20.08.25

SIDHKOFED Hosts State-Level Workshop on the Role of Farmer Producer Organisations in Strengthening Jharkhand's Agricultural and Forest Economy

Sidho-Kanho Agriculture and Forest Produce State Co-operative Federation Limited (SIDHKOFED) organised a state-level workshop in Ranchi on 20 August 2025. The workshop focused on the role of the Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in strengthening Jharkhand's agricultural and forest-produce economy.

The event convened senior government officials, including the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Secretary of SIDHKOFED, Director of Agriculture from the Jharkhand Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Co-operative, and General Manager of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). It also brought together FPO representatives from across Jharkhand and start-up organisations, including Farmart Service Private Limited and Terviva.

Market Linkage Achievements

The workshop highlighted significant progress in establishing direct market linkages. In 2025, SIDHKOFED entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Terviva, facilitating the sale of 10.5 metric tonnes of karanj (Indian beech). Discussions with AAK India Private Limited (AAKIPL) for sal seeds are ongoing although a formal MoU is yet to be finalised. Initial conversations with Farmart have begun, with plans to establish an MoU for agricultural-produce marketing.

Producer Company Model: Evidence from the Field

The workshop featured presentations on the successful formation of producer companies (PCs) across multiple Indian states. These presentations demonstrated the effectiveness of rapid PC formation followed by sales within two months, drawing on experiences in Jharkhand and Odisha. The PC model showcases the potential for quick turnaround in community enterprise development, improved price realisation, and strengthened producer bargaining power.

The workshop outcomes set out a clear pathway for strengthening FPOs and increasing market access across Jharkhand.