the ease of doing business for exporters in the country.

About the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India

  • Established by the central government in 1957, the ECGC serves to promote and support exports from India.

As an export promotion organization, it enhances the competitiveness of Indian exports and provides credit insurance coverage.

Salient Features of the NIRVIK Scheme

  • Launched in 2020, the scheme facilitates a higher export credit limit, allowing exporters to access credit up to 20 times their annual turnover.
  • The repayment period for export credit is extended to 10 years, compared to the previous 5-7 years, enhancing export viability.
  • Lower interest rates on export credits, linked to repo rates, contribute to cost reduction for exporters.
  • The scheme introduces an online portal, ‘NIRVIK,’ streamlining the provision of export credit and addressing exporters’ issues.
  • Aiming for faster disbursement and settlement of export insurance claims, the scheme incorporates e-monitoring tools and a risk-based approach to simplify compliance and documentation norms.

Eligibility for NIRVIK Scheme

  • Exporters registered with Authorized Dealers Category-I banks are eligible.
  • Both existing and new exporters, with established creditworthiness, can avail of export credit facilities.
  • Eligible exporters can access credit for pre-shipment and post-shipment activities related to physical exports and services from India.

Working of NIRVIK Scheme

  • Urban cooperative societies seeking the NIRVIK scheme apply to the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
  • NABARD assesses eligibility and financial health, sanctioning loans for eligible societies.
  • Loan disbursement occurs in installments, and repayments with interest are made by the societies to NABARD.
  • The Government of India guarantees the NIRVIK scheme, safeguarding NABARD from losses in case of defaults.

NIRVIK Scheme Facts and Figures for UPSC

  • Launched by the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India for small exporters.
  • Announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
  • Objective: To provide higher insurance coverage to small exporters.
  • Benefits include a reduction in premium, with insurance covering 90% of the principal and interest.
  • Department: Ministry of Commerce.
  • Disbursement of credit in 2018-2019: Rs. 9.57 crore.
  • Disbursement of credit in 2017-18: Rs. 12.39 crore.
  • Credit interest rate: 4 to 8%.
  • Scheme period: 5 years.

The NIRVIK Scheme plays a pivotal role in supporting small exporters, promoting competitiveness, and facilitating the growth of the Indian export sector.

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NIRVIK Scheme FAQs

The Nirvik scheme is a specialized export credit insurance initiative designed to assist small exporters in India. It offers a range of advantages, including lowered premiums, expanded insurance coverage, and streamlined processes for eligible beneficiaries.

The NIRVIK scheme has specific eligibility criteria, including: 1. Limited to Small-Scale Businesses: Only small-scale businesses are eligible to avail themselves of the benefits of the scheme. 2. Indian Citizenship: The owner of the export business must be a citizen of India to qualify for participation. 3. Active Bank Account in India: Export businesses seeking to benefit from the NIRVIK scheme must maintain an active bank account in India.

The primary objective of the scheme is to bolster small exporters and enhance export production in India. The ultimate aim is to foster increased employment and contribute to overall national development.

The Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, introduced the scheme in the 2020-21 budget.
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