Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR)

Introduction 

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) is an agriculture scheme launched by the Government of India in 2007. It was designed to support agricultural growth by providing states the flexibility to plan and execute projects tailored to local needs, climatic conditions, and resource availability. The scheme’s main goal is to make farming a remunerative economic activity by strengthening farmers’ efforts, reducing risks, and encouraging agri-business entrepreneurship. RKVY-RAFTAAR promotes investment in agriculture and allied sectors such as horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and post-harvest infrastructure.

The scheme addresses challenges like low agricultural growth rates and insufficient agribusiness development by incentivizing states with grants to innovate and build rural infrastructure that benefits farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and rural entrepreneurs. With its decentralized planning approach, RKVY-RAFTAAR helps improve productivity and income for farmers across India. Application and eligibility vary by state, focusing on supporting projects that align with local priorities. Its benefits include enhanced agricultural productivity, better market access, and promotion of agri-entrepreneurship opportunities in India’s diverse farming landscape. This scheme exemplifies a strategic policy response for rejuvenating agriculture and allied sectors to secure farmer livelihoods and boost rural growth.

Overview of the Scheme

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) was launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, in 2007. It is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at holistic development of agriculture and allied sectors across states. The scheme gives states autonomy to prepare and implement projects based on local agro-climatic conditions and farmer needs, helping make farming more profitable and sustainable.

The scheme is implemented mainly through the State Departments of Agriculture and allied sectors. State Level Sanctioning Committees led by the Chief Secretary approve projects every year. Funding follows a pattern where 100% grants are given by the central government under RKVY-RAFTAAR to states. The scheme promotes investment in key areas such as pre- and post-harvest infrastructure, value addition projects, agri-entrepreneurship, innovation, capacity building, and market linkages. For example, building cold storage units or improving storage facilities to reduce post-harvest loss is supported.

Currently, RKVY-RAFTAAR is an ongoing scheme with periodic extensions, designed to strengthen farmers’ efforts, reduce their risks, and foster agri-business entrepreneurship. It covers crop cultivation, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and relevant allied sectors, making it a comprehensive support system for agriculture development across India.

Key points:

• Launched by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India
• Implemented by State Agriculture Departments with state-level project approval
• 100% central funding as grants to states under RKVY-RAFTAAR
• Coverage includes agri inputs, machinery, infrastructure, value addition, training, credit, and insurance
• Supports farmer income growth, risk mitigation, and agri-entrepreneurship
• Ongoing scheme with flexibility for state-specific planning and innovation

This overview explains the basic structure and coverage of RKVY-RAFTAAR to help understand its role in supporting India’s farmers and allied sectors.

Objectives 

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) has clear objectives that guide its purpose as a major agriculture scheme in India. Its fundamental goal is to make farming a profitable and sustainable economic activity by strengthening farmers’ efforts and reducing their risks. The scheme encourages agri-business entrepreneurship and innovation, helping farmers and agricultural startups grow income and productivity. It also aims to empower youth through skill development and promote value chain-based farming models for additional income.

Key objectives of RKVY-RAFTAAR include:

• Strengthen farmers’ efforts by creating necessary pre- and post-harvest infrastructure such as storage, processing, and market facilities.
• Provide states with autonomy and flexibility to plan and implement agriculture projects based on local needs and priorities.
• Promote value addition linked production systems that raise farmer income and enhance productivity.
• Reduce risks faced by farmers by encouraging activities like integrated farming, mushroom cultivation, floriculture, and beekeeping for diversified income.
• Support national agricultural priorities through coordinated sub-schemes and initiatives.
• Empower youth through training, innovative agribusiness models, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
• Facilitate access to modern technology, credit, and insurance to improve overall agricultural resilience.

These objectives together ensure that RKVY-RAFTAAR supports sustained growth and modernization of agriculture and allied sectors across India, making it a comprehensive scheme for farmer welfare and rural development.

Key Features / Benefits 

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) offers a wide range of benefits designed to support farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and allied sectors across India. This section highlights the key features and benefits of the scheme in clear terms.

Financial Assistance Support

Provides subsidized grants, loans, and equity funding to eligible startups and agri-businesses for project development, buying equipment, and upgrading infrastructure. (Example: An agri-startup can get funding to set up a cold storage unit.)

Technology and Innovation Promotion

Encourages use of modern agricultural technologies and innovations by funding research, new practices, and tech adoption to improve productivity and sustainability.

