Challenges for agricultural startups in Chhattisgarh: An empirical analysis

Chhattisgarh has a number of challenges for agricultural startups, impeding their growth and sustainability. The issues, which include financial support (debt burden and increased cost of capital), technological bottlenecks, both marketing and HR-related adversities, targeted government policy supports, and red-tape- dominating administrative procedures, necessitate tailored assistance from various stakeholders, including industry organisations. Resolving these challenges by providing adequate funds, guidance on technology and marketing strategies, proper human resource development, and seamless administrative procedures can significantly improve the success of the region's agribusiness startups. This study explores these challenges using data collected from 11 agricultural startups, which were part of the 160 registered agricultural startups in the state. It identifies the core difficulties and proposes policy measures to enhance the agricultural startup ecosystem in Chhattisgarh. Opportunities for growth through government support, technological adoption, and market expansion are also discussed. The findings suggest that a strategy involving financial support, technological advancement, market access, capacity building, infrastructure development, regulatory streamlining, and community-building is essential for fostering innovation and sustainable growth in the agricultural sector.