The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the Small Farmers Agri-Business Association (SFAC), and the Common Service Centre (CSC) organized a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) Mela at INA Market, Delhi Haat. The event saw participation from major FPOs representing various regions and offered a glimpse of the diverse array of products from over 20 FPOs.
The FPO Mela was not just an exhibition but an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural essence of farm-fresh products. The concept of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) has been pivotal in transforming the agricultural landscape in India. These are essentially groups of farmers who engage in commercial activities related to farming and crop production within their respective regions.
They offer farmers substantial discounts on wholesale prices for essential agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, equipment, and manure. Additionally, they play a significant role in helping farmers bring their finished crops and produce to the market, thereby contributing to the overall rural economy.
To enhance accessibility to markets for farmers, the government has been actively establishing FPOs in every block across the country. Currently, more than 2,165 FPOs comprising 8 lakh farmers are engaged in business activities through the online platform, ONDC.
Sanjay Rakesh, Managing Director & CEO of CSC SPV, highlighted the organization's commitment to improving the lives of rural citizens. He emphasized that agriculture plays a central role in their initiatives and that CSCs have an extensive presence in remote areas, offering services such as tele-consultation, crop insurance, e-veterinary, Kisan Credit Card, and PM Kisan schemes to farmers. The organization is actively participating in the formation of FPOs across the country, with Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) playing a significant role in empowering farmers.
CSCs have been instrumental in providing rural citizens with easy access to various government services, including caste, income, domicile, character certificates, and employment registration. Their reach, extending to over 5.5 lakh CSCs in remote areas, has brought about significant changes in the lives of people through e-governance.
In India, there are an estimated 12 crore small and marginal farmers, typically owning less than 1.1 hectares of land. These farmers require access to both production and post-production functions, including technology, quality inputs, seed production, farming machinery, value-added products, processing, credit, investment, and, most importantly, markets. The formation of FPOs is a critical step to address these challenges and increase farmers' income.
FPO Mela not only highlighted the benefits of joining FPOs but also educated farmers about accessing FPO services. The government's focus on promoting FPOs is a welcome step that promises to empower farmers and boost the rural economy, ensuring a brighter future for small and marginal farmers in India.
