Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture

Introduction 

Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture in India aim to empower women farmers by enhancing their participation, skills, and income in the agricultural sector. Recognizing the critical role women play in farming, the Government of India launched these schemes to address the challenges faced by women, such as limited access to resources, training, and financial support. Among the prominent initiatives is the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), launched in 2011 under the Ministry of Rural Development as a subcomponent of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). This program focuses on building skills, increasing productivity, and creating sustainable livelihoods for rural women farmers through training, financial aid, and support. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare mandates that at least 30% of funds under various agricultural schemes are allocated to women farmers to ensure inclusive growth. These schemes broadly target women farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and women entrepreneurs involved in agriculture. The intent is to provide technical training, financial incentives, and better access to modern agricultural practices, thus promoting gender equality and empowering women in agriculture across India. Benefits, eligibility, and application details vary by scheme and state, making these agriculture schemes an essential step toward inclusive rural development and food security.

Overview of the Scheme

Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture in India are primarily launched by the Ministry of Rural Development under the centrally sponsored Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). A key component within this mission is the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), aimed specifically at empowering women farmers. The schemes are implemented through State Rural Livelihood Missions (SRLMs) and various agriculture and rural development departments at the state level. These implementing agencies work closely with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and local bodies to deliver benefits.

The funding pattern for DAY-NRLM, which includes MKSP, typically follows a Central: State cost-sharing ratio of 60:40. For North Eastern states and Himalayan regions, the ratio is 90:10, and Union Territories receive 100% central funding. For example, the MKSP funding is demand-driven with no fixed state allocation but supports women farmers by providing training, credit access, and livelihood opportunities.

Coverage under these schemes is broad and includes inputs like seeds and machinery, capacity building and training, value addition, credit support with interest subvention, and insurance benefits. The programs are ongoing and have been revamped since their launch in 2011 to keep pace with emerging needs, ensuring sustained support for women in agriculture across India.

Overview of Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture:

• Launching Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India
• Implementing Agencies: SRLMs, Department of Agriculture, State rural departments
• Funding Pattern: Centrally Sponsored Scheme with 60:40 Central-State share (90:10 in NE states), 100% for UTs
• Coverage: Inputs, machinery, training, credit (with interest subvention), insurance, value addition
• Status: Ongoing, demand-driven, part of DAY-NRLM since 2011

Objectives 

The purpose of Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture is to recognize the vital role women play in farming and ensure they have equal access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making. These schemes are not just about financial support, but about creating long-term empowerment through skills, training, and sustainable livelihood options. The official goals highlight both economic and social empowerment so that women farmers can become independent contributors to rural development and food security.

Key objectives include:

• Increase participation of women in agriculture by giving them equal access to schemes, resources, and services.
• Enhance skills and knowledge of women farmers through training, capacity building, and exposure to modern farming practices.
• Support sustainable livelihoods for rural women by promoting agro-based activities, value addition, and income-generating opportunities.
• Facilitate access to credit and financial services for women farmers, SHGs, and women-led Farmer Producer Organizations, including interest subvention.
• Provide agricultural inputs and tools such as seeds, machinery, and equipment to reduce drudgery and improve productivity.
• Promote social and economic empowerment by ensuring women’s active role in decision-making within households, communities, and agricultural enterprises.
• Encourage inclusive growth by mandating at least 30% allocation of funds from agricultural schemes to women farmers.
• Build resilience and security for women in farming through crop insurance, risk management, and safety-net measures.

Altogether, these objectives show that Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture are not limited to short-term benefits. They are designed to create a strong foundation where women farmers are better equipped, financially stable, and socially recognized as key drivers of India’s agricultural growth.

Key Features / Benefits 

The Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture are designed to remove barriers that rural women face in farming and allied activities. They combine financial aid, training, and institutional support to help women farmers build skills, adopt modern practices, and earn sustainable incomes. The benefits are practical, covering everything from seeds and equipment to credit and insurance. Below is a breakdown of the major features and advantages.

