The National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Scheme is a central sector scheme launched on April 14, 2016 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. The Small Farmers’ Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC) is the nodal agency and the iKisan division of Nagarjuna Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited (NFCL) is the technology provider for the e-NAM platform. The scheme aims to promote uniformity in agriculture marketing by streamlining the procedures across integrated markets, removing information asymmetry between buyers and sellers and promoting real-time price discovery based on actual demand and supply.

Scheme Overview:

National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal that networks existing Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) mandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities. The e NAM platform aims to promote better marketing opportunities for farmers to sell their produce through an online competitive and transparent price discovery system and online payment facility. The program’s goals include integrating markets, initially at the level of the States and eventually at the national level; streamlining marketing and transaction processes; encouraging better marketing opportunities for farmers; establishing quality assaying systems; and promoting stable prices and consumer access to high-quality produce. The scheme components include the selection of State’s/UT’s APMCs/RMCs, provision of e-NAM software to States/UTs free of cost, financial assistance and technical assistance.

Features of National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Scheme:

• Electronic trading portal: The platform uses technology to enable seamless trading of agricultural produce among different states, allowing farmers to sell their produce to buyers from other states, thereby increasing their market reach.
• Single window services: The e-NAM platform provides a single window for all APMC related information and services, making it easier for farmers to access the information they need. It provides real-time information on commodity arrivals, quality and prices, buy and sell offers and e-payment settlement directly into farmers’ accounts, thereby reducing the hassle of dealing with multiple parties for different services.
• Uniform marketing procedures: The scheme aims to streamline marketing and transaction procedures and make them uniform across all markets to promote efficient functioning of the markets. This helps to ensure that all farmers and buyers have a level playing field and reduces the scope for malpractices.
• Quality assurance: The e-NAM platform aims to establish quality assaying systems to promote informed bidding by buyers. This helps to ensure that buyers are aware of the quality of the produce they are buying and farmers are incentivized to produce better quality crops.
• Better marketing opportunities for farmers: By removing information asymmetry between farmers and traders, improving real-time price discovery based on actual demand and supply of agri-commodities, transparency in the auction process, prices commensurate with quality of produce, online payment, etc., the e-NAM platform aims to promote better marketing opportunities for farmers/sellers. As a result, farmers receive higher prices for their produce and rely less on middlemen.
• Financial support: The programme offers financial support to the State or UT for certain APMCs or RMCs, up to a maximum of Rs. 30.00 lakhs per market, to help with the costs of purchasing hardware, five internet connections, assaying equipment, and other necessary infrastructure to prepare the market for integration with the e-NAM platform. 
• Technical assistance: The scheme provides technical assistance through Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC), the Lead Implementing Agency (LIA) and Strategic Partner (SP) Nagarjuna Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd. (NFCL) for implementation of the e-NAM platform. This helps to ensure that all stakeholders are trained and equipped to use the platform effectively, thereby increasing its adoption and impact.

Latest News about the Scheme: 

According to the latest data from the Press Information Bureau portal in December 2022, the e-NAM platform has integrated with 1260 mandis across 22 states and 3 Union Territories. This integration has facilitated the trading of various agricultural commodities. The total volume of these commodities, which includes bamboo, betel leaves, coconut, lemon, and sweet corn, is worth approximately Rs. 2.22 lakh crore of trade that has been recorded on the e-NAM platform.

Benefits of the e-NAM scheme:

The benefits of the e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Scheme are as follows:

• Farmers can sell their produce through an online platform with competitive and transparent price discovery system
• Farmers gain access to multiple markets and buyers through digital channels
• Uniformity in agriculture marketing is promoted through streamlining of procedures across integrated markets
• Information asymmetry between buyers and sellers is eliminated
• Real-time price discovery is promoted based on actual demand and supply
• Online payment settlement is made directly into farmers’ accounts

Drawbacks of e-National Agriculture Market: 

• Limited reach: The e-NAM platform is only available in the markets that are integrated with the platform.
• Limited crop coverage: Although the platform supports trading of multiple crops, the range of crops traded on the platform is still limited and many crops are still not covered.
• Dependence on infrastructure: The success of the e-NAM platform depends on the availability of necessary infrastructure, including hardware, internet connections and assaying equipment, which may be a challenge in some areas.
• Lack of awareness: Many farmers are still not aware of the e-NAM platform and its benefits, which limits its reach and potential impact.

