Kerala''s KERA SMART Scheme to Boost Agri-Food MSMEs

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 5 (PTI) Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Wednesday launched the logo of Kerala's KERA SMART scheme, saying the programme would help agri-food MSME to grow through modern technology, green development, market expansion and value-added production.

The KERA SMART (Strengthening and Modernising Agro MSMEs for Resilience and Transformation) scheme is being implemented as part of the KERA (Kerala Climate Resilient Agri Value Chain Modernisation) project of the Agriculture Department with support from the World Bank.

The Chief Minister said the scheme has been designed to strengthen agri-food MSMEs across the state and create more opportunities for growth by encouraging the adoption of modern technologies and sustainable practices.


The project aims to increase value addition and processing capacity for agricultural produce while ensuring benefits for both farmers and entrepreneurs. It also seeks to promote the modern processing of farm produce for domestic and export markets.

Under the scheme, eligible agri-food MSMEs capable of expanding their market reach will receive financial and technical support. Grants of up to Rs 1.5 crore will be provided to each enterprise.

The scheme is open to MSME units that have been operating in Kerala for at least three years and have strong growth potential. It targets small and medium enterprises engaged in the manufacturing and services sectors. Micro enterprises with investments of more than Rs 50 lakh in machinery and equipment will also be considered.

Industries Minister P K Kunhalikutty and Agriculture Minister T Siddique attended the function.