Government franchises are business models or partnerships in which the government provides business opportunities that can be run under government-sponsored schemes or programmes. These franchises, often found in the list of government franchises in India include healthcare, education, finance, and infrastructure, which give the entrepreneurs chances to make good money. Generally, a government franchise carries proportionally lower risks due to government endorsement, a well-established name, and a franchising business plan.
Some common government-based franchises include PDS, bill payments, healthcare clinics, and schools. Many government franchises not only guarantee stable revenues but also contribute to social development, fully meeting the interests of both franchisees and the population.
In this blog, we will discuss the full List of Government Franchises 2026!
What Is a Government Franchise in India?
A government franchise in India is a business model in which a government body, ministry, or public sector undertaking (PSU) authorizes private individuals or entities to operate a business under the government’s name and brand.
The objective of a commercial franchise is to run a business and earn maximum profit, whereas in a government franchise, the main objective is to provide essential services to the public in every nook and corner of the country. The main advantage of a franchise is access to the government’s infrastructure and brand name. The franchise is run directly under the guidelines of a particular department of the Indian government.
Benefits of Government Franchises
- Official Authorization: The business operates directly under the guidelines of a specific government department (e.g., the Department of Posts or the Ministry of Railways).
- Trust and Credibility: The franchisee inherits the trust that comes with the government brand.
- Low Initial Costs: Most of these have low entry costs, requiring little investment compared to similar businesses in the private sector.
- Subsidy and Support: The government often provides technical training, marketing support, and, in some cases, subsidies for infrastructure setup.
- Instant Trust and Branding: You leverage a brand that needs no introduction, creating instant customer trust.
- Stable Revenue: You guarantee a consistent customer base by providing essential services, regardless of economic circumstances.
Quick Comparison: Government vs. Private Franchise
| Feature | Government Franchise | Private Franchise |
| Primary Goal | Service Delivery & Public Welfare | Profit Maximization & Brand Expansion |
| Trust Factor | Extremely High (Instant Credibility) | Brand Dependent (Builds over time) |
| Investment | Generally Low to Moderate | Moderate to Very High |
| Profit Margins | Moderate (Stable & Consistent) | High (Variable based on performance) |
| Operational Control | Strict adherence to Government rules | High flexibility for the franchisee |
| Support System | Training & Access to Infrastructure | Intensive Training & Marketing Support |
| Contract Duration | Usually long-term | Short to medium-term |
Top Government Franchises in India 2026 – Category Wise
A. Zero / Low Investment Franchises
| Franchise Name | Category | Investment | How to Apply | Benefit |
| India Post GDS | Postal Services | Very Low (Security Deposit) | Official India Post website | Commission on postal products |
| Govt NGO Tie-up | Social Services | Very Low | Specific Ministry Portal | Project-based funding |
B. Government Authorized Franchise Models
| Franchise Name | Category | Investment | How to Apply | Benefit |
| GST Suvidha Center | Financial Services | ₹20k – ₹50k | Online via Authorized Partners | Commission on tax filings |
| Skill India Mission | Education/Training | High (Var) | NSDC Portal | Government recognized training |
| India Post | Logistics/Banking | ₹5k – ₹20k | Local Post Office | Commission on booking |
| Jan Seva Kendras | Citizen Services | ₹1 Lakh – ₹2 Lakh | State Govt Portal | Commission on digital services |
| CSC | Digital Services | ₹1 Lakh – ₹2 Lakh | CSC Portal | Wide range of B2C services |
C. Government-Linked Food & Small Business
| Franchise Name | Category | Investment | How to Apply | Benefit |
| PDS / Ration Shop | Essential Goods | ₹1 Lakh – ₹2 Lakh | State Food Dept | Fixed margin on subsidized goods |
| Khadi India | Retail | ₹5 Lakh – ₹10 Lakh | KVIC Website | High demand for eco-products |
| IRCTC Food Plaza | Food & Beverage | ₹3 Lakh – ₹5 Lakh | IRCTC Portal | Prime location high footfall |
Top 10 Government Franchises in India 2026 – Detailed Analysis
1. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL)
BPCL is a Fortune Global 500 company which is one of the leading oil and gas industries in India. It has fuel retail outlets and LPG distribution centers to offer energy products and or services to millions of people. Business opportunities that BPCL franchises include the fuel stations, gas agencies and the demand is very high coupled with the government assurance of the business. As one of the top government franchises in India, it has strong structures, modern technology and is environment friendly, which makes it a good opportunity for any entrepreneur who wishes to invest in the energy sector in India.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | 1,200 – 4,000 sq. ft. |
