Is MIDH subsidy paid upfront or do I pay first and get it back later?

It depends on the component, and this is important for your cash planning. Many MIDH components, especially the bigger post harvest and protected cultivation units, are back ended, meaning you spend the money, complete and get the work verified, and then the subsidy comes to you afterward, often through your bank if there is a loan. Some components, particularly drip irrigation under micro irrigation and certain field level activities, are run so that you pay only your own share and the subsidy portion is settled to the empanelled vendor directly, so you never handle the full amount. For new orchards the assistance is staggered over years and tied to plant survival. So before you start, ask specifically: for this component, do I pay the full cost and get reimbursed, or do I pay only my share to an empanelled vendor. The arrangement varies by state and component, so confirm the payment mode on your state horticulture portal or with the district horticulture office, and arrange working capital or a loan if it is back ended so the project does not stall mid way.