Agriculture Entrepreneurship Promotion Scheme

The Odisha government has introduced the Agriculture Entrepreneurship Promotion Scheme to support and empower agricultural entrepreneurs in rural areas across the state. This forward-thinking initiative was launched by the State Chief Minister during the 'Make in Odisha Conclave 2018'. In this article, we explore the scheme in detail, examining its objectives, vision, features, and more.

Objectives of the Scheme

The primary goals of the Agriculture Entrepreneurship Promotion Scheme include:

• Fostering the development of agricultural entrepreneurship
• Inspiring and supporting agricultural entrepreneurs
• Promoting self-employment opportunities
• Creating new job opportunities
• Boosting Odisha's economy

Vision of the Scheme

The scheme aims to energize the rural economy and create self-employment and job opportunities in Odisha's rural areas. It is planned to be fully implemented within three years of its announcement, providing training to all rural entrepreneurs. The scheme benefits 1,000 trained entrepreneurs, helping them to leverage their skills to improve agricultural practices.

Features of Agriculture Entrepreneurship Promotion Scheme

Key features of this impactful scheme include:

• Revitalizing the agricultural economy by encouraging entrepreneurial activities in agriculture.
• Each agricultural entrepreneur will collaborate with 150 farmers across three farms, offering solutions to small and marginal farmers.
• The State Government has allocated Rs. 18 Crores for its implementation.
• Provision of quality inputs and technology-based agricultural services to farmers.
• Establishment of enterprises to revitalize the rural economy.
• Ensuring small and medium farmers earn between Rs. 2-6 lakh per year.
• The scheme is overseen by the Agricultural Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha (APICOL).
• Monitoring systems are set up to effectively design, plan, and implement the project.
• Odisha Organic Farming Policy was announced to enhance organic farming.
• The scheme was declared during the Agri-Business Management session at the Make in Odisha Conclave 2018.
• Agriculture and Farmers' Empowerment Department and NABARD have signed an MoU for doorstep services.
• An additional MoU has been signed with the Indian Institute of Millets Research and National Seed Corporation for seed production in the State.

Benefits of Agriculture Entrepreneurship Promotion Scheme

Among the benefits of the scheme are:

• Modern farm equipment and agricultural services delivered to state farmers at their doorstep via farming entrepreneurs.
• Priority for women entrepreneurs in receiving scheme benefits.
• Reduction in costs, better production, and increased yields for farmers.
• Increased revenue for participating farmers.
• Support for approximately 1,000 rural agricultural entrepreneurs in the State.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for aspiring beneficiaries include:

• The applicant must be a resident of Odisha.
• The applicant should be between 18-45 years of age.
• The applicant must own at least one acre of land with a 2000 square feet constructed area.

Documents Required

Applicants need to provide the following documents:

• Residential certificate
• Aadhaar Card
• Address Proof
• Land Records
• Voter ID

Application Procedure

To apply for this scheme, follow these steps:

Candidates should visit the nearest service centre.

Acquire the application form by paying the necessary fee.

Complete the application form with the required details.

Attach all necessary documents and submit the completed application form.

For those interested in understanding the costs involved and the necessary steps for amending documents related to agricultural enterprises, such as the Memorandum of Association, you can explore relevant guidelines and financial considerations here for fees and here for pricing. Additional information on the Memorandum of Association amendments can be found here.