A workshop on the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) was held at Angh House, Agri Expo in Chumukedima, Nagaland on 14th October 2024.
At the programme, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Samuel Praveen Kumar delivered a keynote address highlighting the importance of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF). Speaking on the transformative potential of the scheme, Kumar emphasized its role in modernizing India's agricultural infrastructure, boosting production, and securing better returns for farmers. He underscored the scheme’s benefits, including the 3% interest subvention on loans up to ₹2 Cr. and flexible repayment terms, as well as the broad range of eligible projects such as post-harvest management, poly houses, and logistics facilities. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, cooperatives, and agricultural organizations in leveraging the AIF to drive long-term growth in the sector.
Kumar said that technology and innovation are empowering farmers for a sustainable future is transforming agriculture. Precision farming, AI, and smart irrigation systems are helping farmers increase productivity, cut costs, and adopt more sustainable practices, he added. He said that the Government is investing in these innovations, ensuring a promising future for farming that balances profitability and sustainability.
Acknowledging the region's unique challenges, such as hilly terrain and remote villages, Kumar emphasized the government's dedication to providing financial and technical support to help farmers thrive. He also assured citizens that rural development, healthcare, and education would be prioritized to enhance the quality of life in the state. He stated that the government's initiatives include improving irrigation systems, introducing modern farming techniques, and forming cooperatives to empower small-scale farmers. He added that special attention will be given to Nagaland's unique crops and resources, with efforts to integrate them into national and global markets.
The event featured presentations on the AIF scheme, focusing on the North East Region, was led by the AIF team where the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) focused on enhancing agricultural infrastructure in the North East region. The AIF aims to provide financial support for projects like cold storage, warehouses, and processing units, crucial for improving farmers' productivity and market access.
During the session, the AFI highlighted the fund's attractive financing options and tailored strategies to address the unique challenges faced by farmers in the North East. Local stakeholders, including farmers and government officials, expressed optimism about the fund's potential to transform agriculture in the region.
Deputy General Manager of NABARD, O. P. Mounglang, addressed the opportunities and challenges within the scheme. The Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) scheme in India is designed to boost the agricultural sector by financing infrastructure development. While the scheme holds immense potential, several challenges and opportunities accompany its implementation.
Agriculture Production Commissioner Nagaland, Wezope Kenye delivered the welcome address while Joint Secretary Agriculture Department, Limanenla chaired the programme.
The workshop commenced with an inaugural session which included a Q&A session.
(Limatoshi, IA Dimapur)
