Marking its 45th Foundation Day, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has launched “Gramodyam”, a nationwide entrepreneurship development programme aimed at creating a strong rural enterprise ecosystem and generating sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative has been launched in collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and will be implemented by the Institute for Industrial Development (IID).
Launched by NABARD Chairman Dr. Shaji K.V., Gramodyam is designed to identify, nurture and support aspiring entrepreneurs in rural India by providing them with industry-relevant skills, business knowledge, mentoring and access to finance. The programme seeks to transform innovative ideas into viable enterprises, creating employment opportunities while strengthening local economies.
The initiative adopts a digital-first, hybrid delivery model to ensure its reach across all States and Union Territories. Participants will be mobilised through digital platforms, social media campaigns, community outreach and field-level engagement.
Once enrolled, aspiring entrepreneurs will undergo a structured development process comprising psychometric assessments, counselling, entrepreneurship development programmes, sector-specific skill training, mentoring and enterprise establishment support.
Unlike conventional skill development initiatives, Gramodyam provides end-to-end assistance throughout the entrepreneurial journey. The programme includes identification of viable business opportunities, preparation of business plans, enterprise management training, market linkages, mentorship and post-establishment handholding to ensure the long-term sustainability of new businesses. NABARD expects the initiative to create not only self-employment but also local jobs and stronger community-based enterprises.
A major highlight of the programme is its comprehensive credit facilitation framework. Entrepreneurs will receive assistance in preparing bankable Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), applying for loans digitally and connecting with NABARD-supported Regional Rural Banks and other financial institutions. Guidance on relevant government schemes and incentives will also be provided to improve access to formal finance and reduce barriers to enterprise creation.
Transparency and effective monitoring have been built into the programme. Every participant will undergo e-KYC verification through NSDC, while the programme’s digital platform will enable real-time tracking of progress from enrolment and training to enterprise establishment and business growth.
NABARD and NSDC will monitor key performance indicators, including mobilisation of candidates, women’s participation, training completion, certification, GST and UDYAM registrations, enterprise operationalisation and sales performance based on verified business records.
During its pilot phase, Gramodyam aims to support the creation of around 4,000 rural entrepreneurs over a three-year period through a scalable implementation model. The initiative is expected to provide a blueprint for strengthening India’s rural enterprise ecosystem by combining skill development, digital technology, financial inclusion and market access.
Through Gramodyam, NABARD and NSDC have reaffirmed their commitment to entrepreneurship-led rural transformation. By equipping rural youth with the skills, financial support and institutional backing needed to establish successful enterprises, the programme seeks to contribute to inclusive economic growth, stronger rural livelihoods and the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047.
