The government has reopened the application window for the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for white goods—air conditioners and LED lights—for a fresh 30-day period, from September 15 to October 14, 2025. According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, this decision was taken in response to strong industry interest and the appetite for further investment. Applicants will, however, be eligible for incentives only for the remainder of the scheme’s tenure.
PLI Scheme: A Quick Refresher
Launched in 2020, the PLI scheme is one of the government’s flagship programs to boost domestic manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and make India a global hub for production. Initially rolled out for three sectors—mobile phones, electrical components, and medical devices—the scheme was gradually expanded to 14 key industries, including automobiles, textiles, pharmaceuticals, drones, and white goods.
With a total outlay exceeding ₹1.97 lakh crore, the scheme provides direct incentives linked to production output. This means companies get rewarded for scaling manufacturing within India, creating a win-win by boosting domestic output while generating jobs and investments.
White Goods PLI: Why It Matters
The specific PLI for white goods, with an outlay of ₹6,238 crore, covers the period from FY22 to FY29. It targets high-value components of ACs and LED lights, aiming to build a competitive domestic ecosystem. India has historically depended on imports for many of these components; through the scheme, the government hopes to achieve self-reliance and establish India as an export hub.
The reopening of the window reflects strong confidence from both existing and new investors. With global supply chains shifting and companies looking to diversify beyond China, India is positioning itself as an attractive alternative.
How PLI Has Benefitted India So Far
The PLI schemes have already delivered tangible results.
- Mobile Manufacturing: India has emerged as the second-largest mobile phone producer in the world, with companies like Apple and Samsung significantly ramping up local production.
- Pharma Sector: The PLI has boosted the manufacturing of critical APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients), reducing reliance on imports from China.
- Auto and EVs: The scheme has encouraged investments in advanced automotive technology and electric vehicles, furthering India’s green mobility goals.
The reopening of applications for white goods is, therefore, another step in extending these benefits—spurring investments, creating jobs, and helping India move closer to its ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.
