Parliament Question: Outcome of BHARATI

**Executive Summary** This document is an answer from the Minister of Commerce and Industry to a parliamentary question regarding the BHARATI initiative, launched by APEDA in September 2025. It outlines the initiative's objectives to support agri-food and agri-tech startups to enhance agri exports. Applications were accepted until November 10th, 2025, and the initiative aims to select 100 startups for a pilot cohort. **Key Points / Main Content** * **BHARATI Initiative Overview:** * BHARATI stands for Bharat's Hub for Agritech, Resilience, Advancement and Incubation for Export Enablement. * The initiative is designed to support startups in the agri-food and agri-tech sectors to boost agri exports. * It complements existing industry and government-led incubation programs. * It aims to address export challenges related to product development, value addition, quality assurance, perishability, wastage, and logistics. * The goal is to deliver scalable, cost-effective solutions to enhance India's global competitiveness. * **Application and Selection Process:** * Launched in September 2025, with applications accepted until November 10th, 2025. * Focus areas for applications include High-Value and Innovative Agri-Food Products, Technology-Led Solutions for Export Enablement, and solutions for addressing SPS risks and compliance barriers. * A total of 100 startups will be selected for the pilot cohort under a structured acceleration program. * **Ensuring Diverse Participation:** * APEDA engaged with State and National institutions, incubation networks, and industries. * Awareness programs and outreach sessions were conducted nationwide, including in Tamil Nadu. * A dedicated website (https://apeda.gov.in/bharati/) has been created for wider dissemination. * **Monitoring and Evaluation:** * Defined performance indicators will track export value, innovation, and job creation. * Selected startups will receive guidance to prepare a 12-month export plan. * Progress on high-value, innovative products will be evaluated based on market acceptance and commercialization outcomes. * Baseline parameters such as revenue, export turnover, and employment numbers will be monitored throughout the program period. **Impact Analysis** **Startups in Agri-Food and Agri-Tech Sectors** * **Impact:** They will benefit from support to enhance agri exports, access to incubation programs, and guidance in addressing export-related challenges. The acceleration program will help them develop a 12-month export plan. * **Action Required:** The startups should actively participate in the acceleration program, utilize the resources and guidance provided, and focus on achieving measurable outcomes in terms of export value, innovation, and job creation. **APEDA** * **Impact:** APEDA is responsible for implementing and managing the BHARATI initiative, including the selection of startups, providing support and guidance, and monitoring the program's performance. * **Action Required:** APEDA should ensure the effective implementation of the initiative, provide necessary resources and guidance to the selected startups, and monitor their progress against the defined performance indicators. **Small and Marginal Farmers, Rural Enterprises, and FPOs** * **Impact:** These stakeholders are expected to benefit from the initiative through increased participation in agri-food exports, improved access to technology and innovation, and enhanced market opportunities. * **Action Required:** These stakeholders should engage with APEDA and the selected startups to explore opportunities for collaboration, access technology solutions, and enhance their participation in agri-food exports.

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