| Investment | ₹30 lakh – ₹2 crore |
| ROI | 15-20% |
| Royalty | As per government norms |
How to Apply:
- Submit land documentation for the proposed outlet location
- Complete financial eligibility verification
- Undergo the dealer selection process
- Complete mandatory training programs
- Execute dealership agreement
Contact Details:
- Official Site: www.bharatpetroleum.in
- Franchise Application: www.bharatpetroleum.in/ournetwork/retail.aspx
- Phone: 1800-224-344
- Email: info@bharatpetroleum.in
- Headquarters: Bharat Bhavan, 4 & 6 Currimbhoy Road, Ballard Estate, Mumbai 400001
2. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)
LIC is the biggest and oldest insurance company in India providing life insurance policies to fit every need. To become an LIC agent or franchisee is a nice chance, where people can get good commissions for selling policies. LIC has the biggest market network, a reputable brand image and government support, which makes it offer comprehensive training and support to its franchisees; thus considered to be among the leading government franchises in the financial industry and a prominent entry in the list of government franchises in India.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | N/A (home-based opportunity) |
| Investment | ₹5,000 – ₹20,000 |
| ROI | High (based on commission) |
| Royalty | None |
How to Apply:
- Pass the IRDAI licensing examination
- Complete required documentation and verification
- Undergo LIC’s agent training program
- Secure appointment letter from LIC
- Begin policy sales with ongoing support
Contact Details:
- Official Site: www.licindia.in
- Franchise Information: www.licindia.in/Join-LIC-as-an-Agent
- Phone: 022-6827 6827
- Email: agentrelations@licindia.com
- Headquarters: Yogakshema Building, Jeevan Bima Marg, Mumbai 400021
3. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
BEL is a Navratna Company of India under the Ministry of Defence, with its core business interest in electronic equipment for defense and non-defense applications. The business model of its franchises is to market and service high-end products for defense, which represent great opportunities for technical professionals. As one of the notable government franchises in India, BEL is serving as a pioneer in technological advancement in the country and in offering satisfying and secure business opportunities for franchised partners irrespective of the location.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | Varies by project |
| Investment | ₹5 lakh – ₹25 lakh |
| ROI | 10-15% |
| Royalty | None |
How to Apply:
- Submit technical qualification documentation
- Present a business proposal specific to the target market
- Complete security clearance requirements
- Undergo a technical training program
- Execute franchise agreement
Contact Details:
- Official Site: www.bel-india.in
- Partnership Information: www.bel-india.in/business-opportunities
- Phone: 080-2503 9300
- Email: partnerships@bel.co.in
- Headquarters: Outer Ring Road, Nagavara, Bangalore 560045
4. Jan Aushadhi Kendra
Jan Aushadhi Kendras are low-cost medicine outlets inaugurated under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana. These franchises provide affordable and good-quality generic medicine to the public in order to make health products accessible to everyone. Such people involved in running these outlets support a useful cause as they earn their livelihood. Being under the patronage of the government, it offers definite financial rewards, training, and guaranteed stocks of products—making this franchise opportunity not only safe but also socially responsible and a key entry in the list of government franchises in India.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | 120 – 150 sq. ft. |
| Investment | ₹2.5 lakh – ₹5 lakh |
| ROI | 15-20% |
| Royalty | None |
How to Apply:
- Identify a suitable retail location (120-150 sq. ft.)
- Submit the application with the location details
- Complete documentation verification
- Attend pharmaceutical management training
- Set up the pharmacy per the guidelines
Contact Details:
- Official Site: janaushadhi.gov.in
- Apply Online: janaushadhi.gov.in/PMJAYApplicationForm.aspx
- Phone: 1800-180-8080
- Email: pmbiinfodesk@gmail.com
- Headquarters: 8th Floor, Videocon Tower, E-1, Jhandewalan Extension, New Delhi 110055
5. Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)
PMBJP’s objective is to offer cheap and effective drugs through outlets called Jan Aushadhi Kendras. The scheme encourages the consumption of the first copy medicines than the branded medicines for the benefits of the health of citizens and money. When such entrepreneurs join PMBJP they get operational support, incentives and guaranteed markets. This franchise links profitability to public good, it attracts candidates who have passion for health and social work, not to mention the input this franchise contributes to the reform of health care in India.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | 120 – 150 sq. ft. |
| Investment | ₹2.5 lakh – ₹5 lakh |
| ROI | 15-20% |
| Royalty | None |
How to Apply:
- Identify suitable retail location (120-150 sq. ft.)
