Govt to provide up to Rs 150cr for effluent treatment plants

Jaipur: In a bid to support manufacturing units while strengthening environmental safeguards, the industries govt has introduced a new scheme for the establishment of Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM).The initiative provides financial assistance of up to Rs 150 crore for setting up modern “Zero Liquid Discharge” plants in both RIICO and non-RIICO industrial areas.According to guidelines issued by industries and commerce department, treated water from these plants will be reused, addressing a long-standing gap in recycling systems.Additional chief secretary Shikhar Agarwal said that under the scheme, industrial clusters will be required to form a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to construct and operate CETPs. “The state govt will bear 80% of the project cost, capped at Rs 150 crore, while the SPV will contribute the remaining 20%,” added Agarwal.To ensure effective long-term functioning, grants will be disbursed in phases: 60% in three installments during construction, and 20% spread over 20 years of operation.Financial support will be extended jointly by RIICO and the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board in RIICO areas. In non-RIICO industrial areas, the state govt along with the Pollution Control Board will extend the financial support.This marks a major expansion of eligibility, ensuring wider coverage across industrial regions.The govt has also enhanced an existing CETP scheme, raising the one-time grant limit from Rs 75 crore to Rs 100 crore and extending benefits to non-RIICO industrial areas.Officials said the initiative will not only reduce pollution but also encourage industries to adopt sustainable practices.