STPI Scheme
The STP Scheme is devised for setting up various types of Software Developmental Firms and IT Enabled Services (ITES) Firms in India, for 100% Export. Administered by the directors of STPI, the distinguished feature of this STP Scheme is that it provides a single point contact services for the member units, facilitating greatly in conducting various export operations at a pace quite commensurate with the global standards. The outstanding benefits and highlights of the STP/EHTP Scheme are as follows:
1. Income Tax holiday according to the section 10A of the IT Act.
2. Customs Duty Exemption on the imports of capital equipments and such equipments can also be imported on loan or lease basis.
3. All relevant equipments/goods, including the second-hand equipments, can also be imported (except the prohibited items).
4. Full Excise Duty Exemption on the procurement of indigenous items.
5. Central Sales Tax Reimbursement on the procurement of the indigenous items.
6. Green Card enabling priority treatment for the government clearances or various other services.
7. Full Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) permissible through the 'Automatic Route' of RBI.
8. Sales in the DTA (Domestic Tariff Area) up to 50% of the foreign exchange earned by the STP/EHTP units.
9. Complete Depreciation on all the capital goods over a period of five years.
10. Software units can also use the computer system for training purposes including the commercial training.