AGR 4 Farm Mechanization Scheme: Financial Assistance for SC Farmers in Gujarat

The scheme “AGR 4 (Farm Mechanization) Scheme for SC Farmers” was started by the Department of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare & Co-operation, Government of Gujarat. Under the scheme, financial assistance is given to farmers of the Scheduled Caste category for the purchase of agricultural equipment to increase agricultural crop production. The state government launched this scheme to promote agricultural mechanization, enabling farmers to achieve higher quality and increased yields at lower costs by efficiently utilizing natural resources such as land, water, and atmosphere. This scheme is implemented across Gujarat except in 208 talukas where the centrally sponsored “Submissions on Agricultural Mechanization” (SMAM) scheme is already active. The scheme is 100% sponsored by the state government.

Benefits

1. Beneficiaries receive financial assistance for purchasing agricultural equipment/components such as power tillers, rice transplanters, self-propelled machinery, tractor/power tiller operated implements/tools, electric motor-operated equipment, etc.

Eligibility

• The beneficiary must be a permanent resident of Gujarat State.

• Only farmers belonging to the Scheduled Caste category (in talukas where the SMAM scheme is not implemented) are eligible.

• The beneficiary must purchase equipment from an authorized dealer from the panel prepared for price discovery by the state government.

Application Process (Online)

1. Step 01:

   • Apply online at the I-Khedut Portal: https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in/iKhedutPublicScheme/Public/frm_Public_SchemeDetails.aspx

2. Step 02:

   • Click on “Click here for details” in the Farming Schemes Section.

3. Step 03:

   • Select the desired scheme component on the portal (the “Apply” button appears automatically for components accepting applications).

4. Step 04:

   • Read the instructions carefully and choose ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ for “Are you a registered applicant?” then click “Click to proceed.”

5. Step 05:

   • Click on “Click to Apply Newly” to submit a new application.

6. Step 06:

   • Use “Click to Update Application” for corrections if necessary.

7. Step 07:

   • Click “Click to confirm the application” and confirm your application. Only confirmed applications will be considered; unconfirmed ones will be rejected.

8. Step 08:

   • Take a printout of the confirmed application for further reference.

9. Note:

   • Contact the District Agriculture Officer of the concerned district if further assistance is needed. Their details are available at: https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in/Public/frm_Public_Contacts.aspx

Additional Notes:

• The online application must be submitted within the prescribed time.

• Pre-approval for purchase is based on the application; equipment must be purchased within the stipulated timeframe, with all supporting evidence submitted as per the pre-approval order.

• If wrong/incomplete documents are uploaded, the beneficiary must submit the remaining or correct documents to the concerned office within seven days.

• Once confirmed, the application cannot be updated; a printout of the confirmed application must be retained.

Documents Required

• Government-approved photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar Card)

• Evidence of land ownership (if applicable)

• Caste Certificate (issued by the competent authority)

• Disability Certificate (if applicable)

• Ration Card (if applicable)

• Bank account details

• Beneficiary’s Undertaking/Consent Form

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the objective of the scheme?
   To enhance agricultural mechanization among SC farmers in Gujarat by providing financial assistance for purchasing modern agricultural equipment, thereby increasing production and reducing costs.

2. Which department has launched this scheme?
   The Department of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare & Co-operation, Government of Gujarat.

3. Who is eligible to get the benefits of the scheme?
   Only permanent residents of Gujarat belonging to the Scheduled Caste category (in areas where SMAM is not implemented) are eligible.

4. Can a farmer of general category apply under this scheme?
   No, the scheme is exclusively for Scheduled Caste farmers.

5. What is the benefit of the scheme?
   It provides financial assistance for purchasing agricultural equipment such as power tillers, rice transplanters, and other mechanized tools to boost crop production and reduce costs.

6. What is the full form of the SMAM scheme?
   SMAM stands for “Submissions on Agricultural Mechanization.” (Note: This scheme is not implemented in 208 talukas where SMAM is active.)

7. Is this a state-sponsored scheme?
   Yes, the scheme is 100% sponsored by the Government of Gujarat.

8. Is it mandatory to purchase the equipment from an authorized manufacturer?
   Yes, beneficiaries must purchase the equipment from an authorized dealer as per the panel prepared for price discovery.

9. How can a beneficiary apply under the scheme?
   Beneficiaries must apply online through the I-Khedut Portal following the detailed steps provided.

10. What should I do if wrong/incomplete documents have been uploaded on the portal?
    Submit the correct or additional documents to the concerned office within seven days of application submission.

Sources And References

• Official Website: I-Khedut Portal