Role of FPOs in Organic Farming Skill Development of Farmers in Marathwada

Region

Nagnath Bembde, Research Scholar, SRTM University, Latur Sub-Centre,

Mail:bembde.nagesh@gmail.com
Abhishek Gill, Asst. Professor, SSBES’ Institute of Technology & Management, Nanded.
Mail: gillabhishek@gmail.com

Abstract

Organic Farming is an alternative agricultural system which avoids the use of synthetic inputs
such as fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, feed additives etc. and to the maximum extent feasible rely
upon crop rotations, crop residues, animal manures, off-farm organic waste, mineral grade rock
additives and biological system of nutrient mobilization and plant protection. Farmers, Food
processors, Exporters, Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) and Non-Government Organisations
(NGO) are focusing organic farming due to increased consciousness about health hazards due to
contamination caused by chemical or synthetic inputs. Organic farming is the sustainable method of
farming which is organic farming system in India is not new and is being followed from ancient time
but gathered popularity recently in India due to favorable agro-climatic conditions and biodiversity.
FPO is a good alternative for the small and medium farmers. FPO can help to enhance the value of
agricultural produce through various ways. FPOs are implementing contract farming for specific
agricultural produce in high quantity which increases farmers bargaining power. The study found that
the FPOs are taking initiatives in providing training to the farmers through contract farming. The study
addresses the initiatives taken by FPOs in skill development of the farmers for organic farming. The
data is obtained from FPOs & different Govt. Agencies involved in providing training to the farmers
who are implementing organic farming methods for cultivation. The Researcher had an interaction with
different FPOs regarding improvement in skills of organic farming by standard methods and
techniques. The above said study detailed the pattern and performance of FPOs in India which focuses
on functionality, dealing with the field issues. They are providing training of new methods and
techniques of organic farming which is helping farmers in implementing innovative farming methods
and will be able to increase yield through organic farming. FPO is helping these farmers not only in
improving their skills and innovative methods employed in cultivation but also are capable to increasing
their bargaining power. Such FPOs are integrating these benefits into the final value chain with the
objectives of enhancing incomes and yield.

Keywords: FPOs, Organic Farming, Sustainable Farming.