PLI Scheme: The government has reopened the application window for the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for White Goods, specifically for air conditioners (ACs) and LED lights, due to increased industry interest and market confidence. This decision follows the successful implementation of the scheme, which has seen significant investments in the manufacturing of key components for these products in India.
The application window will be open from July 15, 2024, to October 12, 2024, on the same online portal, accessible at PLI White Goods Application Portal. No applications will be accepted after the deadline.
Both new applicants and existing beneficiaries aiming to invest more by switching to higher target segments or through group companies applying in different segments are eligible to apply. Applicants must meet the eligibility conditions outlined in Para 5.6 of the Scheme Guidelines and adhere to the investment schedule specified in Appendix-1 or Appendix-1A, as applicable.
The consolidated Scheme Guidelines can be found at PLI White Goods Guidelines and DPIIT Guidelines.
Under Para 6.4 of the PLIWG Scheme and Para 9.2 of the Scheme Guidelines, applicants will be eligible for incentives for the remainder of the scheme’s tenure. New applicants and existing beneficiaries opting for an investment period up to March 2023 seeking higher investment categories will be eligible for PLI for a maximum of three years. Those opting for an investment period up to March 2022 in higher investment categories will be eligible for a maximum of two years. Existing beneficiaries who do not meet the threshold investment or sales in a given year can submit claims based on their original investment plans, but this flexibility is only available once during the scheme period.
To enhance liquidity, working capital management, and operational efficiency, the scheme will now allow for quarterly claims processing instead of annual claims. Necessary amendments have been made to the Scheme Guidelines to reflect this change.
So far, 66 applicants with committed investments of ₹6,962 crore have been selected under the PLI scheme. Major companies investing in AC components include DAIKIN, VOLTAS, HINDALCO, AMBER, and others. For LED light components, companies like DIXON, R K LIGHTING, RADHIKA OPTO, SURYA, and others have invested. These investments will facilitate the manufacturing of components across the value chain, including those not previously produced in India.
The Union Cabinet approved the PLI Scheme for White Goods on April 7, 2021, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ The scheme, with an outlay of ₹6,238 crore, aims to boost manufacturing and create jobs over seven years from FY 2021-22 to FY 2028-29.
