Lucknow | July 14, 2026 : The NABARD Gramodyam Programme has been launched to create a strong rural entrepreneurship ecosystem across India. The initiative was unveiled by Dr. Shaji K. V., Chairman of NABARD, during the organization’s 45th Foundation Day celebrations.

The programme has been developed in partnership with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The Institute for Industrial Development (IID) will implement the initiative.

The NABARD Gramodyam Programme aims to help rural youth build successful businesses, generate employment, and contribute to India’s long-term economic growth.

What is the NABARD Gramodyam Programme?

The NABARD Gramodyam Programme is a comprehensive Entrepreneurship Development Programme designed for aspiring rural entrepreneurs. It provides complete support from idea generation to business establishment.

The programme will help participants:

• Identify profitable business opportunities
• Develop entrepreneurial skills
• Receive industry-specific training
• Access mentorship from experts
• Get financial and credit support
• Connect with markets
• Build sustainable enterprises

As a result, rural youth can confidently transform innovative ideas into successful businesses.

Digital-First Approach to Reach Every Corner of India

Hybrid Learning Model for Maximum Outreach

One of the biggest strengths of the programme is its digital-first hybrid model.

Participants will join the programme through:

• Digital learning platforms
• Social media campaigns
• Community outreach activities
• On-ground mobilization drives

This approach will ensure equal access for entrepreneurs across all States and Union Territories.

Furthermore, every participant will receive step-by-step guidance throughout the entrepreneurial journey.

Complete Entrepreneurial Support from Training to Business Setup

End-to-End Assistance for Rural Startups

Unlike traditional training programmes, the NABARD Gramodyam Programme offers complete business support.

The programme includes:

• Psychometric assessments
• Career counselling
• Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP)
• Trade-specific skill training
• Business planning
• Enterprise management training
• Expert mentoring
• Market linkage support
• Post-establishment handholding

Therefore, entrepreneurs will receive continuous support before and after launching their businesses.

Credit Support to Turn Business Ideas into Reality

Easy Access to Finance Through NABARD Network

Access to finance remains a major challenge for rural entrepreneurs. Therefore, the programme includes a dedicated credit facilitation framework.

Participants will receive support for:

• Preparing bankable Detailed Project Reports (DPRs)
• Applying for business loans digitally
• Connecting with NABARD-supported Regional Rural Banks
• Accessing other financial institutions
• Learning about government schemes and incentives

This structured approach will make formal financing more accessible for first-time entrepreneurs.

Transparent Monitoring Through NSDC Digital Platform

Every beneficiary under the NABARD Gramodyam Programme will complete e-KYC verification through NSDC.

The integrated digital platform will monitor every stage of the programme, including:

• Candidate registration
• Training progress
• Certification
• Enterprise establishment
• Business growth

Additionally, the platform will track important performance indicators such as:

• Gender participation
• Training completion rate
• GST registration
• UDYAM registration
• Enterprise operational status
• Average sales performance

Consequently, the programme will maintain transparency while measuring real business outcomes.

Pilot Phase to Create 4,000 Rural Entrepreneurs

During the pilot phase, the NABARD Gramodyam Programme aims to create nearly 4,000 rural entrepreneurs over the next three years.

The programme follows a scalable implementation model. Therefore, it can expand further based on future demand and success.

Moreover, each new enterprise has the potential to create additional local employment and strengthen village economies.

Supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047

The NABARD Gramodyam Programme aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047.

By combining:

• Skill development
• Entrepreneurship training
• Financial inclusion
• Digital innovation
• Market connectivity
• Continuous mentoring

the initiative seeks to build a new generation of rural entrepreneurs capable of driving inclusive economic growth.

As more rural enterprises emerge, local economies will become stronger, employment opportunities will increase, and sustainable development will accelerate across India.

The launch of the NABARD Gramodyam Programme marks an important milestone in India’s rural development journey. By bringing together entrepreneurship training, digital learning, financial support, and mentorship under one platform, NABARD and NSDC have created a comprehensive ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs.

If implemented successfully, the programme will not only create thousands of new rural enterprises but also strengthen India’s vision of self-reliance, inclusive growth, and sustainable economic development.

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