How to Apply for the e-NAM scheme:

• Step 1: The farmer must register on the e-NAM portal by providing the required details such as name, address, contact details and bank account details.
• Step 2: After registration, the farmer can list their produce for sale on the e-NAM portal.
• Step 3: Interested buyers can view the listed produce and place bids on them.
• Step 4: The farmer can choose to accept or reject the bid.
• Step 5: If the bid is accepted, the payment is made online and directly into the farmer’s account.
• Step 6: The farmer can then deliver the produce to the buyer.

Documents Required for e-NAM:

The documents required to apply for the (e-NAM) e-National Agriculture Market Scheme are mentioned below:

• Aadhaar card
• PAN card
• Bank account details
• Land ownership documents

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, the e-NAM scheme has been instrumental in promoting uniformity in agriculture marketing and creating a unified national market for agricultural commodities. The scheme has enabled farmers to sell their produce through an online competitive and transparent price discovery system and online payment facilities, benefiting all the stakeholders, including farmers, mandis, traders, buyers, processors and exporters. The scheme has also reduced transaction costs, increased accessibility to markets and enhanced price realization for farmers. The e-NAM yojana is a significant step towards transforming the agricultural sector in India and achieving the goal of doubling farmers’ income.

Explore the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) to learn how it aids in building modern infrastructure and improving supply chain efficiency.

The One District One Product (ODOP) scheme, launched by the Indian government in 2018, is an initiative aimed at promoting traditional and indigenous industries across the country. The primary objective of the scheme is to identify and develop a particular product in each district that has the potential to create sustainable employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy. The scheme also provides support for branding, design and packaging to improve the marketing and sales of these products. By focusing on the development of specific products in each district, the ODOP scheme aims to create local employment opportunities and improve the socio-economic conditions of the people in those districts.

• Scheme Name: One District One Product Scheme
• Scheme Modified: N/A
• Scheme Money Allocated: INR 5,000 crore
• Type Government Scheme: Central Government of India
• Sponsored / Sector Scheme: Sponsored Scheme
• Website to apply: https://odop.gov.in/
• Helpline No.: 1800115565
• Scheme Type: National Scheme
• Covered States: The ODOP Scheme covers all states across India, including Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal.

Features of One District One Product Scheme: 

Latest News about the ODOP Scheme: 

The ODOP GeM Bazaar was launched on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) to promote sales and procurement of ODOP products across the country. The ODOP initiative was identified for the prestigious Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration in Holistic Development through the ODOP category in April 2022. Many state governments have allocated funds to promote and develop ODOP products, and are taking steps to improve the marketing and sales of these products. The government of Madhya Pradesh has also launched an e-commerce platform for ODOP products to make it easier for consumers to purchase these products online.

One District One Product Benefits:

• Identification of prospective items in each region to develop an export center
• Assistance to local businesses to scale up their manufacturing
• Creation of job possibilities in the district \Promotion of exports, manufacturing, and services industry in the district 
• Encourages value chain development and alignment of support infrastructure

Drawback of the ODOP Yojana:

While the strategy concentrates on perishable products, it may not be effective for farmers who do not grow such products.

How to Apply for One District One Product Scheme?

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the One District One Product Scheme:

1. Visit the official website of the One District One Product Scheme
2. Find the ‘Apply Now’ button on the website and click on it to begin the application process
3. Read the instructions carefully and fill in the application form with all the required details
4. Upload the necessary documents
5. Once you have filled in all the details and uploaded the required documents, submit the application form
6. After submitting the application form, you will receive an acknowledgement receipt with a unique application ID
7. The application will be processed by the concerned department and verified for eligibility
8. If your application is accepted, you will receive an approval letter with details on the amount of funding, terms and conditions and timelines for implementation.
9. You can then start the project implementation and claim the funds as per the approved pattern of funding.
10. Ensure that you comply with all the terms and conditions of the scheme and submit the progress reports and utilization certificates on time to continue receiving the funding

Documents Required:

• Aadhar Card 
• PAN Card 
• Bank Account Details 
• Land Ownership Documents 
• GST Registration 

Conclusion:

The One District One Product Yojana is an important project of the Indian government to identify and promote prospective products in each district of the country, thereby creating an export hub and generating employment possibilities in the area. The project utilizes the One District One Product (ODOP) method to enable local manufacturers to scale up their manufacturing and develop exports, manufacturing and services industry in the area.

Explore how the One Nation One Fertilizer initiative is revolutionizing fertilizer distribution for farmers nationwide.