Infrastructure Development Aid

Supports creating essential agri-infrastructure like warehouses, processing units, cold storage, and market facilities that reduce post-harvest losses and improve farmer income.

Market Linkage Facilitation

Helps farmers and businesses access wider markets through better supply chains and marketing support, increasing sales opportunities.

Skill Development and Mentorship

Offers training and business mentorship programs to empower entrepreneurs and farmers with leadership, management, and technical skills.

Focus on Youth and Women

Specifically promotes participation of youth and women in agriculture by providing targeted assistance and opportunities for entrepreneurial growth.

Flexible State-level Planning

Gives states the authority to plan and implement projects suited to their local agro-climatic and socio-economic conditions, encouraging innovation.

Risk Mitigation through Diversification

Supports additional income sources like integrated farming, mushroom cultivation, beekeeping, and floriculture to reduce farmers’ risks.

Promote Sustainable Agricultural Growth

Encourages sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices to improve long-term productivity and environmental health.

Support for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)

Includes assistance for FPOs to strengthen farmer collectives and improve access to inputs, credit, and technology.

The benefits of RKVY-RAFTAAR reflect its aim to create a supportive ecosystem for agriculture that combines technology, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and market access, ultimately improving livelihoods and rural development in India.

Eligibility Criteria 

The eligibility for Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) varies by beneficiary type to ensure the right target groups benefit. Below is a clear overview of who can apply, along with the documents required:

Farmers: Both individual and landholding farmers are eligible. They must hold land records verifying ownership and be residents of the applying state. Age criteria usually apply as per state norms and a valid identification like Aadhaar card is necessary. This ensures genuine participation by active farmers.

Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Registered SHGs actively functioning with bank linkage qualify for assistance. Registration proof and bank accounts linked for financial transactions are mandatory to maintain transparency and accountability.

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs): FPOs registered under the Producer Companies Act or similar laws with a minimum prescribed number of member farmers (often over 10) and active operations are eligible. They need to provide official registration certificates and demonstrate operational status.

Entrepreneurs/Startups/MSMEs: Agricultural startups and enterprises registered under relevant laws, including UDYAM or GST registration, qualify. This ensures formal recognition and eligibility to receive grants or loans under the scheme.

Special Categories: The scheme offers special provisions and additional support for women, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and beneficiaries from North Eastern or Hilly regions, as recognized officially, to encourage inclusive participation.

Not Eligible: Entities or projects receiving duplicate benefits under other government schemes or purely academic research projects are generally excluded to avoid overlap.

Mandatory Documents: Applicants generally need Aadhaar card, land ownership records (for farmers), bank passbooks, registration certificates (for SHGs, FPOs, startups), detailed project proposals (DPRs), and quotations for proposed expenditures. These documents verify eligibility and help proper assessment.

Application Process

Where to Apply

Applicants can apply online through the official RKVY portal of the Department of Agriculture or the specific state agriculture department’s portal. Some states also accept applications at district/block agriculture offices or Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).

Registration/Login

Create an account or log in on the official portal ( rkvy.da.gov.in). Provide basic details like name, mobile number, and email for verification.

Filling the Application Form

Complete the online application form including sections for beneficiary details (name, contact info), land and farm details (size, location, ownership proof), project/component selection (choose the agriculture/allied sector activity or equipment), and bank details (for receiving funds via direct benefit transfer).

Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of mandatory documents such as Aadhaar card, land ownership records, bank passbook, registration certificates (for SHGs/FPOs/startups), project proposal or Detailed Project Report (DPR), and quotations for equipment or services.

Fee Payment (if any)

Usually, there is no application fee. Confirm if any fee applies as per state rules.

Acknowledgment

After submission, applicants receive an acknowledgment or application ID. This should be saved for reference and tracking.

Verification and Inspection

Submitted applications may be verified by officials through field inspection or document scrutiny to ensure eligibility and authenticity.

Approval and Fund Release

Upon approval by the state-level committee, funds are released as per milestone achievements via direct benefit transfer (DBT) to the applicant’s bank account or through reimbursement.

Offline Application Option

Applicants can also visit their nearest agriculture office, block office, or KVK to seek guidance or submit physical forms if online submission is not feasible.

Helpline and Support

For queries, contact the state agriculture department’s helpline or the central ministry:

• Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Phone – 011-23012307 (example)
• State Agriculture Office (local numbers vary)
• Email support is often available on respective state official websites.

