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Introduction to Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF)
The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) is a central sector scheme launched in June 2020 under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. It provides a total outlay of ₹29,110.25 crore (expanded from initial ₹15,000 crore) up to FY 2025-26, with applications accepted till March 31, 2026. The scheme incentivizes investments in animal husbandry infrastructure to boost milk, meat, and feed sectors. Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme DEDS 2026: Get 25-33% Capital Subsidy for Dairy
AHIDF offers 3% interest subvention on eligible term loans for 8 years and up to 90% credit guarantee coverage through a NABARD-managed fund. Eligible projects include dairy processing plants, meat processing units, animal feed plants, breed improvement farms, and value-added products. It targets individuals, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), MSMEs, cooperatives, and private companies. NABARD Agriculture Loan Scheme 2026: Secure Low-Interest Crop Loans at 4% Effective Rate
The scheme has disbursed significant funds, creating employment and enhancing exports. In 2026, it remains active with interactive sessions for beneficiaries. NABARD refinances banks, ensuring smooth implementation. This supports farmers and entrepreneurs in building modern facilities for better animal health, productivity, and market access.
Why Choose AHIDF Scheme?
AHIDF reduces borrowing costs with 3% interest subvention, making large-scale infrastructure affordable. High credit guarantee minimizes risk for lenders. It promotes value addition in dairy and meat, increasing farmer income. In 2026, the scheme’s extension till March allows more entrepreneurs to benefit.
No direct subsidy, but effective lower rates and guarantee make it attractive. Suits startups and expansions in animal husbandry. Aligns with national goals for self-reliance in food processing.
Benefits of AHIDF Scheme
Lower effective interest, high loan coverage, employment generation.
Key Advantages Table
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Interest Subvention | 3% for 8 years on term loans. |
| Credit Guarantee | Up to 90% by NABARD fund. |
| Loan Coverage | Up to 90% of project cost. |
| Eligible Sectors | Dairy, meat, feed, breeding. |
| Inclusive | Priority for FPOs, MSMEs. |
Key Features of AHIDF Scheme
AHIDF finances infrastructure with concessional terms.
Interest Subvention and Guarantee
- 3% subvention for all eligible entities.
- Credit guarantee fund of ₹750 crore (managed by NABARD).
- Lending rate: Bank-determined, reduced by subvention.
Eligible Components
Dairy processing, meat plants, feed manufacturing, breed farms.
Eligible Project Details Table
| Component | Examples | Project Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy | Milk chilling, processing | Varies |
| Meat | Processing units for sheep/goat/poultry | Up to crores |
| Feed Plants | Animal feed manufacturing | High investment |
| Breeding Farms | Breed improvement centers | Infrastructure focused |
Loan and Repayment
Term loans from banks. Repayment up to 10-15 years. Moratorium possible.
Eligibility for AHIDF Scheme
Individuals, FPOs, MSMEs, cooperatives, private companies.
Eligibility Criteria
- Indian entity.
- Viable project in animal husbandry.
- No defaults.
- Priority for women, SC/ST, rural areas.
- Udyam registration for MSMEs.
Interest Rates and Charges
Bank rates 8-12%, effective lower by 3% subvention.
Interest Rate Table
| Loan Type | Nominal Rate | Effective After Subvention |
|---|---|---|
| Term Loan | 8-12% | 5-9% |
| Guarantee Fee | Low | Covered by fund |
How to Apply for AHIDF Scheme
Apply through banks or portal.
Application Process
- Prepare project report.
- Approach scheduled bank.
- Bank appraises and sanctions loan.
- Apply for subvention/guarantee via AHIDF portal (ahidf.udyamimitra.in).
- Department approves.
- Funds disbursed, subvention claimed.
Required Documents
Standard for loans.
Documents Checklist Table
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar/PAN | ID |
| Udyam/GST | Registration |
| Project Report | Details |
| Bank Statements | Financials |
| Land Proof | Location |
Link with Other Schemes
AHIDF complements NLM, NPDD. NABARD refinance.
Participating Banks
Scheduled commercial banks, RRBs.
Benefits for Entrepreneurs
Modern units, better prices, exports.
Challenges and Tips
Documentation heavy. Tips: Strong report, consult NABARD.
Risk Management
Insurance for assets.
Costs and Earnings
Project ₹1-10 crore. Subvention saves lakhs. Earnings from processing high.
Cost Breakdown Table
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Interest Save | 3% for 8 years |
| Guarantee | 90% coverage |
Success Stories
Units established, employment created.
Future in 2026
Applications till March 31, 2026. More focus on sustainability.
Conclusion
AHIDF boosts animal husbandry. Apply soon.
FAQ Section
What is AHIDF Scheme?
Fund for animal husbandry infrastructure.
Interest Subvention?
3% for 8 years.
Credit Guarantee?
90%.
Eligibility?
Individuals, FPOs, MSMEs.
How to Apply?
Through banks/portal.
Documents?
Aadhaar, project report.
Deadline?
March 31, 2026.
Benefits?
Lower costs, high coverage.
Eligible Projects?
Dairy, meat, feed.
NABARD Role?
Refinance, guarantee.
FAQ Table
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Subvention | 3% |
| Guarantee | 90% |
| Eligibility | MSMEs/FPOs |
| Apply | Banks |
| Deadline | March 2026 |
| Documents | Aadhaar |
| Benefits | Cost Reduction |
| Projects | Dairy/Meat |
| NABARD | Refinance |
| Outlay | ₹29,110 Cr |