A central sector scheme called Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM KISAN) was introduced by the Indian government in 2019. It aims to provide income support to small and marginal farmers and their families. The scheme was launched with the objective of providing financial assistance to 14.5 crore beneficiaries on the basis of the Agriculture Census 2015-16. The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmer’s Welfare.

Scheme Overview

The scheme was first implemented in Telangana as the Rythu Bandhu scheme, and later, it was announced as a nationwide project during the 2019 Interim Union Budget of India. On February 24, 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the PM-KISAN scheme in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Under this scheme, all small and marginal farmers would receive income support which will be paid to them in three installments of Rs. 6,000 each directly into their bank accounts. The scheme is a central sector scheme with 100% funding from the Indian Government.

The scheme is applicable to all farmer families in the country irrespective of the size of their landholdings, including both urban and rural agriculture cultivating lands only. The definition of family for the scheme is husband, wife, and minor children owning cultivable land as per land records of the concerned State/UT. Institutional landholders, present or retired employees of state/central government/PSUs, income tax payees, farmer families holding constitutional posts, professionals like doctors, engineers, and lawyers, and retired pensioners with a monthly pension of over Rs 10,000 are excluded from the scheme.

• Scheme Name: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM KISAN)
• Scheme Modified: Effective from 2018
• Scheme Fund Allocated: Rs. 75,000 crores annually
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Sector Scheme
• Sponsored / Sector Scheme: All farmer families in the country irrespective of the size of their landholdings (both urban and rural- agriculture cultivating lands only)
• Website to apply: https://pmkisan.gov.in/
• Helpline No: PM-Kisan Helpline No. 155261 / 1800115526 (Toll-Free)

Features of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi

The key features of the PM-KISAN scheme are as follows:

• Assistance: Rs. 6,000 per year to all eligible farmers and their families in three equal installments of Rs. 2,000 each every four months
• Eligibility: All farmer families in the country (both urban and rural) that own cultivable land as per land records of the concerned State/UT, except for those who are institutional landholders, income taxpayers, retired pensioners with a monthly pension of over Rs. 10000/-, farmer families holding constitutional posts and professionals like doctors, engineers and lawyers.
• Identification of beneficiaries: Responsibility rests with State/UT Governments.
• Exclusion: Tenant farmers, micro land holdings that are not cultivable and agricultural land being used for non-agricultural purposes are excluded from the scheme.

Benefits

• The main benefit of the PM-KISAN scheme is to provide income support to small and marginal farmers.
• This financial assistance will help farmers meet their farm-related expenses and improve their livelihood. 
• This scheme will also help in reducing the gap between rural and urban incomes, thus promoting balanced regional growth. 
• The scheme will provide a direct benefit transfer to farmers, eliminating middlemen and corruption in the process.

Drawback of the Scheme

A certain segment of farmers, like taxpayers, retired pensioners with more than Rs. 10,000/- pension, doctors etc. are eligible for this scheme. 

How to Apply?

To register for the PM-KISAN scheme, follow these steps:

1. Go to the official website of the PM-KISAN scheme at https://pmkisan.gov.in/
2. Look for the “Farmers Corner” tab on the top right corner of the homepage and click on it.
3. Click on  “New Farmer Registration” from the options provided.
4. Fill in your Aadhaar number, full name and the image text in the necessary fields.
5. Click on the “Click to Continue” button.
6. Provide your bank account details and the relevant landholding documents in the required fields.
7. Finally, click on the “Submit” button to complete the registration process.

Documents Required

The following documents are required to apply for the PM-KISAN scheme:

• Aadhaar Card
• Bank account details (account number, branch code and IFSC code)
• Landholding documents (as per land records of the concerned State/UT)
• Mobile number (optional but recommended)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM KISAN) scheme is a much-needed initiative by the Indian government to support the country’s small and marginal farmers. The scheme’s objective to provide income support through direct transfer to their bank accounts has already benefited a considerable number of beneficiaries. However, the exclusion categories in the scheme must be revisited to ensure that all eligible farmers receive the benefits. If implemented effectively and monitored closely, the PM KISAN scheme has the potential to transform the lives of farmers and bring about a positive change in the agriculture sector of India.

The Reforms-based and Results linked, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme was launched in the year 2021 by the Ministry of Power, with the aim of improving the quality, reliability and affordability of power supply to consumers in India. The scheme focuses on reducing the AT&C (Aggregate Technical and Commercial) losses to pan-India levels of 12-15% and the ACS-ARR (Average Cost of Supply-Average Revenue Realized) gap to zero by 2024-25.

