SUMMARY
- NABARD and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare have launched AgriSure, a ₹750 crore fund to support early-stage agri-startups and infrastructure development.
- ₹300 crore will be invested directly in startups, while ₹450 crore will function as a fund of funds for venture investors in the agriculture sector.
- AgriSure aims to reduce post-harvest losses, bridge infrastructure gaps, empower farmers, and boost rural economies by providing direct access to resources and reducing dependency on intermediaries.
The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, has unveiled a new ₹750 crore Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF), named “AgriSure,” to support early-stage agricultural startups. The fund aims to accelerate innovation in the agriculture sector and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
AgriSure’s total corpus of ₹750 crore will be allocated in two parts: ₹300 crore will be directly invested in promising agri-startups, while ₹450 crore will act as a fund of funds, providing capital to venture investors focused on agriculture and allied sectors. The central government and NABARD will each contribute ₹250 crore to the fund, with the remaining ₹250 crore expected to be raised from other banks, insurance companies, and private investors. The fund will be managed by NABVentures, a subsidiary of NABARD, and is set to operate for 10 years, with provisions for extensions.
The primary objectives of AgriSure include reducing post-harvest losses through investments in agricultural infrastructure such as warehouses, cold storage facilities, and processing units; bridging critical infrastructure gaps to strengthen the agricultural supply chain; and reducing farmers’ dependence on intermediaries by providing direct access to essential resources and infrastructure.
Additionally, the fund aims to empower rural communities by facilitating local economic growth and enhancing farmers’ income through improved access to agricultural infrastructure, reduced wastage, and greater market opportunities.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, highlighted the fund’s importance, stating, “Many young people are entering the agricultural field with innovative ideas and dedication but often lack the funding needed to realize their full potential. AgriSure will serve as a critical enabler for these startups.” He further emphasized the government’s commitment to nurturing and supporting good ideas in the agricultural sector.
