What are the common mistakes that get AIF applications rejected or delayed?

Most AIF problems are not about the scheme, they are about a weak application or an unviable project. The common pitfalls are these. First, a thin or unrealistic project report, vague costs, no proper quotations, and rosy income projections that the bank does not believe. Second, an unviable project, especially a single-season asset like a crop-specific cold store or pack house with no plan to keep it busy the rest of the year. Third, unclear land or lease, missing site papers or a short lease that does not match the loan tenure. Fourth, weak margin money, not having your own contribution ready, since AIF is a loan, not a full grant. Fifth, picking a bank branch that has never processed an AIF case, which causes long delays out of unfamiliarity. Sixth, trying to double-claim the same cost from two subsidy schemes, which gets disallowed. Seventh, not following up, applications stall when nobody pushes them through the portal and bank steps. To avoid these, invest in a realistic project report, prove the asset will be used year-round, keep land and KYC clean, arrange your margin, choose a bank that knows the scheme or use an experienced promoting agency, and follow up steadily. If the project genuinely earns enough to repay, approval is usually a matter of paperwork and persistence. Confirm current requirements on the official AIF agriinfra portal or with your bank. This is general information and not financial advice.