Overview

The scheme aims to develop institutional capabilities for modern DISCOMS, improve the quality, reliability and affordability of power supply to consumers and reduce the AT&C losses and the ACS-ARR gap. The scheme has two parts: Metering & Distribution Infrastructure Works, Training & Capacity Building and other Enabling & Supporting Activities. The financial outlay for the scheme is Rs 3,03,758 crore, with an estimated Gross Budgetary Support from the Central Government of Rs. 97,631 crore. The scheme is available till the year 2025-26 and is open to both Central and State Governments. The release of funds under the scheme has been linked to results and reforms and pre-qualifying criteria need to be mandatorily met by the DISCOMS before they can be evaluated for the release of funds under the scheme.

• Scheme Name : Reforms-based and Results linked, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme
• Scheme Modified: Launched in 2021
• Scheme Fund Allocated: Rs 3,03,758 crore with an estimated Gross Budgetary Support from the Central Government of Rs. 97,631 crore
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Government of India
• Sponsored / Sector Scheme: Sector Scheme
• Website to apply: https://powermin.gov.in/
• Helpline No.: 1800-180-4343

Features

The objective of the scheme is to reduce the AT&C (Aggregate Technical and Commercial) losses to pan-India levels of 12-15% and the ACS-ARR (Average Cost of Supply-Average Revenue Realized) gap to zero by 2024-25. The assistance will be based on meeting pre-qualifying criteria and achievement benchmarks of basic minimum. It aims to develop institutional capabilities for modern DISCOMS and improve the quality, reliability and affordability of power supply to consumers.

The scheme has two parts, Metering & Distribution Infrastructure Works and Training & Capacity Building and other Enabling & Supporting Activities. The scheme covers approximately 25 crore consumers with prepaid smart metering. The key features of the scheme are that it is available until 2025-26 and leverage of artificial intelligence to analyze data generated through information technology, operational technology devices, including system meters and prepaid smart meters. Existing power sector reform schemes will be merged into the umbrella program, and the release of funds has been linked to results and reforms.

Latest news about the scheme

The Indian government has decided to privatize power departments and utilities in Union Territories under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan to reform the power sector. Privatization will bring in private capital, new technologies, innovations, and competition to improve operational and financial efficiencies, leading to better services for consumers. The revamped Distribution Sector Scheme is linked to results and focuses on improving operational and financial efficiencies, leading to a decline in AT&C losses and ACS-ARR Gap, indicating a positive impact on the sector.

Benefits

There are the benefits of the Reforms-based and Results linked, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme:

• Improved operational and financial efficiencies of power utilities.
• Reduction in Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses.
• Reduction in the gap between Average Cost of Supply (ACS) and Average Revenue Realized (ARR) for distribution companies.
• Better financial management for power utilities.
• Sustainability of the power sector.
• More accurate subsidies for distribution companies.
• Better quality of electricity supply.
• Increased competition in the power sector.
• Implementation of new technologies and innovations.
• Increased efficiency in power generation and distribution.
• Better services for consumers.
• Increased accountability for power utilities.

Drawback

The scheme covers agricultural connections only through Feeder Meters. Therefore, if a farmer does not have access to Feeder Meters, the scheme may not be useful for them.

How to Apply?

Here are the steps to apply for the Reforms-based and Results linked, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme:

Step 1: Visit the official website of the Ministry of Power, Government of India.

Step 2: Look for the “Schemes” section on the website and click on the “Distribution Sector Scheme” link.

Step 3: Read the guidelines and eligibility criteria carefully.

Step 4: Download the application form and fill in the required details.

Step 5: Attach the necessary documents, including proof of identity, proof of address and proof of ownership of the power utility.

Step 6: Submit the completed application form along with the supporting documents to the designated address mentioned in the guidelines.

Step 7: Wait for the authorities to process the application.

Step 8: Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification from the authorities.

Step 9: Follow the instructions given in the notification to avail the benefits of the scheme.

It is important to note that the application process and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the state or union territory in which the power utility is located. Therefore, it is advisable to check the guidelines and eligibility criteria specific to your state or union territory before applying for the scheme.

