Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) – Benefits, Eligibility & How to Apply

Farmers’ Growth is Nation’s Growth – How RKVY is Uplifting Indian Agriculture

Every farmer dreams of better income, good crop yield, and financial security. But without proper support, many struggle with low prices, lack of irrigation, and no access to modern techniques. To solve this, the government launched the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (राष्ट्रीय कृषि विकास योजना). This scheme is designed to provide holistic support to farmers, improve infrastructure, and modernize agriculture practices.

In Union Budget 2025, the government allocated more funds to RKVY-RAFTAAR, focusing on startups, agritech, and better infrastructure in rural areas. This scheme is a big step towards making “Atmanirbhar Krishi” a reality.

What is Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)?

Launched in 2007, RKVY is a central government scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. It supports the states in implementing farmer-friendly projects, such as:

  • Irrigation and water-saving
  • Soil health and testing labs
  • Warehouses and cold storage
  • Farmer training centres
  • Custom hiring centres
  • Agri-startups and innovations

Since 2017, the revamped version is known as RKVY-RAFTAAR (Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied sector Rejuvenation).

Who Can Apply?

RKVY is implemented through State Governments, so individual farmers do not directly apply for funds. But, farmers benefit directly from RKVY-supported projects.

However, agripreneurs, startups, and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organisations) can apply for funding under the Innovation and Agribusiness Development component.

Beneficiaries include:

  • Small and marginal farmers
  • Agri startups and incubators
  • Women and youth in agriculture
  • FPOs and cooperatives
  • Rural entrepreneurs

Each project is approved at the state level based on the need of the region and farming community.

What Benefits Will Farmers Get?

Under RKVY, farmers enjoy indirect and direct benefits, depending on the scheme component running in their area:

Major Benefits:

  • Better access to irrigation facilities
  • Soil health cards and testing services
  • Farm machinery on rent (Custom Hiring Centres)
  • Training programs on modern farming methods
  • Assistance for livestock, poultry, and fisheries
  • Cold chains and value addition support
  • Funding for agri-startups up to ₹25 lakh

This scheme not only increases productivity but also ensures fair pricing through better storage and marketing infrastructure.

Latest Update – What’s New in 2025?

In 2025, the focus is on digital agriculture and youth involvement. Key updates include:

  • Promotion of agritech startups through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
  • GIS-based crop planning tools for state-level agriculture departments
  • Integration of drone services for crop surveillance
  • Online RKVY Dashboard for tracking progress (rkvy.nic.in)

The government is also emphasizing millet production, organic farming, and value-chain development.

According to a report by the Ministry of Agriculture, “Over ₹1.4 lakh crore has been released to states under RKVY since inception, benefiting over 15 crore farmers” (Source: agricoop.gov.in).

How to Apply or Avail Benefits?

For Farmers:

  • Contact your Block Agriculture Office or District Agriculture Officer.
  • Enroll in training or custom hiring centres funded by RKVY.
  • Use the facilities like cold storage, seed hubs, or irrigation setup.

For Startups and FPOs:

  • Apply through RKVY Agribusiness Incubation Centres.
  • Register and submit project proposals at https://rkvy.nic.in
  • Selected ideas receive financial support up to ₹25 lakhs.
  • The proposal must focus on innovative, scalable, and technology-led solutions in agriculture.

There is no fixed last date—applications and proposals are accepted as per state-level calls and incubation centre schedules.

Real Impact – Voices from the Fields

“After the cold storage was built in our village, we store tomatoes longer and get better rates,” says Gopal, a farmer from Maharashtra.

“We got irrigation pipes and soil testing kits through a training centre supported by RKVY. Our costs reduced,” shares Rani Devi, from Jharkhand.

These small steps make a big difference in farmers’ lives—ensuring higher income, better quality, and more confidence.

Related Articles:

RKVY Quick Summary

  • Scheme Name: Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) – RAFTAAR
  • Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare
  • Launched: 2007 (revamped in 2017)
  • Aim: Agriculture infrastructure, income boost, startup funding
  • Who Benefits: Farmers, FPOs, agri startups
  • Funds Provided By: Central + State Governments
  • Support Areas: Irrigation, storage, machinery, training, innovation
  • Apply: Through state agriculture offices or https://rkvy.nic.in

Final Words – Let Every Farmer Rise

Agriculture is not just a profession—it’s a lifeline for our nation. Through RKVY, the government is ensuring our farmers are empowered with technology, training, and infrastructure.

If you’re a farmer, agripreneur, or startup passionate about agriculture, don’t miss this golden opportunity. Visit your local agriculture office or log on to the official website today.

When the roots are strong, the nation grows stronger. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana is that strong root for India’s agri-future.

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