ATMA: Decentralized and Farmer-Friendly Extension Services
The Support to State Extension Programs for Extension Reforms (ATMA) is operational in 734 districts across 28 states and 5 Union Territories since 2005-06. It promotes decentralized, farmer-friendly agricultural extension systems. ATMA supports state governments in providing farmers with the latest agricultural technologies and best practices through trainings, demonstrations, exposure visits, Kisan Melas, mobilization of farmer groups, and Farm Schools.
The Skill Training of Rural Youth (STRY) program, implemented since 2015-16 by MANAGE with the support of SAMETIs and ATMA, provides short-term vocational training in agriculture-based areas. Over 86,000 rural youth, including farmers, have been trained to acquire practical skills that enhance employability and promote modern agricultural practices.
SMAM: Accessible Agricultural Mechanisation
The Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation (SMAM) aims to make farm machinery more accessible and affordable. Farmers receive financial assistance covering 40-50% of the cost of machinery, depending on their category. This initiative facilitates mechanized farming, increasing productivity and reducing labor dependency.
DAY-NRLM: Empowering Rural Livelihoods
The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) focuses on non-farm livelihoods by empowering women and their families to establish small enterprises under the Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP). SVEP supports Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in creating sustainable rural businesses across 31 states and Union Territories.
DAY-NRLM also strengthens market access, brand visibility, and income generation for SHG entrepreneurs. Efforts include institutional strengthening, brand development, digital enablement, and market integration. The Ministry of Rural Development has registered special trademarks such as “Saras”, “SarasAajeevika”, and “Aajeevika” to promote SHG products nationally, regionally, and locally.