Mumbai: The fourth round of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for White Goods has attracted 13 new applications worth ₹1,914 crore, with more than half of the applicants being micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Officials said the level of MSME participation reflects growing confidence among smaller firms in joining the air conditioner and LED manufacturing value chain.
Nine applicants have committed ₹1,816 crore to air conditioner components such as copper tubes, aluminium stock, compressors, motors, heat exchangers and control assemblies. Four others have pledged ₹98 crore for LED components including chips, drivers and heat sinks. The proposed projects span six states, 13 districts and 23 locations, and are expected to contribute to regional industrial growth and employment generation.
The scheme, launched in 2021 with an outlay of ₹6,238 crore, aims to establish a complete component ecosystem for air conditioners and LED lights in India. So far, it has attracted ₹10,335 crore of committed investment from 80 approved beneficiaries. The government expects the scheme to generate production worth ₹1.72 lakh crore and create around 60,000 direct jobs nationwide. The initiative is designed to increase domestic value addition from the current 15–20 per cent to 75–80 per cent, positioning India as a global manufacturing hub for white goods.
Officials noted that the strong presence of MSMEs in the latest round is significant, as it broadens the base of manufacturers and strengthens supply chains. By encouraging smaller enterprises to invest in high-value components, the scheme is expected to reduce import dependence and enhance competitiveness in the sector.
The PLI programme has already spurred localisation of production and attracted investment in critical components. With MSMEs now taking a larger share of participation, the government sees further momentum in building a resilient domestic manufacturing ecosystem for white goods.