• Reserved share of funds
  At least 30% of funds from all centrally sponsored agriculture schemes are reserved for women farmers. This ensures women get equal access to government assistance without being sidelined.
• Support for Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
  Women-led SHGs receive financial aid and training to strengthen collective farming, food processing, and small-scale enterprises. (Example: A women’s SHG running a dairy unit can apply for input support and marketing assistance.)
• Subsidy on farm equipment and tools
  Women farmers can access subsidies on machinery and equipment that reduce manual labor. (Example: A woman farmer purchasing a seed drill can receive a percentage of the cost covered through scheme benefits.)
• Training and capacity building
  Regular training sessions help women adopt improved farming techniques, value addition, and organic/natural farming practices. These skill-building programs are tailored for easy understanding at the local level.
• Credit access with interest subvention
  Women farmers and SHGs can get loans at lower interest rates under special credit-linked programs. (Example: A group of women taking credit for setting up a small food-processing unit can benefit from interest subvention.)
• Crop insurance and risk coverage
  Schemes provide crop insurance benefits so that women farmers are protected against natural disasters and market risks. This reduces vulnerability and ensures stability in their livelihoods.
• Livelihood diversification support
  Beyond crop cultivation, women are encouraged to take up allied activities like poultry, fisheries, beekeeping, or food processing with financial and technical assistance.
• Special funding pattern for NE and Himalayan states
  In North-Eastern and Himalayan regions, the funding share is 90:10 (Central: State), which means women farmers here get more support compared to other regions. For Union Territories, 100% funding comes from the Centre.
• Value addition and processing support
  Assistance is provided for post-harvest management like grading, packaging, and small-scale processing units to help women earn higher profits. (Example: A women’s group growing spices can get help in setting up a packaging unit to increase earnings.)
• Encouragement for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
  Women-led FPOs are given special support for collective marketing, bulk input purchase, and better access to markets.
• Reduced drudgery in farming
  By providing improved equipment, inputs, and training, these schemes aim to reduce the heavy physical workload women farmers often face, making agriculture more manageable and productive.
• Demand-driven and ongoing support
  The schemes are flexible and adjusted to local needs. States can propose projects under MKSP and get support as per demand, ensuring benefits remain relevant and continuous.

Together, these features show that Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture are not just policy on paper but real opportunities for women farmers to improve income, reduce risk, and gain recognition as equal contributors to India’s agricultural growth.

Eligibility Criteria 

The eligibility criteria for Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture are designed to ensure that benefits reach genuine women farmers, organized groups, and women-led institutions engaged in agriculture and allied activities. The requirements vary slightly depending on whether the applicant is an individual farmer, a collective group, or an enterprise. Below is a structured breakdown of who can apply and what documents are generally needed.

1. Individual Women Farmers

• Must be an Indian resident and actively engaged in farming or allied activities.
• Should have valid landholding records or tenancy proof, where applicable. This helps confirm that the applicant is a practicing farmer.
• Required age: Usually 18 years and above, ensuring the applicant is legally an adult.
• Key documents: Aadhaar card (for identity), land records or cultivation proof, bank passbook for direct benefit transfer (DBT).

2. Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

• Should be women-led SHGs formally registered under State Rural Livelihood Missions (SRLMs) or similar bodies.
• Must be active and have regular savings and credit activity.
• Bank linkage is essential for receiving funds or subsidies.
• Key documents: SHG registration certificate, bank account details, resolution copy signed by members.

3. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)

• Women-led FPOs must be legally registered under the Companies Act as Producer Companies, or under cooperative laws.
• Minimum membership criteria apply (often 10–20 farmers, depending on state norms).
• Should be engaged in active operations like collective farming, input procurement, or marketing.
• Key documents: Certificate of incorporation, membership list, bank details, and project reports if applying for specific schemes.

4. Women Entrepreneurs / Startups / MSMEs in Agriculture

• Women-owned enterprises in agro-processing, value addition, or input supply can apply under relevant scheme components.
• Registration under UDYAM (for MSMEs) or GST may be required depending on business activity.
• Key documents: UDYAM registration, GST certificate, bank details, and detailed project report (if seeking grant/credit-linked support).

5. Special Categories

• Women from SC/ST communities, North-Eastern states, and hilly regions often receive priority or higher subsidy percentages.
• Proof of category (such as caste certificate or residence proof) may be required.
• This ensures inclusiveness and targeted support for disadvantaged groups.

6. Not Eligible

• Duplicate beneficiaries already availing the same subsidy under another program are not eligible.
• Activities outside agriculture or allied sectors (like purely commercial or non-farming businesses) do not qualify.