Documents Required

The following is a list of documents required for the application of this scheme:

1. Audited financial statements of the power utility for the last three years
2. A detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed reforms and measures to be implemented under the scheme
3. A plan for reduction of Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses
4. A plan for reducing the gap between Average Cost of Supply (ACS) and Average Revenue Realized (ARR)
5. Details of existing power purchase agreements (PPAs) and proposed PPAs
6. A plan for improving customer services and grievance redressal mechanisms
7. A plan for the adoption of new technologies and innovations to improve efficiency
8. Details of the existing transmission and distribution infrastructure and proposed infrastructure improvements
9. A plan for metering and billing improvements
10. Details of any ongoing legal disputes or regulatory proceedings involving the power utility.

Conclusion

The Reforms-based and Results linked, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme aims to reduce AT&C losses to pan-India levels and the ACS-ARR gap to zero by 2024-25. It covers approximately 25 crore consumers with prepaid smart metering, aims to improve the quality, reliability and affordability of power supply to consumers and prioritizes the urban areas, UTS, AMRUT cities and High Loss areas. The scheme aims to enhance the operational efficiencies and financial sustainability of all DISCOMS (excluding private sectors)/ Power Departments by providing conditional financial assistance to DISCOMs.

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) was launched on 18th February 2016 with the objective to support sustainable production in the agriculture sector. The scheme aims to provide compensation to farmers suffering crop damage or loss arising out of unforeseen events, stabilize farmer’s income, encourage them to adopt innovative and modern agricultural practices, ensure the flow of credit to the agriculture sector, and protect farmers from production risks.

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
• Scheme Modified: The scheme was implemented on 18th February 2016 and was modified on 13th January 2020.
• Scheme Fund Allocated: Rs. 15,500 crores for the financial year 2022-23.
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Government Scheme.
• Sponsored / Sector Scheme: Sponsored by the central government.
• Website to apply: http://agricoop.gov.in/
• Helpline No.: 1800-11-5526.

Features of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana provides financial support to farmers in case of damage to their crops due to natural calamities, pests and diseases. The scheme covers all food crops, oilseeds and annual commercial or horticultural crops. The following are the features of the scheme:

• The scheme is voluntary for non-loanee farmers, and it is compulsory for all farmers availing of Seasonal Agricultural Operations (SAO) loans from financial institutions.
• The scheme provides comprehensive risk insurance for standing crops from sowing to harvesting, including drought, dry spells, flood, inundation, pests and diseases, landslides, natural fire, lightning, storm, hailstorm, cyclone, typhoons, tempests, hurricanes, tornados.
• The scheme provides coverage for prevented sowing, localized calamities, and post-harvest losses. It protects farmers from financial losses when they cannot plant their crops due to uncontrollable factors. Prevented sowing coverage is available if purchased before the planting deadline established by the insurer. If the prevented sowing conditions are covered, the farmer will be reimbursed for the costs of preparing the land and purchasing inputs. However, the farmer will not receive compensation for the expected yield or revenue that would have been generated from the crop since it was not planted. 
• The scheme also includes special efforts to ensure the maximum coverage of SC/ST/women farmers under the scheme.

The following table provides a brief summary of the scheme’s features:

Benefits of the scheme

• The scheme aims to support sustainable production in the agriculture sector by providing compensation to farmers suffering crop loss or damage caused by unforeseen events.
• The scheme stabilizes the income of farmers to ensure their continuance in farming.
• The scheme encourages farmers to adopt innovative and modern agricultural practices.
• The scheme ensures the credit flow to the agriculture sector, attributing to food security, diversification of crop and enhancing the growth and competitiveness of the agriculture sector.

Drawback 

The scheme has faced criticism for not being useful to all farmers, especially those who belong to certain segments. The non-loanee farmers are eligible to get the coverage, but they are required to submit necessary documentary evidence of land records prevailing in the state (Records of Right (RoR), Land Possession Certificate (LPC), etc.) and applicable contract/agreement details (in case of sharecroppers/tenant farmers). It may not be possible for some farmers to fulfill these requirements.

How to Apply?     

Here are the step-by-step instructions for the application process for PMFBY:

• Step 1: Visit the official website of the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare at http://agricoop.gov.in/ 
• Step 2: Look for the “Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana” tab on the homepage and click on it.
• Step 3: Read the information provided on the page carefully to understand the scheme’s benefits, coverage, and eligibility criteria.
• Step 4: Click on the “Apply Online” link on the page to proceed with the application process.
• Step 5: Fill out the application form with all the necessary details, such as your name, contact details, bank account information, and crop details.
• Step 6: Upload the required documents, such as land records and applicable contract/agreement details.
• Step 7: Review all the information provided and ensure that it is correct before submitting the application.
• Step 8: After submitting the application, you will receive a confirmation message or email.
• Step 9: Track the application status using the application reference number provided to you.
• Step 10: Once the application is approved, you will receive an insurance policy document.

