Govt Launches Realigned AHIDF Scheme and Released Radio Jingle to Boost Livestock Sector Infrastructure

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, launched the realigned Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) Scheme and announced the Radio Jingle dedicated to AHIDF on Wednesday, February 14, in New Delhi. This initiative aims to bolster the infrastructure in the livestock sector, catering to the needs of farmers and industries alike.

Parshottam Rupala highlighted the significance of the AHIDF Scheme, emphasizing its inception during the challenging COVID-19 period. The scheme, now realigned and extended for another three years, stands as a beacon of support for the industry, Farmers' Producer Organizations (FPOs), and Dairy Cooperatives.

Enhanced Funding and Extended Duration

Following the Cabinet's approval on February 1, 2024, the AHIDF underwent significant realignment, with its allocation expanded to Rs 29,610 crore, up from the initial Rs 15,000 crore. The extended scheme will continue its implementation until 2025-26, focusing on addressing the evolving needs of the dairy sector.

Under the realigned scheme, Dairy Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF) has been subsumed, offering Dairy Cooperatives enhanced benefits. These include a 3% interest subvention, up from the previous 2.5%, along with Credit Guarantee support under the AHIDF. This boost aims to empower Dairy Cooperatives to upgrade their processing infrastructure, thereby benefiting a large number of milk producers across the nation.

Stakeholder Engagement and Testimonials

The inaugural event witnessed participation from various stakeholders, including industry associations, National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Dairy Cooperatives, FPOs, and officials from North Eastern States. Notably, ABIS Export Private Limited pledged a substantial investment of Rs 2000 crore, recognizing the scheme's role in fostering livestock infrastructure.

Several entities showcased their ongoing projects facilitated by the AHIDF. Dishala Livelihood Producer Company Limited shared their venture in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, highlighting a dairy processing and value-addition project. Similarly, Amba Feed unveiled its Animal Feed plant in Coimbatore, reflecting the scheme's impact across diverse regions.

Benefits Under the Realigned Scheme

The realigned AHIDF offers a slew of benefits, including:

• Interest Subvention: 3% payable over 8 years

• Eligible Entities: Individuals, FPOs, Dairy Cooperatives, Private Companies, MSMEs, and more

• Credit Guarantee Cover: Up to 25% of the term loan

• No Loan Ceiling: Offering flexibility in loan amounts

• High Loan Percentage: Up to 90% of the project cost

• Integration with Other Schemes: Dovetailing with capital subsidy schemes of other ministries or state-level initiatives

• Online Application Process: Streamlined via the portal www.ahidf.udyamimitra.in for ease of access and transparency.

Transforming Livestock Sector Infrastructure

Since its launch under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan Initiative in June 2020, the AHIDF has witnessed remarkable progress nationwide. Noteworthy achievements include the establishment of dairy and meat processing facilities, animal feed plants, and breed improvement farms, among others. The scheme has generated employment opportunities for approximately 15 lakh individuals, with an overall investment of Rs 8903 crore.

To ensure transparency and efficiency, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) has developed the portal www.ahidf.udyamimitra.in. This platform has facilitated seamless application processing, enabling effective implementation of the scheme.

Attended the launch event for the Realigned AHIDF at New Delhi along with other dignitaries and stakeholders of the scheme. pic.twitter.com/fBkwNYWPmP
— Parshottam Rupala (@PRupala) February 14, 2024