Contents
- Introduction: Empowering Farmers and Startups through the RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme
- What is RKVY-RAFTAAR?
- Who Can Apply?
- Key Features of RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme
- Benefits of RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme for Entrepreneurs
- How to Apply for the RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme
- Why Every Agri-Innovator Should Apply
- Conclusion: A Golden Chance for Agriculture Startups
Introduction: Empowering Farmers and Startups through the RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme
The RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to fuel innovation in the agriculture sector. With a clear focus on encouraging agri-startups and rural youth, this scheme provides financial support, business mentoring, and incubation facilities to transform agriculture into a profitable, modern enterprise.
If you are a young entrepreneur or a startup working in agriculture, food processing, or allied sectors—this scheme could be your launchpad to success.
What is RKVY-RAFTAAR?
RKVY stands for Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, and RAFTAAR stands for Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation. This scheme includes a special sub-component called Innovation and Agri-Entrepreneurship Development, aimed at promoting startups that bring new ideas to farming, value addition, and market linkage.
It is implemented through Agri-Business Incubators (ABIs) set up across the country by State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), ICAR institutes, and IIMs.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme is designed for:
- Aspiring agri-preneurs
- Existing startups in agriculture and allied sectors
- Innovators with scalable, sustainable agri-tech solutions
- Youth with ideas that can improve farming, reduce costs, or add value
You don’t need to be from a farming background—just a good idea and commitment can get you in!
Key Features of RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme
🟢 1. Incubation Support
Startups get handholding, mentorship, infrastructure, and expert advice to develop and scale their business model.
🟢 2. Funding Assistance
There are two levels of funding support:
- Idea Stage Funding: Up to ₹5 lakhs as a grant-in-aid for validation and prototype development.
- Seed Stage Funding: Up to ₹25 lakhs to startups that already have a viable product and are ready to scale operations.
🟢 3. Training & Capacity Building
Workshops, business planning sessions, and exposure visits are provided to build entrepreneurial skills.
🟢 4. Networking & Market Access
The scheme connects startups to agri-business experts, government programs, buyers, and large-scale farming networks.
Benefits of RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme for Entrepreneurs
This scheme not only helps in funding but also prepares startups to become competitive players in the agri-market. It reduces the initial burden of financial risk and offers a structured path for innovation-led business models to flourish.
Eligible beneficiaries should not miss this opportunity, as it can be the turning point for small ideas to become nationwide solutions.
How to Apply for the RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme
- Visit the official site: myscheme.gov.in
- Choose an Incubator: Select one from the list of ABIs according to your region or sector.
- Submit your Idea/Startup Proposal
- Get Shortlisted: Your proposal will be evaluated and you may be invited to pitch.
- Receive Support: If selected, you will be incubated and eligible for funding.
Why Every Agri-Innovator Should Apply
India is seeing a revolution in agriculture technology—from drones and IoT to smart irrigation and direct farmer-to-market platforms. If you have a disruptive idea, the RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme provides the ideal ecosystem to take it forward. Every eligible innovator, especially youth from rural India, should take advantage of this initiative and build their dream enterprise with government backing.
This scheme supports self-reliance, sustainable farming, and rural empowerment—core goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Conclusion: A Golden Chance for Agriculture Startups
The RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme is more than just financial support—it’s a complete platform that transforms rural and agri-based ideas into thriving businesses. With India’s vast agricultural base and increasing need for sustainable solutions, this scheme empowers the next generation of agripreneurs.
The RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme is more than just financial support—it’s a complete platform that transforms rural and agri-based ideas into thriving businesses. With India’s vast agricultural base and increasing need for sustainable solutions, this scheme empowers the next generation of agripreneurs.
At its core, RKVY-RAFTAAR is about creating self-reliant, innovative, and confident youth who can build solutions for real problems faced in Indian agriculture. It plays a crucial role in achieving the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Krishi and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Every year, hundreds of startups get selected, mentored, and funded through this scheme—and many have gone on to become successful enterprises that are making a real difference on the ground. There is no reason why your idea shouldn’t be next.
If you are eligible and passionate about solving agricultural challenges, don’t let this opportunity pass by. Apply today, get incubated, and let your idea grow roots and bear fruit—not just for your success, but for the farmers, the rural economy, and for the nation.
Please check the official myScheme page for more details.
