NABARD and Banks Champion Agri-Entrepreneurship with Subsidized Loan Schemes
Mojarla (Peddamandadi), January 8, 2025:
In an inspiring effort to bolster rural development and empower agriculture professionals, NABARD Deputy General Manager (DGM) Srikanth Jamre announced a range of financial initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship in agriculture and allied sectors. Addressing a packed gathering at the Agri Clinic and Agri Business Center event held at Mojarla Horticulture College, Jamre emphasized the transformative role of rural development in shaping India’s progress and reiterated NABARD’s commitment to fostering innovation among farmers and agriculture professionals.
The event, jointly organized by NABARD and Mojarla Horticulture College, brought together experts, bankers, and aspiring entrepreneurs under one roof to explore the immense potential in agriculture-based businesses. In his keynote speech, Jamre underscored the importance of agriculture in the country’s economy, stating, “The development of the nation is intrinsically tied to the growth of its rural communities, and farmers are at the heart of this progress.”
He outlined NABARD’s efforts to promote entrepreneurial ventures in agriculture, horticulture, and allied sectors. As part of the Agri Clinic and Agri Business Center scheme, candidates with qualifications ranging from intermediate to postgraduate levels will be trained for 45 days. The scheme enables individuals to receive project loans of up to ₹20 lakh, while groups of five can access loans up to ₹1 crore. In addition, NABARD provides a 30% subsidy for general category beneficiaries and a higher subsidy of 44% for women, Scheduled Castes (SC), and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
Opportunities in the Horticulture Sector
Dr. Pidigam Saidaiah, Principal of Mojarla Horticulture College, took the stage to highlight the emerging opportunities in the horticulture sector, particularly in the post-pandemic era. He elaborated on how ventures such as hydroponics, organic farming, honey production, value addition, mushroom cultivation, and the cultivation of medicinal and spice crops have shown significant potential for economic growth.
“Covid-19 has shifted the focus toward sustainable and health-oriented farming practices, opening up avenues for entrepreneurship in horticulture,” Saidaiah remarked. He encouraged the youth to leverage these opportunities to build successful enterprises that align with modern agricultural trends.
Banks Extend Support
Kaushal Kishore Pandey, Lead District Manager of Wanaparthy, reassured attendees that banks are fully equipped and eager to provide financial support to aspiring entrepreneurs. “We are ready to assist individuals who have the qualifications and viable business plans to make their dreams a reality,” he said.
NABARD’s Mahabubnagar Cluster District Development Managers (DDMs), Shanmukh Chari and P. Manohar Reddy, provided an in-depth explanation of NABARD’s various schemes, underscoring how these initiatives aim to equip rural entrepreneurs with the resources and training they need to thrive.
Collaborative Efforts for Rural Growth
The event saw enthusiastic participation from key stakeholders, including Wanaparthy District Officer Govinda Nayak, regional and district lead managers, branch managers, and seed industry representatives from across Wanaparthy, Nagarkurnool, Mahabubnagar, Gadwal, and Narayanpet districts. Principals of Agriculture and Fisheries Colleges, fisheries extension officers (FEOs), professors, and students were also in attendance, contributing to the vibrant exchange of ideas and insights.
This collaborative effort reflects a shared vision of empowering rural communities through innovation and entrepreneurship. By creating avenues for financial support and capacity building, NABARD and partnering banks aim to nurture a generation of self-reliant farmers and agriculture professionals, ultimately driving the growth of India’s rural economy.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to supporting agri-entrepreneurs, highlighting NABARD’s role as a key enabler in transforming rural aspirations into sustainable realities.
