1. What is this item?

This refers to the surrounding ecosystem of social norms, government regulations, service availability, infrastructure support, and access to key networks that can influence the success of farm development. It includes community dynamics, panchayat or local authority cooperation, availability of labor, roads, and proximity to agri-markets or suppliers.

2. How is the quantity estimated?

It’s not a “quantity” in the typical sense but more of a qualitative mapping or checklist that evaluates presence or absence of key support systems:

o Road connectivity

o Proximity to nearest town or mandi

o Access to electricity and water lines

o Local labor pool availability

o Distance to service providers (tractor, fencing, borewell, etc.)

o Existing rapport with panchayat or landowners’ association

3. What are the cost components for this item?

While not always involving direct costs, indirect investments may include:

o Liaison costs (govt. permissions, land mutation, etc.)

o Transport logistics during setup

o Hiring local liaison or consultant

o Community engagement efforts or goodwill expenses

4. What are the going rates and how is the per unit cost calculated?

It’s typically an upfront planning or setup cost and often clubbed under “project initiation expenses.” For small farms, this might range from ₹20,000–₹50,000. For larger farms or remote locations, it could go up to ₹1–2 lakh depending on challenges. Rate is context-specific and based on number of stakeholders, local resistance/support, and negotiation or facilitation needs.

Note; When land scouting is done by the owner then these details are already captured by the first owner, as the process requires at least 4-5 visits and that is good enough to get a hang of all this vital and critical information.