Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme for Rural Entrepreneurs to set up Custom Hiring Centres of Farm Machinery is a West Bengal government scheme that gives financial support to rural entrepreneurs for setting up custom hiring centres (CHCs). Under the scheme, eligible farmers and groups can rent modern farm equipment at affordable rates, which helps raise crop output and create rural jobs.
For the financial year 2026-27, the state has released a fresh advertisement on the official Farm Mechanisation portal at wbfms.wb.gov.in. Entrepreneurs can apply online for the subsidy, which covers up to 40% of the project cost for establishing a custom hiring centre.
Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme for Rural Entrepreneurs to set up Custom Hiring Centres of Farm Machinery - Introduction
Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme for Rural Entrepreneurs to set up Custom Hiring Centres of Farm Machinery, managed by the Agriculture Department of West Bengal, creates useful opportunities for rural entrepreneurs. By helping set up custom hiring centres, this scheme lets local farmers rent advanced farm machinery at reasonable rates, which reduces risks during bad weather and increases crop yield.
Launched on 22nd October 2014, this program runs across the state, excluding Kolkata. If you are an entrepreneur looking to start a centre, you can choose from a variety of machinery listed on the Farm Mechanisation portal. You should select at least four types of implements and a maximum of two tractors. If you need specific machinery not listed, you can request approval from the State Project Management Team (SPMT), as the list is meant to be flexible to your local needs.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme for Rural Entrepreneurs to set up Custom Hiring Centres of Farm Machinery |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Infra |
| Beneficiary State | West Bengal |
| Category | Agriculture, Rural & Environment |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual, Self Help Groups (SHGs) |
| Benefit Type | Cash Subsidy |
| Nodal Department | Agriculture Department |
| Launch Date | 22 April 2014 |
| Official Portal | wbfms.wb.gov.in |
Benefits
This scheme provides a subsidy of up to 40% of the total financial outlay (TFO). The TFO covers the cost of machinery, transportation, three years of Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC), shed construction, and one year of insurance.
| Parameter | Limit/Detail |
| Minimum TFO | ₹20,00,000 |
| Maximum Subsidy per entrepreneur | ₹16,00,000 |
| Maximum Shed Cost | 5% of TFO |
| Maximum Ancillary Cost | 10% of TFO |
To take part, you should deposit a margin money of at least 25% of the TFO with your bank. The government provides the subsidy as a back-ended payment directly to your bank loan account. Please note that you must purchase machinery only from approved manufacturers listed on the departmental portal.
Eligibility
You are eligible to apply if you are an individual farmer registered under the Krishak Bandhu (New) scheme. Alternatively, registered groups such as SKUS, PACS, FPO, FPC, FIG, or SHGs may also apply.
Key Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old. You should have sufficient land (owned, leased, or hired) to set up the centre. The land must be classified as commercial, bastu, or viti category. Your project cost should meet the minimum threshold of ₹20,00,000.
Exclusions
You cannot apply if you or your spouse have already received a subsidy for farm machinery under any state scheme within the last 4 years. Additionally, employees or retired personnel of the State Government, Government Undertakings, Panchayats, or Municipal bodies are not eligible to receive these benefits.
Application Process
You should follow these steps to manage your online application through the official Farm Mechanisation portal at wbfms.wb.gov.in:
STEP 1 - Go to the official Farm Mechanisation portal at wbfms.wb.gov.in and click on the registration or new user option to create your account.
STEP 2 - Log in using your credentials and select the season 2026-2027. Fill in the application form for establishing a custom hiring centre and submit it online.
STEP 3 - After submitting online, provide a hard copy of your application, acknowledgement receipt, and required documents to the Deputy Director of Agriculture in your district. Note that you have a one-time edit option online before you submit the physical copy.
If you need help, contact the Farm Mechanisation help desk at 18003455178 between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, or write to wbfmshelpdeskwebel@gmail.com.
Documents
Please keep the following documents ready for your application:
- Completed proforma application form, Voter Card (EPIC), and Krishak Bandhu ID.
- AADHAAR card, PAN card, and an updated bank passbook.
- Proof of land ownership or a lease document, a detailed project report, price quotations for your machinery, and a vetted plan for your custom hiring centre shed.
References
View the Official FMS 2026-27 Advertisement
Visit the Official Farm Mechanisation Portal
FAQ's
What is the primary objective of this scheme?
The scheme supports rural entrepreneurs in setting up custom hiring centres, allowing local farmers to rent high-end machinery, which helps improve farm productivity.
Which department oversees this initiative?
The Agriculture Department of the Government of West Bengal handles this scheme.
Who can apply for this subsidy?
Individual farmers registered under the Krishak Bandhu (New) scheme and recognized groups like SHGs, FPOs, or PACS are eligible.
How can I apply for the subsidy?
You can apply online through the official Farm Mechanisation portal at wbfms.wb.gov.in. After applying online, you must submit hard copies of your documents to your District Agricultural Office.
Is there a fee to apply?
No, there are absolutely no fees or charges to apply for this scheme.
What is the minimum age to be eligible?
You should be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
Are government employees eligible?
No, government employees or retired staff from state bodies are excluded from applying.
How is the subsidy paid out?
The subsidy is released directly to your bank loan account via direct benefit transfer once your application is approved and procurement is verified.
What is the subsidy percentage?
You receive a subsidy limited to 40% of the total financial outlay for your centre.