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₹1.37 Lakh Crore Agriculture Budget – Government Contracts for Food Processing & Agri-Tech
Introduction
To revolutionize India’s agricultural landscape, the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has been allocated an impressive ₹1,37,757 crore to boost the sector. This significant budgetary provision reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability and opens new opportunities for various stakeholders in the industry.
Top Projects in Agriculture Budget 2025
- PM Kisan Sampada Yojana
With ₹22,000 crore allocated for food processing industries, this initiative aims to create modern infrastructure for food processing and preservation. The goal is to reduce post-harvest losses, add value to agricultural produce, and ensure better prices for farmers.
By establishing mega food parks, cold chain infrastructure, and agro-processing clusters, the scheme promotes the development of the food processing sector. This, in turn, will enhance employment opportunities and boost farmers’ income.
- Farm Mechanization & Agri-Tech Tenders
The allocation of ₹10,500 crore to modernize farming practices aims to promote the use of advanced machinery and technology in agriculture.
This funding will support the procurement of tractors, combine harvesters, and other farm equipment, as well as the integration of Agri-tech solutions such as precision farming, AI-based monitoring systems, and automation. The objective is to increase agricultural productivity, reduce labour costs, and ensure sustainable farming practices.
- Cold Storage & Warehousing Contracts
With ₹8,000 crore dedicated to post-harvest infrastructure development, this initiative focuses on building cold storage facilities and warehousing infrastructure to preserve the quality of agricultural produce. By improving storage facilities, the scheme aims to reduce spoilage and wastage, enhance the shelf life of perishable goods, and ensure a steady supply of produce throughout the year.
Additionally, the development of efficient logistics and supply chain management systems will facilitate better market access for farmers, ensuring they receive fair prices for their produce.
Who Can Apply for Agriculture Tenders?
In India, many individuals and entities can apply for agriculture tenders. Eligible applicants include registered farmers, farmer cooperatives, agribusiness companies, agricultural input suppliers, food processing units, agricultural research institutions, and companies specializing in agricultural technology. Essentially, any entity with the capacity to fulfil the requirements outlined in specific agriculture tenders issued by government agencies or private companies can apply.
Eligible Applicants:
1. Food Processing Companies & Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
Registered FPOs and cooperatives involved in agricultural production, processing, or distribution. Supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) are eligible to apply.
2. Cold Storage, Warehousing, and Logistics Companies
Companies specializing in storage, warehousing, and supply chain management. Supported by NABARD for infrastructure development can apply for such agricultural tenders.
3. Agri-Tech Startups
Startups working on AI, automation, and smart farming, registered under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) or as MSMEs are encouraged to apply.
4. Manufacturers of Tractors, Farm Equipment, and Irrigation Systems:
Companies engaged in the manufacturing of agricultural machinery and irrigation systems have the opportunity to apply for these tenders.
Other Entities:
1. Agro-Industries & Cooperatives: Organizations involved in agro-processing and supply chain management.
2. NGOs & Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Organizations working on rural development, organic farming, or sustainable agriculture.
3. Individual Contractors & Service Providers: Suppliers of agricultural inputs, equipment, and farm-related services.
Where to Find Agriculture Tenders?
1. Government Websites
State and central government websites frequently list agricultural tenders, providing a reliable source for businesses to find procurement opportunities. These websites often include detailed information about the tender, eligibility criteria, and submission deadlines. For example, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare regularly publishes tenders related to agricultural projects and services.
2. E-Tendering Platforms
Many government agencies use dedicated online platforms for the tendering process, ensuring transparency and efficiency. These platforms allow businesses to download tender documents, submit bids electronically, and track the status of their submissions.
3. Trade Associations
Agricultural trade associations can also provide valuable information about available tenders. These associations often have networks and resources that help businesses stay informed about procurement opportunities and industry trends.
Platforms to Find Agriculture Tenders in India:
1. Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Portal
An online platform for public procurement, including agriculture-related products and services. Agricultural suppliers, MSMEs, and startups can register on GeM to access tenders for farm equipment, seeds, fertilizers, irrigation systems, and other services.
2. Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
This department publishes tenders related to agricultural projects, procurements, and services. It serves as a vital source for businesses looking to engage in agricultural tenders issued by the government.
3. eProcurement Systems (CPPP)
The Central Public Procurement Portal (CPPP) lists tenders from multiple government departments, including agriculture. It ensures transparency and efficiency in the public procurement process by providing a centralized platform for tender information.
4. Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
ICAR issues tenders for research projects, farm equipment, agricultural services, and infrastructure development. It plays a crucial role in advancing agricultural research and innovation.
5. National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED)
NAFED releases tenders for the procurement and distribution of agricultural produce and related services. It supports the agricultural marketing and cooperative sectors. Reference: NAFED Tenders
State Agricultural Departments
Individual state agriculture departments publish region-specific tenders for farm infrastructure, input supply, and other agri-related services. These tenders cater to each state’s specific needs and conditions. For example, the Maharashtra Agriculture Department’s eTender portal provides state-level agricultural tenders. It varies by state; visit the respective state agriculture department websites.
The ₹1.37 lakh crore allocation to the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare is a significant step toward transforming India’s agricultural sector. This funding aims to boost productivity, modernize farming, and improve post-harvest infrastructure, offering numerous opportunities for stakeholders. Food processing businesses can benefit from ₹22,000 crore allocated to the PM Kisan Sampada Yojana, enabling the development of infrastructure, agro-processing clusters, and mega food parks, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving farmers’ incomes.
Agri-tech startups can leverage ₹10,500 crore for farm mechanization and Agri-tech tenders, integrating advanced technologies like AI and automation to enhance productivity and sustainability in farming. Cold storage and warehousing companies will benefit from ₹8,000 crore dedicated to improving post-harvest infrastructure, reducing wastage, and ensuring better market access for farmers.
The budget also supports a range of stakeholders, including farmer cooperatives, MSMEs, and NGOs, promoting a holistic approach to agricultural development. By focusing on infrastructure, technology, and innovation, the budget aims to drive economic growth, create jobs, and ensure sustainable development in the sector.
Overall, this budget provides a comprehensive investment in agriculture, laying the foundation for a resilient and productive sector that will support India’s growth in the long term.
