NABARD Subsidy: Financial Support for Cold Storage Infrastructure 2024

To reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen the supply chain for agricultural exports, NABARD continues to offer significant financial assistance under the Warehouse Infrastructure Fund (WIF) and related refinancing schemes. This initiative is particularly beneficial for SME exporters looking to establish temperature-controlled storage units for perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, and floriculture. ## Key points Under current NABARD guidelines, eligible entities—including private entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and FPOs—can access credit-linked capital subsidies for the construction, expansion, or modernization of cold storage facilities. The focus for 2024 is on 'Green Cold Chains' that utilize renewable energy sources and eco-friendly refrigerants. As specified in the NABARD operational guidelines for the Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure (AMI) sub-scheme, the subsidy is typically calculated based on the project’s capital cost, with preferential rates for projects located in North-Eastern states and hilly regions. Exporters can utilize these facilities to maintain the stringent quality standards required by international markets. Applicants must ensure that the projects are credit-linked and subjected to a joint inspection by the financing bank and NABARD to qualify for the final subsidy release. This financial backing significantly reduces the high initial Capex required for advanced cold-chain logistics.