The Trade and Industry Related Functional Support Services (TIRFSS) scheme is an initiative implemented by the Coir Board under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). The scheme is designed to strengthen the coir industry by providing essential support services that improve infrastructure, skill development, and market access.
It plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall efficiency and competitiveness of coir-based enterprises, particularly in rural areas where the industry serves as a major source of employment. The scheme focuses on creating a supportive ecosystem that enables coir entrepreneurs to grow sustainably and compete in domestic as well as international markets.
What is the TIRFSS scheme?
The TIRFSS scheme is aimed at providing functional support services required for the growth and development of the coir sector. Rather than offering direct financial subsidies for production, it focuses on strengthening the industry through capacity building, infrastructure development, and promotional activities.
The scheme addresses gaps in training, technology adoption, and market development, ensuring that coir units can operate more efficiently and meet evolving market demands.
Objectives of the TIRFSS scheme
The scheme is designed to achieve the following objectives:
- To strengthen the coir industry through improved infrastructure and support services
- To promote skill development and capacity building among coir workers and entrepreneurs
- To enhance domestic and international market access for coir products
- To support adoption of modern technology and production techniques
- To improve the overall quality and competitiveness of coir products
- To generate sustainable employment in rural and coastal regions
4 key components of TIRFSS scheme
The scheme consists of several key components that collectively support the coir ecosystem:
- Skill development and training programmes
Focuses on upgrading the skills of workers and entrepreneurs through structured training initiatives - Infrastructure development support
Includes setting up common facility centres, raw material banks, and processing units - Market promotion and development
Supports participation in trade fairs, exhibitions, and promotional campaigns to expand market reach - Information technology and administrative support
Enhances digital infrastructure, data management, and overall governance of the coir sector
Eligibility criteria for TIRFSS scheme
- Coir units registered with the Coir Board
- Entrepreneurs engaged in coir production, processing, or marketing
- Co-operative societies, self-help groups, and small enterprises in the coir sector
- Institutions involved in training and development of coir workers
- Applicants complying with scheme guidelines and regulatory requirements
- Units located in coir-producing regions, particularly rural and coastal areas
Benefits of TIRFSS scheme for coir entrepreneurs
The scheme offers multiple indirect and direct benefits to coir entrepreneurs:
- Improved access to training and skill development programmes
- Enhanced infrastructure support for better production efficiency
- Increased market visibility through exhibitions and trade fairs
- Support for adopting modern technology and improving product quality
- Better opportunities for export and global market expansion
- Strengthened institutional support for business growth and sustainability
How to apply for TIRFSS scheme
The application process typically involves the following steps:
- Identify eligibility under the scheme based on business activity
- Approach the Coir Board or designated implementing agency
- Submit application with details of the proposed activity or requirement
- Provide necessary documents and project details
- Application is reviewed and evaluated by the concerned authority
- Approval is granted based on eligibility and scope of support
- Benefits are provided as per scheme guidelines and approved components
Documents required for TIRFSS scheme application
- Registration certificate of the coir unit or enterprise
- Identity and address proof of the applicant
- Detailed proposal or project report (if applicable)
- Financial details or statements of the enterprise
- Proof of business activity in the coir sector
- Bank account details for fund disbursement
- Any additional documents required by the Coir Board
Financial allocation under TIRFSS scheme
The financial support under the scheme is allocated across different components to ensure comprehensive development of the coir sector:
- Funds are allocated for training and skill development programmes
- Budget provision for infrastructure creation such as common facilities and raw material banks
- Financial support for organising and participating in trade fairs and exhibitions
- Allocation for IT development and administrative improvements
- Distribution of funds is based on annual government budgets and project approvals
- Emphasis on efficient utilisation to maximise sectoral growth and employment generation
Conclusion
The TIRFSS scheme plays a vital role in strengthening the coir industry by providing essential support services that go beyond direct financial assistance. Through its focus on infrastructure, training, and market development, the scheme helps coir entrepreneurs improve productivity, expand their reach, and achieve sustainable growth.
For additional funding requirements, businesses can also explore business loans, review the applicable business loan interest rate, or use a business loan EMI calculator to plan repayments and manage finances effectively.