Note: Non-loanee farmers are not mandated to apply for the scheme, and it is voluntary. However, farmers who avail of Seasonal Agricultural Operations (SAO) loans from financial institutions are obligated to participate in the scheme. Additionally, the scheme is committed to ensuring maximum coverage of SC/ST/women farmers

Documents Required 

Here is a list of documents required for Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):

1. Necessary documentary evidence of land records prevailing in the State (Records of Right (RoR), Land Possession Certificate (LPC), etc.)
2. Applicable contract/agreement details (in case of sharecroppers/tenant farmers)
3. Loan documents provided by the financial institution (for farmers who avail of Seasonal Agricultural Operations (SAO) loans)
4. Identity proof (Aadhaar card, Voter ID, etc.)
5. Bank account details (for direct benefit transfer)
6. Duly filled application form
7. Premium payment receipt (if applicable)
8. Any other document(s) required by the insurance company or the State Government

Farmers who avail of Seasonal Agricultural Operations (SAO) loans from financial institutions are obligated to participate in the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). To apply for the scheme, these farmers are required to submit the necessary documentary evidence of land records prevailing in the State (Records of Right (RoR), Land Possession Certificate (LPC), etc.), applicable contract/agreement details (in case of sharecroppers/tenant farmers), loan documents provided by the financial institution, and any other documents required by the insurance company or the State Government. Farmers need to check with their financial institutions for any additional documents that may be required.

Conclusion  

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is an excellent scheme that aims to insure the uncertainty in the agriculture sector by providing compensation to farmers suffering crop loss/damage arising out of unforeseen events. The scheme also encourages farmers to adopt innovative and modern agricultural practices and ensures the flow of credit to the agriculture sector. However, the scheme has some drawbacks and special efforts must be made to ensure maximum coverage of farmers under the scheme.

Krishi Udan Scheme is a central government scheme initiated to provide seamless, cost-effective, time-bound air transportation and associated logistics for all agri-produce. The scheme is sponsored by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and implemented by AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Ltd. The objective of the scheme is to increase the share of air transport in the modal mix for transportation of Agri-produce and improve value realization. Krishi Udan 2.0, proposed in 2021, has allocated Rs. 1000 crores for the scheme, with additional funds to be allocated.

Scheme Overview

The Krishi Udan Scheme offers subsidies to airlines provided by Central, State and Airport authorities. The scheme is applicable to all agricultural producers, especially from Northeast, hilly and tribal regions of India. Participating airports include 58 airports across India listed under the scheme. The scheme covers perishable agricultural products such as milk, meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, flowers and processed products. The scheme offers a waiver of airport charges such as parking charges and terminal navigation landing charges on select airports if the agricultural cargo is over 50% of the total chargeable weight carried.

• Scheme Modified: Krishi Udan 2.0, proposed in 2021
• Scheme Fund Allocated: Rs. 1000 crores for Krishi Udan Scheme, additional funds to be allocated for Krishi Udan 2.0
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Government of India
• Sponsored / Sector Scheme: Sponsored by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and implemented by AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Ltd.
• Website to apply: www.aai.aero
• Helpline No.: 18002660743

Features

Latest News about the scheme

The scheme will be implemented at 53 airports across the country, with a focus on the northeast and tribal regions. The Union aviation ministry plans to pilot the scheme for six months, with amendments based on the experience of stakeholders. The Krishi Udan scheme has been formulated with support from AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Limited, a subsidiary of the Airports Authority of India and Invest India, India’s national investment promotion agency. The scheme offers a full waiver of charges such as landing and parking for Indian freighters at selected airports.

Union aviation minister J M Scindia said that the Krishi Udan scheme would open up new avenues of growth for the agriculture sector by removing barriers in the supply chain, logistics and transportation of farm produce. The convergence between the agriculture and aviation sectors is possible due to the evolutionary possible use of biofuel for aircraft in the future, the use of drones in the agriculture sector and greater integration and value realization of agricultural products through schemes like Krishi UDAN.

