The Kerala State Cooperative Bank (KSCB) has launched ‘Co-bank Grama Yatra’ loan scheme to promote rural tourism in a big way. Under the scheme, the bank will provide assistance of up to Rs 20 lakh for individuals, partnership concerns and companies who are ready to develop lodging, food, travel and other facilities for tourists.

Around 150 percent of the loan amount should be given as collateral security. The repayment period is seven-and-a-half years, with a moratorium of six months.

The Co-bank Grama Yatra scheme will also provide Rs 25 lakh for the construction of a houseboat and Rs 10 lakh for its maintenance.

The KSCB has also launched two more new loan schemes. One: a scheme to buy agricultural land. Two: a scheme to open showrooms, franchisees, margin free markets, call centres, computer centres and other small businesses.