Patna: To promote the processing of coarse grains in Bihar, the government has started a subsidy scheme for farmers and agriculture-related entrepreneurs. Under this, farmers, FPOs, entrepreneurs and other eligible registered organizations can avail financial assistance for setting up processing units.
Separate grant for General and SC-ST category
Under the scheme, general category applicants can get a grant of 40 percent of the project cost or a maximum of Rs 4.32 lakh. Whereas for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, there is a provision of subsidy up to 50 percent or a maximum of Rs 5.40 lakh. This assistance will be available only on the purchase of machinery. Land, electricity connection and other expenses will have to be borne by the applicant himself.
Some conditions have also been imposed to avail the benefits of the scheme. The age of the applicant must be at least 21 years. FPOs must be registered and operating for at least two years. The applicant will have to invest minimum 15 percent of his capital in the project and it is also mandatory to take bank loan.
Rules regarding machinery and units
The capacity of the processing unit has been fixed at 100 to 200 kg per hour. The machinery should be as per BIS standards and it will also be necessary to follow the rules related to FSSAI. The benefit of the grant will be available only if the machine is purchased from the seller listed on the OFMAS portal.
After approval, the subsidy will be sent to the bank account through DBT. The unit established under the scheme will have to operate for at least three years.
how to apply?
The interested applicant will have to keep ready documents like DPR, bank loan approval or consent letter, Aadhar, bank details and registration certificate if it is an institution. Application can be made through farmech.bihar.gov.in or Bihar Krishi App.