7. Mandatory Documents (commonly required)

• Aadhaar card for identity verification.
• Land records, lease agreement, or cultivation certificate for farmers.
• Bank passbook/cancelled cheque for DBT transfer.
• Registration certificates for SHGs, FPOs, or enterprises.
• Detailed Project Report (DPR) and vendor quotations when applying for machinery or processing units.

Altogether, the eligibility criteria for Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture are designed to keep the process transparent and fair. They prioritize women who are genuinely engaged in farming or allied enterprises, while making sure organized groups like SHGs and FPOs have the structure and capacity to use benefits effectively. With clear documentation, the application process becomes smoother and ensures that assistance reaches the right hands.

Application Process

1. Identify the responsible implementing agency or portal
   • For MKSP, applications are generally handled through the MKSP Portal (https://mksp.gov.in/portal)
   • State Rural Livelihood Missions (SRLMs) or the Agriculture / Rural Development Department play an important role in receiving proposals and applications
   • In some states, offline offices (block/cluster offices, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, ATMA offices) act as the first contact point.
2. Registration / Login on the portal / agency system
   • Visit the MKSP portal (or the relevant state-level MIS portal under SRLM) and register as a new user (beneficiary / agency) with basic details (name, mobile, email)
   • After registration, log in using credentials and access the “Apply / Project Submission” section.
3. Fill in the application form / project proposal
   The application / proposal typically has these sections:
   • Beneficiary / Applicant details: name, address, contact, Aadhaar, etc.
   • Land / farm / activity details: area of land, cropping pattern, allied activities, input needs.
   • Scheme component / project selection: e.g. sustainable agriculture, value addition, allied activities, tool / machinery support.
   • Bank / financial information: bank account number, IFSC, branch, passbook details.
   • Project cost / estimates: budget break-up, vendor quotations, cost of inputs / machinery, DPR (Detailed Project Report) if required.
4. Upload / submit documents
   Common documents required (depending on component) include:
   • Aadhaar card
   • Land records / lease / cultivation proof
   • Bank passbook / cancelled cheque
   • Registration certificates (for SHGs, FPOs, enterprises)
   • Project report (DPR) and quotations from vendors
   • Membership list, resolution, constitution documents (for SHG / FPO)
   • Caste certificate / residence proof (if applying under special category)
5. Pay any application fee (if applicable)
   • In most cases, there is no application fee for schemes under MKSP / DAY-NRLM as they are government welfare schemes.
   • Always check your state’s specific guidelines in case a minimal administrative charge is prescribed.
6. Receive acknowledgment / Application ID
   • After successfully submitting the application online, you will receive an acknowledgment with a unique Application ID / Reference number.
   • Save this (print or screenshot) for future tracking and queries.
7. Verification & Field inspection
   • The implementing agency (SRLM / state department) may carry out physical verification of the land, beneficiary identity, and project site.
   • They may cross-check submitted documents and assess the feasibility of the proposed plan.
8. Application review and approval
   • A technical / screening committee reviews the proposals against scheme guidelines, fund norms, and viability.
   • Within a stipulated timeline (varies by state), the agency issues formal approval or communicates modifications.
9. Release of assistance / subsidy / grant
   • On approval, financial support is generally released via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary’s bank account.
   • For reimbursement components, the applicant may first incur the cost, submit proof, and then receive subsidy.
   • Monitoring of project implementation may be required by the agency.
10. Post-approval monitoring / reporting
    • Beneficiaries may need to submit progress reports, photographs, or audited statements.
    • Agencies may also carry out periodic inspections to ensure funds are used as intended.
11. Offline / Alternate application route (if provided)
    • If the state does not allow full online submission, applicants can approach the local SRLM office, block / cluster office, or Krishi Vigyan Kendra / ATMA office.
    • Request the physical application form, fill it, attach documents, submit at the office, and obtain acknowledgment.
    • The local staff often helps aspirants verify documents and guide them through portal uploading.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

• Always ensure name spelling / Aadhaar / bank account details match across documents – mismatch leads to rejection.
• Upload clear and readable documents (scanned PDF / JPG) – avoid blurred or incomplete pages.
• Don’t miss deadlines – check the portal or state SRLM announcements.
• Double-check that all mandatory sections (cost, bank info, activity choice) are filled before final submission.
• Keep a backup of your application ID / acknowledgment and submit offline copies if requested.

Challenges or Limitations 

Even though Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture have helped many farmers, they also come with a few practical challenges. Most of these are linked to paperwork, timelines, or coordination between agencies. Knowing the limitations in advance can save time and reduce frustration. Below are the common issues and simple ways to handle them.

