National Agricultural Development Scheme (RKVY), Benefits & Application Details

India is primarily an agrarian nation where the livelihood of a majority of the population depends on agriculture. To foster the development of Indian agriculture, several schemes have been initiated, among which a prominent one is the "National Agricultural Development Scheme" (RKVY). Launched in 2007, its objective is to ensure comprehensive development in agriculture and related sectors. In this article, we delve into various aspects of the RKVY scheme.

Introduction to RKVY:

The Central Government initiated the National Agricultural Development Scheme in 2007 to promote holistic development in agriculture and related sectors. Under this scheme, states and Union Territories can choose development activities tailored to their agricultural needs. It was implemented during the 11th and 12th Five-Year Plans and revised in 2015-16 to adjust the funding system between the Center and the states to a ratio of 60:40 (90:10 for northeastern and Himalayan states). Funding for centrally administered areas is fully provided by the Center.

Objectives of the National Agricultural Development Scheme:

The primary goal of the RKVY is to enhance agricultural and allied sector development. It aims to promote agricultural entrepreneurship and build essential agricultural infrastructure to ensure quality inputs, storage, market access, and facilities. The scheme is designed to be responsive to the needs of farmers, encouraging income growth and contributing towards improving their economic status.

Duration and Financial Allocation of the Scheme:

The Indian Government has allocated Rs. 15,722 crores for the RKVY scheme for a period of three years, from 2017-18 to 2019-20. It has been extended under the name "National Agricultural Development Scheme—Accelerated Agricultural and Allied Sector Rejuvenation" (RKVY-RAFTAAR). The objective is to strengthen agricultural initiatives, reduce risks, and enhance entrepreneurial activities in the agricultural business. The RKVY-RAFTAAR emphasizes significant attention to pre- and post-harvest infrastructure.

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Components of the National Agricultural Development Scheme:

1. Regular RKVY-RAFTAAR (Infrastructure/Assets): States can use funds to establish 70% expenditure on basic infrastructure before crop harvesting and 30% for infrastructure after harvesting.
2. Value-Added Production Projects: Under this component, states can utilize 30% of the funds from the 70% share for state value-added agricultural business projects to increase farmers' incomes.
3. Regular RKVY-RAFTAAR Flexible Funds: States can use 20% of the state funds for new activities in agriculture and related sectors under this component.

Eligibility and Allocation:

1. All states in India are eligible for benefits under this scheme.
2. Under this scheme, the central government will bear 60% of the expenses, and the state government will bear 40%.
3. For northeastern and hilly states, the central government will bear 90% of the expenses, and the state government will bear 10%.
4. For centrally administered territories, the entire amount (100%) will be funded by the central government.

Documents Required for the State Agricultural Development Scheme:

1. Aadhaar Card: Mandatory as proof of identification.
2. Residence Proof: Residence certificate as proof of permanent address.
3. Income Proof: An income certificate to verify income sources and amounts.
4. Age proof: a birth certificate or other valid documents.
5. Passport-Size Photograph: Recent passport-sized photograph.
6. Mobile Number: Valid contact mobile number.
7. Email ID: Email ID for digital communication.

 Application Process for the National Agricultural Development Scheme:

1. Visit the official website of the National Agricultural Development Scheme (https://rkvy.nic.in/).
2. The homepage will open.
3. Click on the "Apply Now" option.
4. The application form will appear on your screen.
5. Fill in all the required information in the application form.
6. Upload all the necessary documents.
7. Finally, click on the "Submit" option.

Benefits of the National Agricultural Development Scheme for Farmers: Farmers benefit significantly from the National Agricultural Development Scheme. The scheme facilitates the construction of essential agricultural infrastructure, ensuring farmers access to high-quality inputs, storage facilities, and market access. It incentivizes income growth for farmers and contributes to improving their economic status.

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