Monday, 31 March 2025

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFP) has launched the Agro Processing Cluster Scheme under the guidance of Pradhana Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana. This scheme aims at the development of modern infrastructure to encourage entrepreneurs for setting up food processing units based on the cluster approach. In this article, we look at the Agro Processing Cluster Scheme in detail. To apply for FSSAI license in India.

Agro Processing Cluster Scheme





Objectives of the Scheme

The primary objectives of the Agro Processing Cluster Scheme are given below:

To build modern infrastructure for setting up food processing units closer to production areas.

To provide complete preservation infrastructure facilities from the farm gate to the consumer.

To create backward and forward linkages by linking groups of farmers or producers to the markets through the well-equipped supply chain.

Salient Features of the Scheme

The salient features of the Agro-processing cluster scheme are as follows:

The food processing units will be set up with an aggregate investment of minimum Rs. 25 crores in the Agro-processing cluster. These units will be set up by the promoters, associates of Project Execution Agency (PEA) and by entrepreneurs.

The modern infrastructure facilities will be developed in the agro-processing cluster for setting up food processing units. This infrastructure facilities developed in the agro-cluster will be as per the requirement of processing units to be set up in the cluster.

Agro-processing clusters will be developed by:

The promoters who are willing to develop common infrastructure in the existing food processing cluster.

The promoters who are willing to set up their processing units in the cluster and also allow for the utilization of common infrastructure to other units.

The preference will be given for setting up agro-processing clusters in the areas of horticulture or agriculture production identified by Central or State Government.

The food processing units set up in each Agro-processing cluster should generate employment opportunities for about 500 to 1500 persons.

The land required for establishing the agro-processing cluster would depend upon the business plan of the Project Execution Agency (PEA), which varies from project to project. The minimum of 10 acres of land for the project has to be arranged by the PEA either by purchase or on the lease of at least 50 years.

Components of the Scheme

The scheme will have the following two components are:

Basic enabling infrastructure

The basic enabling infrastructure includes site development such as the development of industrial plots, boundary wall, roads, drainage, water supply, electricity supply including power backup, effluent treatment plant, parking bay, weighbridges, common office space etc. However, the cost of basic enabling infrastructure will not be more than 40 % of the eligible project cost.

Core infrastructure

The core infrastructure contains common facilities based on the needs of the units, which will be set up in agro clusters. The common facilities of capital intensive include sorting and packing facilities, food testing laboratory, cleaning, grading, cold storage, steam generation boilers, dry warehouse, pre-cooling chambers, ripening chambers, IQF, specialized packaging, other common processing facilities, etc.

Pattern of Assistance

The assistance of 35% of the eligible project cost will be provided to the general areas.

The assistance of 50% of the eligible project cost not exceeding Rs.10 crores will be provided to the North Eastern States including Sikkim and Difficult areas including Himalayan States (Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand), State Notified ITDP areas and Islands.

Note: The eligible project cost will exclude the land cost, pre-operative expenses and margin money for working capital from the total project cost.

Eligible Organizations

The below following are the Project Execution Agency (PEA) eligible for financial assistance under the scheme.

Public and Private Companies

Limited liability Partnerships

Corporate entity

Proprietorship firms

Partnership firms

Joint Ventures

Central and State Public Sector Undertakings

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)

Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Cooperatives

Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

Other Conditions

The net worth of the PEA should not be less than 1.5 times the grant amount.

The PEA should provide 20% of the total project cost as equity in general areas, and for the North East States, 10% of the total project cost to be provided.

PEA should obtain term loan from the Bank or Financial Institution for an amount of less than 20% of the project cost.

Any applicant who has availed financial assistance for a project under this scheme will not be eligible to apply for another project under the same scheme until one year after commencement of the earlier project.

The Agro-processing cluster will be sanctioned in the same district where the Central Processing Centre (CPC) of Mega Food Park (MFP) is situated. The promoters, who have been sanctioned for Mega Food Parks, will be eligible under the scheme after completion of the MFP.

Documents Required

The following documents are to be furnished at the time of applying for the scheme.

Chartered Accountant certificate for actual expenditure on each of the components of the project duly certified by the PEA has to be enclosed.

