Odisha’s FPO (Farmer Producer Organisation) has recently made headlines by exporting 1 tonne of locally-grown fruit, marking a significant achievement in the state’s agricultural sector. This success has brought much-needed recognition to the hard work and dedication of the farmers in Odisha, who have long been struggling to make a good living from their produce. The export of 1 tonne of fruit not only showcases the potential of Odisha’s agricultural produce on a global platform but also brings a 40-62% jump in realisation for the farmers, thus boosting their income and livelihood.
The FPO in Odisha was formed in 2015 with the aim to empower small and marginal farmers by providing them with a collective platform to market their produce and access better opportunities. The organisation comprises of 6,000 farmers from 6 districts of Odisha, namely Angul, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, and Sundargarh. Since its formation, the FPO has been working tirelessly to uplift the agricultural sector in the state and bring sustainable development for the farmers.
This significant export of 1 tonne of locally-grown fruit is a result of the collective efforts and perseverance of the farmers in the FPO. The fruit, which includes varieties like mango, guava, and custard apple, was sourced from the farmers and then processed and packaged by the FPO to meet the international standards. This not only ensures high-quality produce but also increases the market value of the fruit, thus leading to a 40-62% increase in realisation for the farmers.
The FPO has set a great example for other farmer organisations in the country by focusing on the value addition of the produce. The organisation has also been successful in bridging the gap between the farmers and the market, thereby eliminating the middlemen who often exploit the farmers. By directly exporting their produce, the farmers in Odisha have not only received a better price for their fruit but also gained valuable experience in international trade.
The export of 1 tonne of fruit is just the beginning of a promising journey for the FPO in Odisha. With the support of the government and various other agencies, the organisation aims to increase its export volume in the coming years. This will not only lead to a boost in the income of the farmers but also create new job opportunities in the processing and packaging sector. The success of the FPO will also encourage other farmers in the state to come together and form similar organisations, thus bringing a positive change in the agricultural landscape of Odisha.
The export of locally-grown fruit by the FPO is also a step towards promoting the rich and diverse produce of Odisha on a global level. The state has a favourable climate and soil conditions that make it suitable for the cultivation of a variety of fruits and vegetables. However, due to lack of proper marketing and processing facilities, the farmers were unable to realise the full potential of their produce. But with the FPO’s efforts, this is slowly changing, and Odisha’s agricultural produce is gaining recognition and demand in the international market.
The success of the FPO is a testament to the fact that with collective efforts and determination, anything is possible. The organisation has not only provided a platform for the farmers to showcase their produce but also equipped them with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete in the global market. The success story of Odisha’s FPO is an inspiration for other states to follow and replicate a similar model for the betterment of their farmers.
In conclusion, the export of 1 tonne of locally-grown fruit by Odisha’s FPO is a significant achievement for the state’s agricultural sector. It not only brings recognition and exposure to the farmers but also increases their income and livelihood. The FPO has set an example of how collective efforts and value addition can lead to a positive change in the lives of farmers. With the government’s support and the FPO’s determination, Odisha’s agricultural sector is on the path of sustainable development and growth.
