02/09/2024
1. Viable Farming Assets
The scheme now includes the creation of infrastructure for 'viable projects for building
community farming assets'. This expansion allows all eligible beneficiaries to develop
projects that enhance community farming capabilities, potentially improving productivity
and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
2. Integrated Processing Projects
The list of eligible activities under AIF now includes integrated primary and secondary
processing projects. However, standalone secondary projects remain ineligible and will
continue to be covered under Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) schemes.
3. PM KUSUM Component-A Integration
The government has allowed convergence between Component-A of the PM-KUSUM
scheme and AIF. This integration is available for farmers, farmer groups, Farmer
Producer Organizations (FPOs), cooperatives, and Panchayats. The aim is to promote
sustainable clean energy solutions alongside agricultural infrastructure development.
4. Enhanced Credit Guarantee Coverage
In addition to the existing Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises
(CGTMSE), the government proposes to extend AIF credit guarantee coverage for FPOs
through the NABSanrakshan Trustee Company Pvt. Ltd.
This expansion of credit guarantee options is designed to improve the financial security
and creditworthiness of FPOs, encouraging increased investments in agricultural
infrastructure projects.
