Which criteria are used to select and prioritize SAMPADA projects?

• A. Detailed Project Report, viability, potential employment, backward/forward linkages, and alignment with policy priorities
• B. Land area, color of branding, number of farmers
• C. Random assignment
• D. Only available budget

Answer: (A)

The decision to select and prioritize SAMPADA projects rests on evaluating a solid package of criteria that together show a project’s feasibility, impact, and fit with government goals. A Detailed Project Report provides a complete roadmap, detailing technical design, implementation steps, timelines, and the financials and risks involved. Viability focuses on whether the project makes economic sense—whether it can generate sufficient returns, sustain operations, and be financially sustainable over time. The potential for employment is a key measure of social and economic impact, indicating how many jobs the project could create or support in the local area. Backward and forward linkages look at how the project integrates with farmers, suppliers, processors, and markets, strengthening the value chain and ensuring reliable inputs and viable outlets for the end products. Alignment with policy priorities ensures the project supports broader government objectives, such as promoting processing capacity, regional development, export potential, or inclusive growth.

Other options miss these essential dimensions. Simply considering land area, branding color, or the number of farmers doesn’t address viability or systemic impact. Random assignment wouldn’t ensure feasible or meaningful outcomes, and focusing only on the available budget ignores whether the project will deliver sustainable benefits.