Nagaland is transforming market linkage of farmers through MOVCD-NER
Guwahati: Livelihood of Nagaland farmers to get transformed as the state is getting ready to transform its agricultural sector through better market linkages.
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), which are poised to reshape the agricultural landscape and enhance the quality of life for those involved in farming are recognized as a pivotal driver of agricultural transformation. FPOs are instrumental in making agriculture sustainable, uplifting livelihoods, and bolstering productivity. These organizations facilitate small and marginal farmers and producers in accessing better prices, reducing transportation costs, and ultimately improving overall agricultural output.
As of now, the states of Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura collectively host 341 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). To support and further expand this transformative movement, the Government of India has launched a Central sector Scheme, committing substantial resources to form and promote 10,000 new FPOs nationwide, with a budgetary allocation of Rs. 6865 Crore.
A recent milestone in this endeavor was the Regional Screening Committee Meeting under the aegis of the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) for Nagaland. During this meeting, proposals for the sanction of Equity Grants were considered for seven FPOs in Nagaland under the central scheme.
Across India, there are approximately 6,000 FPOs that have been established through various government initiatives. The average number of members in these organizations hovers around 470, cumulatively serving a substantial count of 1.5 million farmer-members across different states.
Underlining the significance of this transformative movement, a State Level Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs) Conclave was held on October 19, with the theme 'Transforming Market Linkage through MOVCD-NER' (Mission of Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern region).
Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan, graced the event as a special guest, underscoring the potential of Nagaland and the compelling need to seize opportunities that could bolster the state's economy. He emphasized the importance of market intelligence and linkages as areas ripe for innovation. Yanthan encouraged FPOs to explore not just local markets but also to analyze and identify broader marketing opportunities for agricultural products.
Yanthan urged FPOs to collaborate, share resources, connect, and learn from each other, expressing optimism that, in synergy with government initiatives, FPOs would contribute to enhancing farmers' profits and securing a larger share of the market.
K Remphamo Lotha, Joint Director, presented an insightful overview of the status of Farmer Producer Companies (FPC) under MOVCD-NE. He highlighted the various challenges faced, including the sustainability of FPO/FPC post-program completion, the continuity of organic certification, and the need for working capital. Lotha also shared details on the progress of phases I, II, and III, as well as ongoing developments in phase IV.
Notable achievements in contract farming and partnerships with various companies were highlighted, along with the significant market linkages that have been established.
The event witnessed active participation from sector experts and FPOs from various districts, setting the stage for a new era of agricultural development and economic empowerment in Nagaland.
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