The Extension Division drives the successful implementation of Agricultural Extension activities through various programmes and schemes. It assists farmers by providing information on scientific research and new agricultural practices. The division supports state governments in organizing and operating professional Extension Services. It implements SMAE (Sub Mission on Agricultural Extension) under KrishonnatiYojana and runs the popular ATMA Scheme to bolster state extension efforts. In addition, the division provides information support via DD Kisan channel and Krishi Vani programmes, and manages Kisan Call Centres at 21 locations using the toll-free number 1800-180-1551. The division also publishes four magazines in Hindi and English to disseminate the latest developments and information on extension activities.
The Extension Division’s key schemes under SMAE include:
• Support to State Extension Programmes for Extension Reforms – Facilitates state-level Agricultural Technology Management Agencies (ATMA) and extension reforms.
• Mass Media Support to Agricultural Extension – Involves Doordarshan, All India Radio, Print Media, Kisan Mela, Kisan Call Centre, and Common Services Center.
• Establishment of Agri-Clinic and Agri-Business Centres by Agriculture Graduates (ACABC) – Provides a 45-day specialized training to agriculture graduates.
• Extension Support to Central Institutions – Focuses on capacity building of extension functionaries and skill development of rural youth, farmers, and farm women through institutes such as EEIs, SAMETIs, and MANAGE.
Benefits
• Supplements public extension services with paid or free support based on local needs and business models.
• Supports overall agricultural development.
• Creates gainful self-employment opportunities for agricultural graduates, diploma holders, and others with relevant qualifications in agriculture and allied sectors.
Eligibility
• Open to candidates aged 18 to 60 years.
• Includes graduates in agriculture and allied subjects (e.g., Horticulture, Sericulture, Dairy, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Biotechnology, Agricultural Engineering, Forestry, Food Technology, Food Nutrition, and Dietetics) from recognized SAUs, Central Agricultural Universities, or other approved institutions.
• Also applicable for Diploma/Post Graduate Diploma holders in agriculture and allied subjects with at least 50% marks, and those with degrees in Environmental Science, Botany, Zoology, or Chemistry as recognized by ICAR/UGC.
• Candidates pursuing agriculture-related courses at the intermediate level with a minimum of 55% marks are eligible.
• The scheme provides full financial support for training, handholding, loans, and a credit-linked composite subsidy.
Application Process
Online
• Process of Selection:
– Eligible candidates are invited through advertisements in local newspapers, local employment exchanges, and various media channels such as Doordarshan, AIR, private TV and radio channels, and via networks including ATMA, Agricultural Universities, ICAR Institutions, KVKs, and Banks.
– Advertisements will also be uploaded on the websites of NTIs and MANAGE.
• Application Submission:
– Applications for training must be submitted through the online portal: https://acabcmis.gov.in/ApplicantReg.aspx
– Applicants must furnish proof of Aadhaar or complete Aadhaar registration. In the absence of an Aadhaar number, the applicant can avail benefits with alternative identity documents such as the Aadhaar enrolment ID slip, Voter ID, PAN, Passport, Ration Card, etc.
– Aadhaar details should be linked via a web-based registration process.
– Assistance is provided either in cash (transferred to the bank account) or in-kind (with SMS confirmation to the beneficiary).
Documents Required
• Aadhaar enrolment ID slip or Copy of request for Aadhaar enrolment
• Voter Identity Card
• PAN
• Passport
• Ration Card
• Employee Government ID
• Passbook of Bank or Post Office
• Driving Licence
• Any other document as specified by the State/UT
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the minimum and maximum age for the scheme?
A: The scheme is open to candidates aged 18 to 60 years.
Q: What is the official website to apply for the scheme?
A: Applications must be submitted online via https://acabcmis.gov.in/ApplicantReg.aspx.
Sources and References
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