Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business Centres (AC&ABC)

Brief
The AC&ABC scheme provides 45 days of free residential training to agricultural graduates and diploma holders to set up their own agri-ventures, such as soil testing labs, custom hiring centers, input shops, or consultancy services. These ventures are credit-linked, offering a back-ended subsidy on loans provided by banks to help with initial startup costs.

Objective
- Support government extension services with private, professional consultancy services on a fee or free basis
- Create gainful self-employment for unemployed agricultural graduates/professionals
- Enhance productivity and farm income through expert advice, modern technology, and input supply

Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 18 to 60 years
- Educational Background: Graduates in agriculture and allied subjects (Horticulture, Sericulture, Veterinary, Forestry, Dairy, Poultry, Fisheries) from recognized universities/SAUs
- Other Degrees: Graduates in biological sciences with a PG in agri-related courses are eligible
- Diploma/Intermediate: Diploma holders in agriculture (with at least 50% marks) or intermediate in agriculture (10+2 with at least 55% marks)

Benefits
- Free Training: 45 days of free residential training at Nodal Training Institutes (NTIs)
- Subsidy Structure:
    i. 44% of the project cost for Women, SC/ST, and all categories in North-Eastern (NE) and Hill states
    ii. 36% for all other categories
- Project Cost Ceiling: Up to ₹20 Lakhs (individual) or ₹100 Lakhs (group of 5 or more)
- Handholding: 1 year of handholding during the establishment of the venture

Nodal Department
- Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of India - Implementing/Training Agency: National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad
- Subsidy Channelizing Agency: National Bank for Agricultural and Rural Development (NABARD)