Most of the time, the producers in the unorganised sector are not able to realise the optimum prices due to lack of negotiation power, small production which many times is not as per the market requirements, and inability to display the products at appropriate location in the showroom etc. In this direction NABARD has launched a pilot scheme for setting up of Marketing Outlets -"Rural Marts"- at district level and sub district level. The scheme was introduced with effect from 19 September 2005 on pilot basis in 9 states and extended to all the states during 2006-07. The main objectives are to facilitate marketing linkages for the artisan, handicraft and agro based products through setting up of a retail outlet and cover the risk involved in the initial stages of setting up the rural retail outlet.
Federations of or Activity Groups, Producer Groups/Associations, Farmers Club and Matured SHG are eligible for assistance.
Grant assistance of Rs.1.45 lakh for district level and Rs.0.90 lakh for below district level is the maximum limit for this purpose .
Facilitating NGO is eligible for lump-sum grant of Rs.15,000/ for district level & Rs.10,000/ for sub district level Mart.