The Krishi Udan scheme will create airside transit and trans-shipment infrastructure at eight airports, including Bagdogra, Guwahati, Leh, Srinagar, Nagpur, Nashik, Ranchi and Raipur. Seven focus routes and the agro products to be flown from there have been identified, including Amritsar-Dubai for baby corn, Darbhanga-rest of India for litchis, Sikkim-rest of India for organic produce, Chennai, Visakhapatnam and Kolkata – far east for seafood, Agartala-Delhi and Dubai for pineapple, Dibrugarh to Delhi and Dubai for mandarin and oranges and Guwahati-Hong Kong for pulses, fruits and vegetables. The Krishi Udan scheme is expected to benefit farmers, freight forwarders and airlines.

Benefits

The Krishi Udan Scheme offers the following benefits:

• Ensures seamless, affordable and timely air transportation for all the  perishable agricultural produce
• Facilitates the transportation of agri-produce, including horticulture, fishery, livestock, and processed products, from one place to another through special airplanes
• Increases the share of air in the modal mix for transportation of Agri-produce
• Improves value realization through better integration and optimization of Agri-harvesting and air transportation
• Contributes to Agri-value chain sustainability and resilience under different and dynamic conditions

Drawback

One of the limitations of the Krishi Udan Scheme is that it may not effectively cater to the needs of small farmers who might not have sufficient agricultural produce to take advantage of the scheme.

The Krishi Udan Scheme primarily focuses on the transportation of fruits, vegetables, flowers and other perishable agricultural products. However, there are several other types of crops that are not covered under the scheme, such as:

• Cereals – wheat, rice, maize, barley and oats.
• Pulses – lentils, chickpeas, beans and peas.
• Oilseeds – soybean, sunflower, groundnut and sesame.
• Spices – cumin, coriander, turmeric and cardamom.
• Sugarcane
• Cotton 
• Tea and coffee 

These crops are an integral part of India’s agricultural sector and are grown in large quantities across the country. 

How to Apply?

The procedure to apply for the Krishi Udan Scheme is as follows:

• Visit the AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Ltd website – www.aai.aero
• Register and login to the website
• Fill in the required details in the application form
• Upload the necessary documents
• Submit the application

Documents Required

The following documents are required to apply for the Krishi Udan Scheme:

• Aadhar Card
• PAN Card
• Bank Account Details
• Certificate of Registration of the Company/Firm
• FSSAI License
• Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) Certificate
• Transport Vehicle Registration Number

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Krishi Udan Scheme is a central government-sponsored initiative that aims to provide seamless, cost-effective and time-bound air transportation and associated logistics for all agri-produce. The scheme covers perishable agricultural products, including milk, meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, flowers and processed products. The Krishi Udan Scheme offers subsidies to airlines provided by Central, State and Airport authorities. The scheme has been modified in its second phase, Krishi Udan 2.0, with Rs. 1000 crores allocated for it, with additional funds to be allocated. The scheme has identified seven focus routes and products to be flown from there. While the scheme offers several benefits, including increased value realization and improved integration, it may not cater to the needs of small farmers and other crops not covered under the scheme. Overall, the Krishi Udan Scheme has the potential to contribute to the sustainability and resilience of the Agri-value chain.

GOBARdhan or Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan was launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, which is now known as the Jal Shakti Ministry. GOBARdhan scheme focuses on supporting rural households and farmers to undertake management of cattle waste in a scientific and hygienic manner. The main aim of the scheme is to promote sustainable management of cattle waste and generate biogas and organic fertilizer from it. 

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan) 
• Scheme Implemented: 2018 
• Scheme Fund Allocated: 10,000 crores 
• Type of Government Scheme: Centrally Sponsored Scheme 
• Sector / Sponsored Scheme: Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation 
• Website to apply: https://sbm.gov.in/  
• Helpline No: 011-24362129 

Features of GOBARdhan Scheme

Project Models of GOBARdhan Scheme

Gobardhan scheme can be implemented through various project models depending on the local conditions, availability of resources and needs of the community. The following are the 4 major project models of Gobardhan scheme, 

• Individual Household: Households which have three or more cattles can adopt this model. Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) will provide technical and financial assistance to households for constructing biogas plants. Biogas and Slurry generated from the plant can be used for cooking and manure by households and any surplus can be sold in the market. 
• Community: Under this model, biogas plant can be constructed for a minimum number of households (5 to 10). The biogas produced can be used for cooking and lighting, and organic fertilizers can be used for agriculture. The project can be managed by Gram Panchayat / Self-help groups. 

