Financial Assistance to Youth Groups (Mangal Dals)

The Department of Youth Welfare and Prantiy Rakshak Dal (PRD), Government of Uttarakhand, administers the "Financial Assistance to Youth Groups" scheme. Its purpose is to strengthen rural economies by encouraging self-employment and entrepreneurship among the state's youth. The scheme offers financial support to registered Mangal Dals, which are local youth groups affiliated with the department.

The scheme's primary aim is to help these groups establish and operate their own businesses, generating livelihood opportunities and curbing rural unemployment. Through seed funding for a range of employment-oriented projects, the government intends to position young people as job creators rather than job seekers. The programme supports sustainable economic activities at the grassroots level, aiding the state's overall development.

Funding is allocated to projects within 18 specified business sectors, ensuring a focused response to local needs and market conditions. This support helps aspiring youth entrepreneurs move from idea to execution, supplying the initial capital needed to launch their ventures.

To apply, follow these steps:

• Get the application form: Members of a Yuvak or Mahila Mangal Dal should collect the form from the nearest Youth Welfare and PRD office in Uttarakhand.
• Compile the required documents: The submission must include a group photograph of all members, a written business plan or detailed description of the intended venture, confirmation of available land or a building for the enterprise, and a certified cost estimate. You will also need the team’s registration number, the names of every member, their birth certificates, educational qualification certificates, permanent residence certificates, the team’s bank account details, and any certificates of training or experience relevant to the proposed business. A statement of the family’s total monthly income from all sources is also mandatory.
• Submit the application: Hand in the completed form and all supporting documents to the District Youth Welfare and PRD Officer, routed through the Regional Youth Welfare and PRD Officer.

The District Officer begins by inspecting the site to confirm the project details and assess the applicant group’s capacity. After this visit, the officer submits the proposal with a recommendation to the District Magistrate. A consolidated list of recommended youth groups is then forwarded to the Director, Youth Welfare and PRD Directorate, who handles the final selection and ongoing oversight. From each district, the Director chooses at least two beneficiary youth groups, keeping the distribution fair across districts while staying within the sanctioned budget.