Odisha 2024 FPO Conclave Marks Significant Strides in Farmer Empowerment

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha 2024 Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) Conclave, inaugurated by Ranendra Pratap Swain, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Fisheries and Animal Resource Development, highlighted the transformative role of FPOs in empowering farmers and boosting rural economies.

The Chief Minister of Odisha issued guidelines on May 3, 2022, aiming to provide comprehensive opportunities and facilities to Farmer Producer Organisations. During the financial year 2020-23, the State Government collectively allocated Rs. 1000 crores in various schemes to promote and strengthen FPOs, benefiting approximately 3 lakh farmers, stated Minister Sri Swain.

Addressing the conclave at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Minister Swain emphasized that FPOs act as catalysts for rural economic development, generating employment opportunities in rural areas. Since the announcement of the Farmer Producer Organisation Policy by the State Government, the Agriculture Department has taken effective steps to strengthen and build the FPO movement. Given that 92% of the total farmer families in the state are small and marginal farmers, the formation of FPOs brings farmers together, enhances their skills, capacity, and bargaining power.

Minister Sri Swain reiterated the State Government’s commitment to agriculture development and farmers’ empowerment, highlighting a 17% increase in this year’s agriculture budget compared to the previous year.

Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhi, Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, mentioned that the FPO scheme has been implemented in the state since 2018. The Department launched the ‘Support to FPOs’ State Scheme to empower Farmer Producer Organisations. According to the NABARD report, the annual income of FPOs is increasing at a rate of 13.4%.

Prof. Pravat Kumar Raul, Vice-Chancellor, OUAT, acknowledged the transformation in the state’s agricultural sector. The Center of Excellence established for FPOs under OUAT, with the support of the Department of Agriculture and Farmer Empowerment, has made FPOs more competitive.

Rohit Kumar Lenka, Director of Horticulture, provided an overview of the status of FPOs in Odisha in his welcome address. During the conclave, MoUs were signed with 30 agribusiness companies, financial institutions, and capacity-building institutions to provide necessary support to farmers in the state. Minister Swain felicitated implementing agencies like NABARD, NAFED, SFAC, NCDC & FDRVC. Dr. Prasanna Jeet Mishra, Dean Extension, proposed the vote of thanks, marking a significant stride in the collective effort towards farmer empowerment and rural development.