Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme: The Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS) was launched in September 2010 to increase self-employment in India’s dairy sector. It was introduced as an alternative to the venture capital scheme for dairy and poultry. Designed for both the organised and unorganised sectors.
DEDS aims to expand small dairy farms and increase milk production with financial support. It supports various dairy-related activities in both organised and unorganised sectors, such as collection, transportation, marketing, and dairy processing.
Objective of the Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme
The primary goal of DEDS is to promote modern agriculture practices, increase milk production, and invigorate India’s dairy sector by creating opportunities for self-employment. This scheme emphasises infrastructure development and encourages quality milk production at the grassroots level.
Interest Rates under DEDS
DEDS provides loans at interest rates in accordance with RBI guidelines. Banks can charge interest on the loan amount until the beneficiaries receive the subsidy. The interest rate is applicable on the portion of the bank loan after deducting the subsidy received.
The loan repayment tenure ranges from 3 to 7 years. The grace period for loan repayment is 3-6 months for dairy farms. Beneficiaries owning calf-rearing units are eligible for a grace period of up to 3 years. However, this fully depends on the bank’s decision.
Eligibility Criteria
Under this scheme, the following organisations are eligible for NABARD loans for dairy farms across the country. The following individuals, groups, or organisations could benefit from this scheme:
Independent entrepreneurs and farmers.
Registered companies and NGOs.
Both organised and unorganised groups within the dairy sector, including dairy unions, self-help groups, dairy federations, and cooperative dairy societies, are eligible to participate.
Required Documents
To apply this scheme, you may need to submit the following documents:
Aadhar card, Address proof, Caste certificate, Passport photograph, Land documents, Written proposal detailing loan requirements and repayment plan, income certificate, etc.
Impact of DEDS on India’s Dairy Industry
DEDS has transformed the dairy sector by improving the country’s infrastructure. This has led to an increase in milk production and created opportunities for self-employment for rural farmers. Some of the changes it has brought to this sector are as follows:
Promotion of modern dairy farming methods and technology.
Increase in rural income through support for small and medium dairy farmers.
This will lead to a rise in milk production and the improvement of quality standards.
Easier access to better markets for dairy farmers and their products.
Improved infrastructure for milk collection, processing, and storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme?
The DEDS is a government initiative that aims to boost the dairy sector by providing financial support for setting up modern dairy farms. The scheme promotes self-employment and enhances milk production in organised and unorganised sectors.
When was the Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme launched?
The DEDS scheme was launched in September 2010.
What are the benefits of the scheme?
Increasing milk production and quality encourages modern dairy farming practices. Also supports milk processing and marketing infrastructure.