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Introduction:

The agriculture sector in India is one of the major sources of livelihood for millions of people. However, due to various factors such as lack of education, limited access to resources, and traditional farming practices, many farmers struggle to make ends meet. The Agri Clinic and Agri-Business Center (ACABC) scheme, initiated by the Government of India, aims to address these issues by providing training and support to aspiring entrepreneurs in agriculture. SRS Institute of Agriculture and Technology is one of the institutions that is actively promoting this scheme, and in this blog, we will look at how the ACABC scheme is empowering entrepreneurs in agriculture at SRS Institute.

What is the ACABC Scheme?

The ACABC scheme is a government initiative that provides training and support to individuals who wish to start their own businesses in agriculture and related fields. The scheme is open to science graduates who have studied subjects such as agriculture, horticulture, chemistry, botany, zoology, engineering, and fishery. The training program is free of cost and includes a two-month course on agriculture and livestock-related businesses. Upon completion of the program, the participants can apply for a bank loan of up to Rs. 1 crore to start their own business.

The Purpose of the Scheme

The ACABC scheme aims to achieve two main objectives: agricultural learning and creating entrepreneurship. The program is designed to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge and skills to start their own business in agriculture. It also aims to encourage the development of sustainable farming practices and promote the use of innovative technologies in agriculture. By creating a pool of trained professionals, the scheme aims to boost employment opportunities in the agricultural sector and contribute to the country's overall economic growth.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the ACABC scheme, the candidate must be between 18 and 60 years of age and possess a science degree or diploma in agriculture, engineering, or allied subjects. The candidate must have scored a minimum of 55% marks in their qualifying exam. The program is also open to candidates who have completed a two-year diploma in agriculture or a post-diploma in commercial horticulture. Candidates with a B.Sc. in Biological Science with a PG Diploma in Agriculture and Allied Subjects or those who have studied vocational subjects related to agriculture, veterinary, and fisheries are also eligible for the program.

Facilities and Support

The ACABC scheme offers several facilities and support to the participants. The program provides free food and accommodation to the candidates during the two-month training period. The participants are also given training materials free of cost. The program includes sessions on various aspects of agricultural businesses such as project planning, administration, and management. Participants are also taken to research and technical training centers to gain practical knowledge.

Upon completion of the training program, the participants are required to prepare a project report, which can be submitted to banks for availing loans. The government offers a subsidy of 36% to the general category and 44% to women, SCs, and STs for the loan amount.

SRS Institute's Contribution to ACABC Scheme

SRS Institute of Agriculture and Technology is actively promoting the ACABC scheme and is providing free training to eligible candidates. The institute is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, and the training is provided by experienced faculty members who have extensive knowledge in their respective fields. The institute also provides additional support and guidance to the participants in preparing their project reports and availing of bank loans.

Conclusion

The ACABC scheme is an excellent initiative by the Government of India to encourage entrepreneurship in agriculture and related fields. The scheme has the potential to create a significant impact on the lives of millions of farmers.