- Register on the PMBJP portal
- Submit required documentation
- Complete verification process
- Set up pharmacy per PMBJP guidelines
Contact Details:
- Official Site: janaushadhi.gov.in
- Application Portal: janaushadhi.gov.in/apply-now
- Phone: 1800-180-8080
- Email: pmbiapplications@gmail.com
- Headquarters: 8th Floor, Videocon Tower, E-1, Jhandewalan Extension, New Delhi 110055
6. Common Services Centre (CSC)
CSC is an electronic governance program by the government of India aimed at providing governance, banking, education and other essential services to rural areas. The CSCs which are being run by the entrepreneurs are providing digital services in those areas where such services are limited and act as service providers for various government and private services for which they earn. These opportunities are often included in the list of government franchises, and Through rigorous training, IT support, and constant encouragement, CSCs promote rural enterprise and reduce the digital divide, which is a critical tool for the country’s advancement.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | 100 – 300 sq. ft. |
| Investment | ₹1 lakh – ₹2 lakh |
| ROI | 15-25% |
| Royalty | None |
How to Apply:
- Register on the CSC portal
- Complete the online application form
- Submit required identity and address documentation
- Complete the Village Level Entrepreneur (VLE) training
- Set up the digital infrastructure
Contact Details:
- Official Site: www.csc.gov.in
- Registration Link: register.csc.gov.in
- Phone: 1800-121-3468
- Email: helpdesk@cscegov.in
- Headquarters: Electronics Niketan, 6 CGO Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi 110003
7. Indian Oil Corporation (IOC)
The IOCL is a Fortune 500 Company and is India’s largest oil and gas company. Its franchises are available in fuel stations, LPG distributorship and CNG outlets. IOCL franchises enjoy the presence of a strong brand image, high customer demand, and government support. Leading by the motto ‘Customers are the lifeblood of every business,’ IOCL offers excellent operational support and training and has high returns for the owners of establishments to join the network. OCL is a prominent entry in the list of government franchises in India, providing a lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | 1,200 – 4,000 sq. ft. |
| Investment | ₹25 lakh – ₹2 crore |
| ROI | 15-20% |
| Royalty | As per government norms |
How to Apply:
- Submit land documentation for proposed location
- Complete financial capability verification
- Participate in the dealer selection process
- Undergo mandatory training program
- Complete infrastructure development per guidelines
Contact Details:
- Official Site: www.iocl.com
- Dealership Information: www.iocl.com/dealer-distributor-opportunities
- Phone: 1800-2333-555
- Email: dealership@indianoil.in
- Headquarters: IndianOil Bhavan, 139 Janpath, New Delhi 110001
8. Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
KVIC markets the products of traditional and village industries, especially Khadi and Village Industries. A Khadi business is franchisable in the form of owning an outlet selling Khadi products or a small unit manufacturing Khadi products with government patronage. This unique business opportunity is often highlighted in the list of government franchises in India, making it advantageous for entrepreneurs where there is a growing trend towards green, sustainable products, employment generation in rural areas, and conservation of heritage. This, coupled with aggressive marketing and good implementation of the ‘Make in India’ concept, makes KVIC franchises a unique business proposition.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | 500 – 1,000 sq. ft. |
| Investment | ₹5 lakh – ₹10 lakh |
| ROI | 15-25% |
| Royalty | None |
How to Apply:
- Identify suitable retail location (500-1000 sq. ft.)
- Submit application to local KVIC office
- Complete documentation verification
- Attend product knowledge training
- Set up retail space according to KVIC guidelines
Contact Details:
- Official Site: www.kvic.gov.in
- Franchise Information: www.kvic.gov.in/kvicres/opportunities
- Phone: 022-2671 4320
- Email: dit@kvic.gov.in
- Headquarters: 3, Irla Road, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai 400056
9. State Bank of India (SBI)
SBI is the largest public sector bank in India with franchise opportunity through Customer Service Points (CSPs). CSPs enable business persons to offer basic banking services such as account opening, deposits, withdrawals, and remittances in areas of high exclusion. With the support of such a solid background as SBI, CSP franchises are provided with various kinds of support and training. It meets the growing demand for rural banking by enhancing financial inclusion and offering an opportunity for sustainable income and societal contribution—making it a valuable entry in the list of government franchises in India.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | 100 – 300 sq. ft. |
| Investment | ₹2 lakh – ₹5 lakh |
| ROI | 10-15% |
| Royalty | None |
How to Apply:
- Submit application to regional SBI office
- Complete educational qualification verification
- Demonstrate suitable infrastructure availability
- Complete banking operations training
- Execute Customer Service Point agreement
Contact Details:
- Official Site: www.sbi.co.in
- CSP Information: www.sbi.co.in/web/business-banking/csp-opportunities
- Phone: 1800-425-3800
- Email: customerservice@sbi.co.in
- Headquarters: State Bank Bhavan, Madame Cama Road, Mumbai 400021
10. Indian Railways
Indian Railways, one of the largest rail networks in the world, offers franchise services in food plaza, stationery, and ticket selling. Its IRCTC franchise facilitates operating food joints or becoming an authorized travel agent. Given its unique customer base and daily passenger traffic, Indian Railways offers potentially lucrative government-endorsed business ventures. These opportunities are commonly featured on lists of government franchises, and the advantages of franchising include extensive operating experience, brand recognition, and customer demand in both urban and rural areas.