Statutory Clearances / Approvals for power, water connections, etc., from the Pollution Control Board, has to be submitted.

Item wise and cost wise details of Technical civil works duly certified by authorised Civil Engineer have to be enclosed.

Item wise and cost wise details of Plant and Machinery duly certified by authorised Mechanical Engineer have to be enclosed

Statement of TRA from the Bank or Financial Institution relating to the project.

Proof of setting up food processing units along with copies of licenses issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act has to be enclosed.

Certificate from the concerned bank or financial institution which has sanctioned 100% term loan for the project has to be submitted.

Declaration of project completion and the start of commercial operation, duly certified by the bank.

Online Application Procedure for Agro Processing Cluster

To apply for Agro Processing Cluster scheme, follow the steps which are mentioned below:

Step 1: Please, visit the official portal of Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI).

 

Step 2: Now, select the name of the scheme from the list.

 

Agro Processing Cluster - Login PageAgro Processing Cluster - Login Page

Step 3: Enter the user name and password to access the particular application form.

 

Step 4: Fill the application form with the necessary details and submit the form online along with the required documents.

 

The application form for agro-processing cluster scheme is reproduced below for quick reference.

 

Step 5: On successful submission of the completed application on the Ministry’s portal, an acknowledgement number of the application will be sent on registered email IDs to the applicant for future reference.

 

Note: Subsequently, hard copy has to be sent by the applicant directly to MOFPI within 10 working days after successful uploading of the online application.

Release of Grant

The first instalment of 35% of the total approved grant is released to the PEA after acquiring an expenditure of 35% of the bank term loan and 35% promoters contribution or equity.

The second instalment of 40% of the total approved grant is released after acquiring an expenditure of 75% of the term loan from the bank and 75% of promoters’ contribution or equity.

The final instalment of 25% of the approved is on completion of the project and submission of requisite documents.


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Thursday, 27 March 2025

The National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM) is a government initiative launched by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan to promote beekeeping and honey production in India. It aims to boost farmers' income, enhance pollination, and improve the quality and quantity of honey production.

 National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM)



Key Objectives of NBHM:

  1. Increase Beekeeping & Honey Production

    • Promote scientific beekeeping practices.

    • Increase honey production and improve quality for domestic and export markets.

  2. Enhance Pollination for Better Crop Yield

    • Promote pollination through bees to improve agricultural productivity.

  3. Employment & Rural Development

    • Generate employment opportunities, especially in rural areas.

    • Encourage small and marginal farmers, women, and self-help groups (SHGs).

  4. Quality Control & Export Promotion

    • Improve the quality of honey and other bee products to meet international standards.

    • Reduce adulteration and contamination in honey.

  5. Research & Development

    • Support research on beekeeping, disease management, and new technologies.

    • Strengthen existing institutions for beekeeping research.

Key Components of NBHM:

NBHM is implemented under the Central Sector Scheme (CSS) – ‘National Beekeeping & Honey Mission’ under the National Horticulture Mission (NHM). It has three main components:

  1. Production & Productivity Improvement

    • Training and awareness programs for beekeepers.

    • Supply of bee colonies, hives, and modern beekeeping equipment.

  2. Post-Harvest & Value Addition

    • Establishment of honey processing units.

    • Quality certification and testing labs.

  3. Research & Development

    • Development of disease-resistant bee varieties.

    • Strengthening institutions like the National Bee Board (NBB) for better implementation.

Significance of NBHM:

✅ Supports Doubling Farmers' Income (by encouraging beekeeping as an additional income source).
✅ Improves crop productivity through enhanced pollination.
✅ Boosts honey exports and promotes India as a global honey hub.
✅ Encourages women & tribal communities to participate in beekeeping.

Challenges in Beekeeping in India:

  • Honey adulteration & quality concerns

  • Lack of awareness & modern technology

  • Pesticide use harming bee populations

  • Climate change & habitat loss affecting bee colonies

Conclusion:

The National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM) is a crucial step towards promoting beekeeping as a sustainable agribusiness. By supporting beekeepers with training, equipment, and quality control measures, NBHM contributes to higher crop yields, better livelihoods, and increased honey exports. 🚀🍯


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Saturday, 22 March 2025

Pawan Kumar, a farmer from Gondpur village in Himachal Pradesh’s Una District, has transformed his agricultural practice and financial situation through crop diversification. By shifting from traditional wheat and maize farming to a more diverse crop strategy, he now earns Rs 8-9 lakh annually, providing a better future for his family and creating employment opportunities for his community.

