Most farmers in India don’t know much about starting and growing a business. They often need help from others to learn how to exactly run a business. This is exactly what the agri-clinics and agri-business centres scheme (ACABC loan subsidy) does. They provide expert services and advice on cropping patterns, and technology dissemination to farmers to help them expand and grow their businesses. Let’s learn about this central government scheme for farmers.

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What Is the Agri-Clinics And Agri-Business Centres Scheme (ACABC)?

The ACABC scheme was launched in 2002 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, with the National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (NABARD) acting as a subsidy channelising agency for this govt scheme.

It is a welfare scheme aimed at agricultural development by providing subsidies and financial extensions to farmers. Agri clinics and agri-business centres schemes also create self-employment opportunities for unemployed agricultural graduates, agricultural diploma holders, intermediate in agriculture, and biological science graduates with PG in agri-related courses.

The government is also providing services for start-up training to graduates in agriculture, or any subject related to it. People who have completed their training can also apply for special start-up loans for ventures.

Agri-clinics provide expert advice and services to farmers to enhance their productivity of crops and also increase their income. They provide help in the following areas.

• Soil health

• Cropping patterns

• Plant protection

• Crop insurance

• Clinical services for animals, feed and fodder management

• Post-harvest technology

• Prices of various crops in the market

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What Are The Objectives Of Agri Clinics And Agri-Business Centres Scheme (ACABC)?

The government mainly aims to provide financial assistance and give advice to farmers to better their livelihood. Let’s take a look at the other objectives under the agri-clinics and agri-business centres scheme.

• Provide extension and other services to farmers for either free or on a payment basis, depending on the business model, local needs, and farmers' affordability.

• Support agricultural development.

• Create self-employment opportunities for unemployed agricultural graduates, agricultural diploma holders, intermediates in agriculture, and biological science graduates with PG in agri-related courses.

Eligibility Criteria For The Agri Clinics And Agri-Business Centres Scheme

People who meet the following eligibility criteria can apply for the agri-clinics and agri-business centres scheme (ACABC loan subsidy). The criteria include.

• People between the ages of 18 and 60 years.

• Graduates in agriculture and related subjects from recognized universities like SAUs, Central Agricultural Universities, and ICAR/UGC-recognized universities.

• Degrees from other agencies approved by the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Government of India, with State Government recommendation.

• Any Diploma or Post-graduate Diploma courses with over 60% course content in agriculture and related subjects, after a B.Sc. in Biological Sciences.

• Degree courses with over 60% of the course content being agriculture and related subjects that are recognised by UGC.

• Agriculture-related courses at the intermediate level with at least 55% marks.

• Biological Science graduates with post-graduation in agriculture and related subjects.

• Diplomas from other agencies approved by the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Government of India, with State Government recommendation.

• Diploma holders with at least 50% marks or Post Graduate Diploma holders in agriculture and related subjects from State Agricultural Universities, State Agriculture and Allied Departments, or State Department of Technical Education.

Retired employees getting pension benefits can also undergo training and start self-financed projects under the agri clinics and agri-business centres scheme but are not eligible for receiving subsidies.

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Required Documents Needed To Apply For The ACABC Scheme

The following documents have to be submitted by the applicant during the application process.

• Aadhaar card

• Email ID

• Documents of latest educational qualification

• Bank account details

• Applicant’s photos

Agri Clinic And Agri-Business Online Registration Process

People who have met the eligibility criteria and wish to apply for the agri clinics and agri-business centres scheme, can follow the following steps.

1. Visit the official ACABC website.

2. Fill out the registration form with the required details.

3. Upload the necessary documents in the format and size mentioned.

4. Submit the application form.

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Conclusion

Overall, the agri clinics and agri-business centres scheme helps farmers immensely. Farmers usually cannot enhance their livelihood because of a lack of knowledge in farming and financial constraints to expand or start their businesses, but with the help of the ACABC scheme, farmers can now get expert advice and financial aid from the government to run their businesses and farms.

For any queries or grievances regarding the ACABC scheme, call 18004251556 or mail acabc-manage@manage.gov.in.

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