• Clusters: This model involves setting up a biogas plant in a cluster of villages, where the organic waste from all the villages is collected and processed in the biogas plant. The biogas and organic fertilizers produced can be shared among the villages and surplus can be sold in the market.  
• Commercial CBG (Compressed Biogas): In this model, raw biogas produced is compressed and can be used as vehicular fuel or sold to industries. Slurry generated is converted into bio-fertilizer and can be sold to farmers. Compressed biogas plants can be operated by Entrepreneurs / Cooperative Societies / Gaushalas etc. 

Latest News about GOBARdhan Scheme

Recently, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of 500 new ‘Waste to Wealth’ plants under the scheme for promoting circular economy with total investment of 10,000 crore.  

• Out of these 500 plants, 200 plants for compressed biogas (75 plants in rural plants) 
• 300 – community or cluster-based plants. 

Benefits of GOBARdhan Scheme

• The scheme provides a source of income to farmers by helping them to convert cattle waste into organic fertilizers, biogas and other by-products. This can help farmers generate additional income by reducing their input costs. 
• The use of organic fertilizers helps improve soil health, which in turn leads to better crop yields and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. This can be beneficial for farmers in the long run as it could reduce their dependence on expensive inputs. 
• By converting cattle waste into organic fertilizers and bio-gas, the scheme helps to reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable farming practices.  

Challenges

• The success of the scheme depends on the active participation of farmers and villagers. Due to lack of awareness and incentives, many people are not interested in participating in the scheme.  
• The scheme requires setting up of bio-gas plants and storage facilities which is a significant challenge in many rural areas. 

Documents Required

• Aadhar Card 
• Residence Certificate 
• Passport size photograph 

How to apply?

Step 1: Visit the official website at  http://sbm.gov.in/Gobardhan/ 

Step 2: On the Homepage, Click on the ‘Registration’ icon 

Step 3: Application form will be displayed in the screen 

Step 4: Enter all the required details in application form (Mention personal details, address details, registration details like user id, password, mobile number, OTP etc.) 

Step 5: After completing the application form, Submit it online. 

Step 6: After successful registration, applicant farmers can login into their account by using username and password. 

Conclusion

The GOBARdhan scheme is expected to not only benefit the rural population by providing a source of renewable energy and organic fertilizer, but it will also help in reducing pollution caused by open burning of cattle dung and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. 

Sericulture refers to the cultivation of silk by rearing silkworms, and it is an important agro-based industry that generates income and employment for millions of people. Silk Samagra: Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry – 2 was launched by Ministry of Textiles under Government of India in 2021. The silk samagra 2 scheme provides a comprehensive package of support to sericulture farmers in India. The main aim of the scheme is to enhance the livelihoods of silk farmers and promote the growth and development of the silk industry in the country. 

Scheme Overview

• Scheme Name: Silk Samagra: Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry – 2 
• Scheme Implemented: 2021 
• Scheme Fund Allocated: Rs. 4679.86 crore 
• Type of Government Scheme: Central Sector Scheme 
• Sponsored / Sector Scheme: Ministry of Textiles 
• Website to apply: NA 
• Helpline No: 080-26282612 

Features of Silk Samagra – 2

Latest News about Silk Samagra-2 Scheme

• Recently, Silk Samagra-2 Scheme has achieved its success for increasing the export of raw silk from India to other countries. 

Benefits of Silk Samagra-2 Scheme

• The scheme provides financial assistance to farmers and silk producers to set up sericulture units, purchase equipment and other expenses related to sericulture. 

• Silk Samagra-2 scheme provides training to farmers and silk producers on modern techniques of sericulture, which can help them to increase their productivity and improve the quality of silk. 
• The scheme facilitates market linkages for farmers, which can help them to get better prices for their silk. The scheme also provides certification for silk products which helps to promote the export of silk and increase its value in the global market. 

Challenges of Silk Samagra-2 Scheme

• Many farmers and silk producers are not aware of the benefits of the scheme. 
• Climate change and natural disasters such as floods and droughts can have a significant impact on sericulture, affecting the production and quality of silk and causing losses for farmers. 

Documents Required

• Aadhar Card 
• PAN Card 
• Bank Account Details 
• Electricity bill  
• Other relevant business documents 

How to apply?

• To apply for this scheme, Visit the Department of Sericulture in your District 
• While visiting the office, take all the required documents with you  
• Get the application form for Silk Samagra-2 scheme from the respective authority  
• Fill in all the asked information carefully in the application form and attach the necessary documents mentioned in the form 
• After filling all the required information, Submit your application form 

Conclusion

Overall, Silk Samagra-2 schemes promotes the production and development of silk industry in India, with a focus on improving the livelihood of silk farmers and weavers.