 

Himachal Farmer Pawan Kumar Earns Rs 8-9 Lakh Annually Through Crop Diversification

1. Introduction: A Farmer’s Journey to Success


2. The Initial Struggles: Limited Income from Traditional Farming

Pawan inherited 15 kanals of land from his father, Gurudas Ram. Like many farmers in the region, he relied on conventional crops such as wheat and maize. However, the earnings from these crops were insufficient to support his family, let alone save for future needs.

  • Challenges Faced:
    • Low returns from wheat and maize cultivation.
    • Rising costs of living and children's education.
    • Uncertainty due to changing weather conditions.

Farming felt like an uphill struggle, and Pawan started searching for ways to improve his income.

3. The Turning Point: Introduction to Crop Diversification

A few years ago, Pawan learned about crop diversification through a program introduced by the Department of Agriculture. The initiative encouraged farmers to grow a variety of crops to:

  • Increase yield and income.
  • Make farms more resilient to market fluctuations.
  • Reduce dependency on a single crop.

With the support of the Agriculture Department, Pawan decided to experiment with diversification.

4. Government Support and Initial Investment

The Agriculture Department provided crucial assistance, including:

  • Training on modern farming techniques.
  • Subsidized seeds and fertilizers.
  • Farming equipment such as spray pumps and seed treatment kits.

This support gave Pawan the confidence and tools needed to embark on a new journey.

5. Implementing Change: Expanding Crop Varieties

Pawan started by adding cucumbers, cowpeas, and pumpkins to his existing maize and wheat crops on his 15 kanals of land. The results were impressive—these crops provided higher yields and better market prices.

Encouraged by this success, he decided to expand his operations:

  • Leased additional land, increasing his total cultivated area to 65 kanals.
  • Introduced new vegetable crops:
    • Bottle gourd
    • Onions
    • Sponge gourd

This strategic expansion increased his income and made his farm more resistant to market price fluctuations and climate challenges.

6. Thriving During the Pandemic: A Resilient Farming Model

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many farmers faced economic hardships due to supply chain disruptions. However, Pawan’s diverse vegetable farm ensured a steady income during these uncertain times.

  • His farm became a local supplier of fresh vegetables.
  • He provided employment opportunities to 8-10 villagers, many of whom were women.
  • His diversified crops ensured continuous earnings, even when certain crops faced price drops.

This resilience demonstrated the long-term benefits of crop diversification.

7. Financial Transformation: Earning Rs 8-9 Lakh Annually

Before adopting diversification, Pawan struggled with a minimal income. Today, he earns approximately Rs 8-9 lakh per year through vegetable sales.

  • Higher profits from cash crops compared to traditional farming.
  • Consistent demand for fresh vegetables.
  • Better savings and investment opportunities for his family’s future.

This income has significantly improved his family’s living standards and financial security.

8. A Brighter Future: Improved Quality of Life

The financial success from diversified farming has led to major lifestyle improvements for Pawan and his family:

  • Quality Education for Children: He can now afford to send his children to prestigious schools.
  • Better Living Standards: Increased income allows for better housing, healthcare, and daily expenses.
  • Stronger Farm Management: Pawan and his wife now jointly manage the farm, ensuring sustainable growth.

What was once a struggle for survival has turned into a flourishing agricultural enterprise.

9. Impact on the Community: A Source of Inspiration

Pawan Kumar’s success story extends beyond his personal achievements—it has inspired other farmers in the region.

  • Job Creation: By hiring local workers, he has contributed to the village economy.
  • Knowledge Sharing: He educates fellow farmers on modern farming techniques and crop diversification benefits.
  • Motivation for Young Farmers: His story proves that with the right approach, farming can be highly profitable.

10. Key Lessons from Pawan Kumar’s Success

Pawan’s journey provides valuable insights for other farmers looking to improve their agricultural practices:

  • Crop diversification reduces financial risk and increases earnings.
  • Government support and training can be game-changers for small-scale farmers.
  • Leasing additional land can multiply profits, if managed wisely.
  • Creating local job opportunities strengthens communities and improves livelihoods.
  • Adaptability and innovation are essential for modern farming success.