Tips to Avoid Mistakes:

• Ensure all personal and bank details match official documents to avoid rejection.
• Upload clear scanned copies of required documents only.
• Check deadlines carefully and submit well before the last date.
• Double-check project proposal details and cost quotations for accuracy.

Challenges or Limitations 

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) faces a few common challenges and limitations during implementation. Understanding these challenges helps beneficiaries and officials improve scheme delivery and outcomes.

Challenge: Delays in Application Verification

Verification of documents and field inspections can take time, slowing down approvals and fund release.

What to do: Keep land records, identity proofs, and project documents accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays during checks.

Challenge: Limited Budget Headroom for Some States

Some states struggle to fully utilize allocated funds due to capacity or planning gaps.

What to do: States should plan projects carefully and use the scheme flexibly in line with local priorities and existing resources.

Challenge: Seasonal Windows Affect Project Timelines

Agricultural activities are often seasonal, which may cause delays in project execution or fund utilization.

What to do: Plan and submit applications well ahead of the planting/harvest season to match farming cycles.

Challenge: Document Mismatch or Incomplete Applications

Errors in submitted documents or incomplete forms lead to rejections or longer processing times.

What to do: Review all documents and application details carefully before submission; seek help if unsure.

Challenge: Awareness Gaps Among Farmers and Entrepreneurs

Many potential beneficiaries are unaware of scheme benefits or how to apply.

What to do: Take advantage of government outreach programs, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), or agriculture offices for guidance.

Challenge: Overlap with Other Schemes

Some projects or beneficiaries may receive duplicate benefits from multiple schemes, complicating implementation.

What to do: Ensure proper coordination between departments and clarity about scheme coverage before applying.

Challenge: Monitoring and Evaluation Bottlenecks

Effective ongoing monitoring of projects can be difficult due to resource constraints.

What to do: Engage local extension workers and use technology for timely reporting to improve oversight.

By being aware of these challenges, applicants and implementing agencies of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) can take practical steps to maximize the scheme’s benefits and smoothen the process for all involved.

Government Support & Future Outlook 

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) is designed to connect closely with other major agricultural missions to create a unified support system for farmers and allied sectors. This convergence enhances resource use efficiency and provides a comprehensive growth framework. The scheme aligns with initiatives like PM-KISAN (direct income support), PMFBY (crop insurance), PMFME (food processing), ATMA (extension services), NFSM (food security), and custom hiring centers for mechanization.

By linking these schemes, farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) can benefit on multiple fronts. For example, an FPO using RKVY-RAFTAAR funds to establish cold storage can simultaneously access PMFBY for crop insurance and PMFME for food processing subsidies, thus reducing losses and increasing income through value addition.

Since its revamp in recent years – including updates in 2024 – the scheme’s future plans emphasize further technology integration, agripreneurship promotion, and tailored state-level planning. The government continues to allocate resources to expand these convergences and strengthen the overall agri-ecosystem.

Key points on linkage and future outlook include:

• RKVY-RAFTAAR complements schemes like PM-KISAN, PMFBY, NFSM, and ATMA for holistic farmer support.
• It supports integrated projects across crop cultivation, animal husbandry, horticulture, and fisheries with allied schemes.
• Cross-scheme benefits help farmers manage risks, increase productivity, and improve market access.
• Periodic revamps, including the 2024 update, continue to improve scheme design and funding allocations.
• Enhanced focus on agri-startups and innovation fosters sustainable agricultural growth and rural employment.

Conclusion 

The Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) is a vital scheme aimed at making agriculture more profitable and sustainable for farmers, farmer groups, and agri-entrepreneurs. It supports creation of infrastructure, promotes technology and innovation, and encourages entrepreneurship in the farming sector. Those most likely to benefit include small and marginal farmers, Self-Help Groups, Farmer Producer Organizations, and startups involved in agriculture and allied activities.

If considering applying, checking eligibility and preparing necessary documents early on the official RKVY portal or respective state agriculture websites will save time and effort. Consulting local agriculture offices or Krishi Vigyan Kendras can provide practical guidance and step-by-step help in the application process.

Readers are reminded to always verify the latest scheme details, updates, and deadlines through the official portal or helpline numbers to ensure smooth access to benefits under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR).

Explore detailed resources on this scheme and the full suite of programmes at ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE. For one-on-one assistance, call us at +91 8484002620.