The beneficiary's contribution to the project cost is necessary in order to ensure his stake in the investment. Such margin money varies from 5% to 25% depending on the type of investments and the category of the beneficiaries. The margin money can be by way of contribution in cash or own or family labour. Large farmers, firms, corporate borrowers including state-owned corporations, forest development corporations provide margin money up to 25% pf the investment cost.
Special focus
•
Removal of regional and sectoral imbalances is one of the thrust areas and hence preference is given to the needs of the underdeveloped areas. For example, the development of the north-eastern region has been a key programme and special efforts have been made through refinance offered on liberal terms and other supportive measures so that the rural credit delivery system in the region is strengthened.
Monitoring
•
Special attention is paid to monitoring the projects that are offered assistance so that the targets are met and the implementation is properly done. An evaluation of the project is taken up and in the light of the findings the quality of the projects and their implementation methods can be improved. District-oriented monitoring studies are conducted to evaluate the performance of the ongoing agricultural development schemes sanctioned. Specific sector studies are also undertaken like floriculture, mushroom, aqua culture, agro-processing, etc. to get an insight into the problems and prospects of these sectors.
•
Guidelines are often issued for formulation of high-tech and export-oriented projects in farm and non-farm sectors. Besides, even consultancy is also offered for projects, including appraisal of projects even in cases where refinance is not secured from the bank.