11. Conclusion: A Role Model for Farmers Across India

Pawan Kumar’s transformation from a struggling traditional farmer to a high-earning progressive farmer showcases the power of innovation, resilience, and determination.

His story is a beacon of hope for farmers across India, proving that embracing change, leveraging government support, and adopting modern agricultural practices can lead to financial independence and community development.

By taking calculated risks and focusing on growth, Pawan Kumar has not only changed his own future but also uplifted his village, demonstrating that farming, when done right, can be a prosperous and sustainable livelihood.


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Thursday, 13 March 2025

The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme was introduced by the Government of India in 1998 to provide affordable credit to farmers. It allows them to borrow money at low interest rates for agricultural and allied activities, reducing their dependence on moneylenders. The scheme is implemented by commercial banks, cooperative banks, and regional rural banks (RRBs) and is monitored by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development).

 

Kisan Credit Card (KCC) – Complete Details

 



Objectives of the Kisan Credit Card Scheme

Provide timely and adequate credit to farmers for agricultural and allied activities.
Reduce the dependency on informal lenders who charge high-interest rates.
Simplify the loan process and ensure hassle-free access to funds.
Support farmers in purchasing seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other inputs.
Enable post-harvest expenses, marketing, and consumption needs of farmers.
Facilitate short-term and long-term investments in farming activities.

Eligibility Criteria

Farmers who meet the following conditions can apply for a Kisan Credit Card:

🔹 Individual farmers, tenant farmers, and sharecroppers engaged in agriculture.
🔹 Self-help groups (SHGs) and joint liability groups (JLGs) involved in farming.
🔹 Dairy, poultry, and fisheries farmers engaged in allied agricultural activities.
🔹 Orchard and plantation owners cultivating fruits and vegetables.
🔹 Farmers involved in agro-processing units and storage facilities.

Loan Coverage Under KCC

1. Crop Production Loans

💰 Covers the cost of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation.

2. Allied Agricultural Activities

🐄 Loans for dairy, poultry, fisheries, goat farming, and sericulture.

3. Post-Harvest and Marketing Expenses

🚜 Funds for harvesting, storage, transportation, and sale of produce.

4. Investment in Farm Equipment

🔧 Loans for purchasing tractors, pumps, and other farm machinery.

5. Household Needs

🏡 Includes consumption and medical expenses of farming families.

Features and Benefits of Kisan Credit Card

Loan Amount: Depends on the farm size and cropping pattern.
Low-Interest Rates: Interest starts at 4% per annum with government subsidies.
Flexible Repayment: Loan repayment is linked to crop harvesting and income cycle.
ATM & RuPay Card Facility: Farmers receive a KCC RuPay Debit Card for easy withdrawal and purchases.
Insurance Coverage: Farmers get insurance for crops and accidental coverage up to ₹50,000.
Tenure: Loans can be repaid within 3-5 years.
Collateral-Free Loans: Loans up to ₹1.6 lakh require no security.

Interest Rates and Government Subsidies

  • The government provides interest subvention (subsidy) on loans.
  • Farmers get 2% interest subvention on loans up to ₹3 lakh.
  • If they repay the loan on time, they receive an additional 3% rebate, reducing the effective interest rate to 4% per annum.

How to Apply for a Kisan Credit Card?

Farmers can apply for a KCC through:

🏦 Banks: Visit any commercial bank, cooperative bank, or rural bank.
🌐 Online: Apply through bank websites like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, PNB, and others.
📜 Common Service Centers (CSC): Apply through CSCs in rural areas.

Documents Required

📜 Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID (for identity verification).
🏡 Land ownership documents or lease agreement (for tenant farmers).
📋 Bank account details and passport-size photos.

Conclusion

The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme is a lifeline for Indian farmers, providing them with easy and affordable credit to support their agricultural needs. It helps in reducing debt burdens, promoting modern farming practices, and improving financial stability in rural areas. Farmers are encouraged to utilize KCC loans wisely and take advantage of government subsidies for maximum benefits. 🚜🌾


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