| Criteria | Details |
| Area Required | Varies by project |
| Investment | ₹5 lakh – ₹25 lakh |
| ROI | 10-15% |
| Royalty | As per government norms |
How to Apply:
- Register on the IRCTC portal
- Select preferred franchise model
- Submit business proposal and documentation
- Complete verification process
- Execute franchise agreement after approval
Contact Details:
- Official Site: www.irctc.co.in
- Business Opportunities: www.irctc.co.in/nget/business-opportunities
- Phone: 011-2337 4536
- Email: franchiseopportunities@irctc.com
- Headquarters: IRCTC Building, 11th Floor, Statesman House, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi 110001
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide 2026
The process of obtaining a government franchise requires a step-by-step approach. This is due to the government’s strict regulatory requirements. The steps to secure your franchise are as follows:
- Deeply Research: Thoroughly research the requirements and profitability of the chosen government franchise.
- Verify Eligibility: Check the requirements and eligibility criteria for the chosen government franchise.
- Gather Documents: Important documents include an Aadhar card, PAN card, address proof, bank statements, and educational qualifications.
- Submit Application: Complete the application form through the official portal or submit it to the local department office.
- Await Approval: Patiently wait for the government department to review your application, verify your documents, and inspect your location.
Challenges to Consider
- Bureaucratic Processes: Government franchises can also take a long time to process applications and obtain approval, paralyzing business start-ups.
- Initial Capital Requirements: At the same time, the initial cost of a government franchise can be quite high for many budding businesspeople.
- Regulatory Compliance: Government regulations are stringent, limiting franchisees’ flexibility in running their businesses.
- Market Competition: Many government franchises may face competition from other franchises offering similar services.
- Dependence on Government Policies: Policies and funding for certain schemes can change, directly affecting the franchise business.
Conclusion
Government franchises are an interesting opportunity that combines business and civic responsibility. In government franchises, personnel establish franchises, creating an opportunity to tap into the association people have with government-backed programs. It is clear that challenges such as bureaucratic delays and a highly regulated operational environment exist, but they are sometimes outweighed by incentives.
This paper concludes that when guidelines are followed, market needs are understood and well served, and franchisees stand to reap the benefits in the long run. Over time, many government franchises have not only revolutionized business but also played a significant role in enhancing the country’s economy and society. These franchises, featured in the list of government franchises in India, can be a starting point to a more stable and meaningful business opportunit whether you are looking into a popular government franchise or a specific service type.
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FAQs
Which is the no. 1 government company in India?
Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) is the largest and most profitable government company in India. IOCL is a Maharatna PSU and offers retail fuel outlets as a franchise opportunity to entrepreneurs.
Which is the most profitable franchise in India?
Indian Oil Corporation retail outlets and IRCTC food plazas are the most profitable franchises. This is due to high customer footfall. Jan Aushadhi Kendras are also profitable franchises, driven by rising demand for generic drugs and medications.
What are the top 3 franchises?
The top three government franchises are India Post Franchise, Common Service Centres, and Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra. This is due to their high reliability and strong demand.
What does government franchise mean?
A government franchise is a business venture in which the government grants an organization the authorized right to conduct business under the government’s brand or program.
What is the list of government franchise categories in India?
This comprises CSC (Common Service Centers), Jan Aushadhi Kendras, LPG distribution agencies etc.
How does one apply for a government franchise?
Go to the government website, choose the franchise type and fill in the application.
What are the requisites needed to apply for a government franchise?
It ranges with basic requirements which include financial capacity, physical infrastructure and minimum educational standards.
What are the gains of applying for a government franchise?
They are low risks, government support, brand established, and financial support respectively.