GOOD PRACTICES 56-Farmer Producer Company as a Pathway to Change for Women Farmers in the Highlands of Odisha
Small and marginal farmers constitute about 83% of the farming community in the Indian state of Odisha. According to the National Sample Survey (NSS) Report 2019, the average monthly income per agricultural household is INR 5,380 from crop production and rearing of small ruminants (REF). The average size of marginal land holding is 0.5 hectares. In order to improve the village economy, enhance agricultural productivity and increase the income of farmers it was necessary to collectivize the farmers in this area so as to realize the potential of their resources and help them benefit from the economies of scale. In November 2018, the Government of Odisha initiated a project named ‘Agriculture Production Cluster (APC)’, which aimed to empower one lakh women farmers by doubling their income and ensuring economic sustainability. This was a collaborative effort by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Department of Mission Shakti, Bharat Rural Livelihoods Foundation (BRLF), Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), Professional Assistance for Development Action (PRADAN), and 16 partner CSOs (Civil Society Organisations). Both BRLF and BMGF are supporting the expenses of CSO partners.