Dimapur, 19 October (MTNews): In a significant development for the agricultural sector in Nagaland, a State-Level Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO) Conclave took place on 19 October at the Angh House in Dimapur. The event, organized under the theme “Transforming Market Linkage through MOVCD-NER,” brought together experts, stakeholders, and FPOs to discuss the Mission of Organic Value Chain Development for the North Eastern Region (MOVCD-NER).
FPOs have emerged as vital players in fostering sustainable agriculture, improving livelihoods, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals involved in farming. These organizations empower small and marginal farmers, providing them with access to better prices, reduced transportation costs, and increased overall productivity, a DIPR report stated.
The conclave welcomed Mhathung Yanthan, the Advisor for Agriculture, as the special guest. He addressed the audience, stressing the crucial role that FPOs play in achieving better returns for farmers. Yanthan highlighted the untapped potential in Nagaland’s agriculture sector and the need to seize the opportunity to bolster the state’s economy.
FPOs were recognized as key drivers of agricultural transformation, with Yanthan underscoring the importance of a well-planned strategy to increase income and produce high-quality agricultural commodities, he said.
The discussions at the conclave delved into the importance of market intelligence and linkages, emphasizing the need for farmers to work collectively to create volume and enhance their income.
Yanthan encouraged FPOs not to limit themselves to local markets but to analyze demand for agricultural products and explore broader marketing opportunities. He urged FPOs to collaborate, share resources, connect, and learn from each other, expressing optimism that with government initiatives, FPOs would contribute to increasing profits for farmers and capturing a larger market share.
K Remphamo Lotha, Joint Director, presented an overview of the Farmer Producer Companies (FPC) under MOVCD-NER. He mentioned that the scheme had been implemented since 2015-16, making this conclave a pioneering event. Lotha outlined various issues and challenges, including the sustainability of FPO/FPC after the program’s completion, the continuity of organic certification, and the need for working capital. He also provided insights into the completion of phases I, II, and III, along with the ongoing process of phase IV. Lotha shared details about contract farming and partnerships with various companies, highlighting the significant market linkages achieved so far.
The conclave showcased success stories from FPCs like Wokha Land Organic Producer Company Ltd, Tseko Spices Producer Company Ltd, and Tribal Pitaya Fruit Producer Company Ltd.
Additionally, the event featured presentations from service providers, and discussions revolved around market potentials for organic products in Nagaland, addressing concerns of FPOs, farmers, and service providers, and planning for the future.
This event attracted participation from experts in the agricultural sector and FPOs from various districts, underlining the collective commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and market linkages in Nagaland