In a major push to boost innovation and entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, Pusa Krishi, ICAR-IARI has launched its flagship incubation programs, UPJA and ARISE 2025–26, early this month. These programs are part of the RKVY-RAFTAAR initiative under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and are aimed at supporting early-stage and growth-stage agri-startups across India.
Designed specifically to nurture innovation in agriculture and allied sectors, these incubation programs offer aspiring entrepreneurs the vital resources, mentorship and funding they need to bring their business ideas to life.
Empowering Startups at Every Stage
UPJA (Seed Stage) is tailored for agri-startups that have already developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and entered the market. The program focuses on validating technology, refining go-to-market strategies, enabling pilot opportunities and facilitating industry partnerships. Selected startups under UPJA are eligible for funding support of up to Rs. 25 lakhs.
On the other hand, ARISE (Pre-Seed Stage) is built to support early-stage entrepreneurs who are still refining their ideas. The program offers critical support including business and technology validation, industry exposure, advisory services and hands-on mentoring. Startups at the ideation stage can avail funding of up to Rs. 5 lakhs through ARISE.
Special Support for Student Innovators
Recognizing the potential of student-led innovation, the initiative also provides financial support of up to Rs. 4 lakhs for students who are in the early stages of product development but have yet to formally register a startup. This creates a unique opportunity for young minds to contribute meaningfully to India’s agri-tech revolution.
Who Can Apply?
The programs are open to:
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Indian startups at the MVP or prototype stage.
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Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas in the agriculture and allied sectors.
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Students with unregistered startups or early-stage concepts.
How to Apply?
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In order to apply for the incubation programs, visit Pusa Krishi’s official website – https://pusakrishi.in
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On the homepage, you will find the UPJA & ARISE application link.
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Fill in the required details and submit your application
Alternatively, you can apply directly through the following link:
Apply here: https://pusakrishi.accubate.app/ext/form/3395/1/apply
It must be noted that registrations for both programs began on 1st April, 2025 and will remain open until 30th April, 2025. You can also directly apply through the link given below;
With these programs, Pusa Krishi reaffirms its commitment to driving sustainable growth and innovation in India’s agricultural landscape, enabling the next generation of entrepreneurs to build impactful, market-ready solutions.
