What is the geographic nature of Agro-Processing Clusters (APCs) under SAMPADA?

• A. Defined geographic area
• B. It is a cluster-based approach within a defined geographic area
• C. International zones
• D. Virtual only, with no physical infrastructure

Answer: (B)

APCs under SAMPADA are designed as clusters—groups of agro-processing units and related facilities that are co-located within a defined geographic area to create a concentrated, interconnected ecosystem. This setup enables shared infrastructure such as cold storage, testing labs, common processing facilities, and logistics, which lowers costs and improves efficiency. The emphasis is on the synergies that come from having multiple units operate together in a specific region, strengthening backward linkages with farmers and forward linkages to markets. It isn’t about international zones or a purely virtual setup; physical infrastructure within a defined area is essential. So, the best description is that APCs are a cluster-based approach within a defined geographic area.