Agri UDAAN is a pioneering agricultural entrepreneurship scheme designed to accelerate the growth of start-ups within the agricultural sector by bridging innovative entrepreneurs with institutional investors. This forward-thinking initiative encourages young talent to actively participate in transforming agriculture, fostering sustainable development and driving economic progress.
What is the Agri UDAAN Programme?
Organised by the National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM), Agri UDAAN is an accelerator programme focused on Food and Agribusiness. It aims to fast-track the development of scale-up stage start-ups through intensive mentoring, broad industry networking, and investor engagement opportunities. This unique platform provides innovating start-ups the chance to showcase their products and services, gaining valuable guidance from mentors, incubators, research institutions, agribusiness sectors, and potential financiers.
Why Agri UDAAN is Needed
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of India’s economy but faces persistent challenges such as obsolete technology, lack of sufficient funding, and barriers to international markets. Agri UDAAN addresses these issues by nurturing innovative start-ups that offer solutions to modernise and revolutionise the agricultural landscape, thereby cultivating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem within the sector.
Governance and Oversight
The scheme is a flagship programme of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and is executed by NAARM under the oversight of the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India. These bodies work collaboratively to ensure the scheme’s effective implementation and success.
Objectives of Agri UDAAN
- To provide expert mentoring for emerging agricultural startups.
- To facilitate connections with potential investors and seasoned industry professionals.
- To offer funding and incubation support to selected ventures.
- To foster an environment conducive to innovation and technological advancement.
- To promote the commercialisation of breakthrough agricultural innovations.
Evolution of Agri UDAAN: Versions 2.0 to 6.0
Agri UDAAN 2.0 was built upon the original programme by delivering extensive training and mentorship to select start-ups, helping them refine business models, prepare market-ready products, and expand outreach. It enabled critical investor connections, supporting funding acquisition and entrepreneurial skill development.
Agri UDAAN 3.0 enhanced focus on research and development, promoting entrepreneurship, adoption of innovative technologies, and market expansion efforts, aiming to revolutionise agricultural productivity and farmer livelihoods.
Agri UDAAN 4.0 further pushed for innovation and sustainability, encouraging startups to develop eco-friendly solutions, strengthen supply chains, and build capacities among agri-entrepreneurs and workers.
Agri UDAAN 5.0 emphasised digital technologies such as precision farming, automation, and climate-resilient innovations. The scheme also worked to bolster inclusive value chains and empower start-ups with strategic business acumen.
Agri UDAAN 6.0, the latest edition launched by a-IDEA and ICAR-NAARM, continues to foster scale-up startups in the Food and Agribusiness sectors through intense mentoring, industry networking, and investor pitching, reaffirming the vital role of innovation in overcoming agricultural challenges.
Significance and Impact
Agri UDAAN has significantly contributed to nurturing a dynamic agritech start-up ecosystem in India. By facilitating access to mentorship, funding, and markets, it is transforming traditional agricultural practices into technology-driven operations. This progress not only enhances productivity and sustainability but also improves farmers’ income and livelihoods, supporting food security and rural development.
Future Outlook
The future of Agri UDAAN lies in strategic collaboration, inclusive growth, and innovation-led agricultural transformation. Embracing advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and seamless market linkages will ensure enhanced productivity, resilient farming communities, and a prosperous agricultural sector for India’s tomorrow.
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