• Document mismatch during verification → Keep records updated
  Many applications get delayed because names on Aadhaar, land records, and bank passbooks don’t match. Always make sure all documents have the same spelling and details before applying.
• Delays due to field inspections → Plan early in the season
  Physical verification by local officials can take time, especially during busy farming months. Submitting your form early gives enough buffer so assistance reaches you when needed.
• Limited budget allocation → Apply as soon as the window opens
  Since funds are capped each year, not all eligible applications may get approved at once. Track official announcements and apply promptly to improve your chances.
• Complex application forms → Seek help from local offices
  The online forms may feel complicated, especially for SHGs or FPOs. Visit the nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra, ATMA office, or SRLM office where staff can guide you step by step.
• Seasonal application windows → Don’t miss deadlines
  Some components (like crop-based support) only accept applications before a sowing season. Keep an eye on official notices and mark deadlines to avoid missing your chance.
• Technology barriers → Use offline routes if needed
  Not all women farmers have internet access or digital literacy. In such cases, use the offline submission route at block offices or ask SHG leaders for support.
• Reimbursement-based support → Keep all bills safe
  For schemes that reimburse after purchase, missing bills or quotations can lead to rejection. Always keep vendor invoices, receipts, and quotations properly filed.
• Multiple scheme overlaps → Avoid duplicate claims
  Submitting the same component under two different schemes can disqualify you. Check carefully and apply only under the scheme that best fits your need.

These challenges don’t mean the schemes are out of reach. With careful preparation – keeping documents clean, applying on time, and taking help when needed – women farmers, SHGs, and FPOs can make the most of the benefits offered.

Government Support & Future Outlook 

Women-Focused Schemes, particularly MKSP, are built with convergence in mind – the idea is to combine strengths from multiple programs so women farmers and FPOs get more value, not isolated benefits. In the official MKSP guidelines, states are expected to include a “well defined convergence strategy” at central, state, district, and block levels.

Some of the official or announced linkages include:

• With PMFME / PMKSY / AIF
  A convergence portal was launched between the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME), and PM Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY).
  For women entrepreneurs in agro-processing or value addition, this means they might use MKSP support for capacity building, and tap into PMFME / AIF for infrastructure/credit subsidy so that one project weaves benefits from multiple schemes.
  
  
• With other agri programs and extension systems
  In meetings convened by ICAR and gender/agri institutions, the emphasis has been on forming women FPOs and linking them with market, extension, and allied scheme networks.
  Also, the MKSP guidelines themselves expect coordination with schemes like ATMA, state agriculture missions, etc., so the technical support, training, and inputs can align.

Practical Example:
Suppose a women’s FPO wants to start a small spice-processing unit. Under Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture they might get training in standard processing, help forming the FPO, and seed support. Then, through convergence, they can apply under PMFME for credit-linked subsidy for the processing unit, and under AIF for storage or cold chain infrastructure. The combination reduces the financial burden on the FPO and boosts its viability.

Looking ahead:

• The MKSP guidelines stress that convergence must be part of the plan, meaning future funding proposals should clearly link with allied schemes.
• The government is pushing more integrated portals and systems to ensure beneficiaries can access multiple benefits through a unified interface (for example, the convergence portal launched in 2022 for AIF/PMFME/PMKSY).
• As more women FPOs form and mature, the expectation is that these linkages will grow stronger, enabling economies of scale, better market access, and reduced dependency on single-scheme funding.

In sum, the future of Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture isn’t in isolation. Its strength lies in building bridges with other missions. That way, women farmers and their collectives can access multiple supports in a coherent package – solving not just one constraint, but several at once.

Conclusion 

Women-Focused Schemes in Agriculture play a vital role in recognizing and supporting the contribution of women farmers, helping them gain access to training, credit, infrastructure, and collective platforms like FPOs. The benefits are most visible for smallholders, self-help groups, and rural women entrepreneurs who often lack equal opportunities in mainstream agriculture. To make the most of these schemes, an important first step is to check eligibility and apply through the official MKSP/NRLM portal, or connect with the local agriculture office for guidance on documents and processes. These schemes not only improve livelihoods but also strengthen community resilience by empowering women at the grassroots. Readers should always verify the latest updates, eligibility rules, and benefits on the official portal or helpline before applying.
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.