The Government of Gujarat has taken a significant step towards uplifting the socio-economic conditions of Scheduled Tribe (ST) farmers by launching the “Scheme for Subsidy on Interest for Establishment of 1 to 20 Milch Animal Farm for Scheduled Tribes.” This initiative, introduced by the Department of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare & Cooperation, aims to support small and marginal ST farmers in establishing milch animal farms, thereby enhancing their livelihood opportunities and contributing to sustainable rural development.
Objective of the Milch Animal Farms Loan
The primary objective of this scheme is to provide financial assistance to ST farmers for setting up cattle farms with 1 to 20 milch animals. By offering an interest subsidy on loans, the government seeks to reduce the financial burden on farmers while encouraging dairy farming as a viable source of income. Additionally, the scheme promotes eco-friendly agricultural practices by utilizing organic manure from animal dung and converting agricultural by-products into value-added products like milk and meat.
Key Benefits of the Scheme
- Interest Subsidy: Beneficiaries can avail an interest subsidy of up to 12% per annum on bank loans for five years. The subsidy will be directly credited to the beneficiary’s loan account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
- Affordable Livestock Purchase: Farmers can purchase high-quality dairy animals such as cows and buffalo at subsidized rates based on their capacity and needs.
- Sustainable Farming Practices: The scheme emphasizes the use of organic manure produced from animal waste to improve soil fertility and crop yields, fostering sustainable agriculture.
- Economic Empowerment: By enabling farmers to generate additional income through milk production and allied activities, the scheme contributes to poverty alleviation among tribal communities.
Eligibility Conditions
To qualify for the benefits under this scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of Gujarat State.
- The applicant should belong to the Scheduled Tribe category.
- The farmer must own or have access to land owned by a family member.
- A loan must have been availed during the current financial year (2023-24) from a nationalized bank or RBI-approved financial institution.
- The unit must comply with guidelines issued by the Animal Husbandry Authority.
How Will the Interest Be Calculated?
The interest subsidy will be calculated based on the lower of:
- The actual interest rate charged by the bank.
- Or, a maximum of 12% per annum on the unit cost of the animal/loan amount advanced by the bank.
The subsidy will be disbursed annually in installments via DBT, ensuring transparency and timely delivery of funds.
How to Apply – Online Process
Applying for the scheme is simple and fully digital, thanks to the user-friendly I-Khedut Portal. Here’s how you can apply;
- Visit the I-Khedut Portal (Website is not working).
- Click on the “Apply New” button and fill out the application form.
- Upload all necessary documents, including your Aadhaar card, caste certificate, loan account passbook, and land ownership proof.
- Confirm the application within seven days of saving it online.
- Submit the signed application along with supporting documents to the concerned office address mentioned on the portal.
Note: Ensure that uploaded PDF files do not exceed 200 KB in size. Incomplete or incorrect applications can be rectified by submitting the required documents within seven days.
Necessary Documents for Application
To ensure smooth processing of your application, make sure you have the following documents ready;
- Government-approved photo ID (Aadhaar Card/Voter ID Card)
- Land ownership details (if applicable)
- Caste Certificate
- Bank account details
- Loan account passbook or bank disbursement certificate
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Ration card (optional)
- Beneficiary Undertaking/Consent Form
Why Is This Scheme Important?
Dairy farming plays a crucial role in rural economies, especially for marginalized communities like Scheduled Tribes. However, limited access to capital often hinders their ability to invest in livestock farming. Through this scheme, the Gujarat government addresses these challenges by reducing the financial strain associated with loans. Moreover, promoting dairy farming aligns with the broader goals of food security, environmental sustainability, and inclusive growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the purpose of the scheme?
A1. The scheme aims to empower ST farmers by providing interest subsidies on loans for purchasing milch animals, thereby improving their livelihoods and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Q2. Who can benefit from this scheme?
A2. Small and poor farmers belonging to the Scheduled Tribe category who are permanent residents of Gujarat State and have availed a loan for setting up a cattle farm.
Q3. How much interest subsidy can I get?
A3. You can avail an interest subsidy of up to 12% per annum on the loan amount for five years.
Q4. Where can I apply for the scheme?
A4. Applications can be submitted online through the I-Khedut Portal.
Q5. What happens if I upload wrong or incomplete documents?
A5. If incorrect/incomplete documents are uploaded, the application will not be processed. You must submit the correct documents to the concerned office within seven days.
Conclusion
The “Scheme for Subsidy on Interest for Establishment of 1 to 20 Milch Animal Farm for Scheduled Tribes” is a landmark initiative aimed at empowering tribal farmers in Gujarat. By combining financial aid, technical support, and eco-friendly practices, the scheme paves the way for economic prosperity and sustainable development in rural areas. For eligible beneficiaries, this is an excellent opportunity to enhance their livelihoods while contributing to India’s vision of self-reliant villages.
If you’re an ST farmer looking to venture into dairy farming, don’t miss out on this golden opportunity. Apply today and take the first step toward a brighter future!
