How Are Over 5.2 Million Farmers Benefiting from FPOs? Insights from Shivraj Singh Chouhan (IANS Interview)
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Synopsis
Discover how over 5.2 million farmers in India are gaining financial benefits and increased productivity through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan shares insights on the impact of FPOs on the agricultural landscape and the government's commitment to protecting farmers' interests.
Key Takeaways
- Over 5.2 million farmers are linked to FPOs.
- FPOs help achieve better prices for agricultural produce.
- The total turnover of FPOs has surpassed Rs 15,282 crore.
- The government plans to create 10,000 FPOs.
- Strict measures are in place against counterfeit products affecting farmers.
New Delhi, Oct 12 (NationPress) More than 5.2 million farmers in India are now linked with Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), enabling them to achieve better prices for their crops and enhance productivity, according to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. In a captivating interview with news agency IANS, Chouhan highlighted, “There are currently over 1,100 FPOs across the nation, connecting more than 5.2 million farmers.”
“Their cumulative turnover has surpassed Rs 15,000 crore. These FPOs are instrumental in assisting farmers to secure better prices for their products while enhancing their overall productivity. Our goal is to extend this support to even more farmers,” the minister remarked.
FPOs are collective groups formed by farmers to provide assistance to small and marginal producers in various ways.
They empower farmers through bulk purchasing of inputs, bolstering their bargaining power, and guaranteeing improved prices for their products.
“FPOs are significantly contributing to better prices and enhanced productivity for farmers. We aim to broaden this model to reach even more farmers,” Chouhan stated.
In the Union Budget of February 2020, the government announced plans to create 10,000 FPOs nationwide, with a budget allocation of ₹6,865 crore over the next five years.
According to statistics, by the fiscal year 2025, 340 FPOs achieved sales exceeding Rs 10 crore, while over 1,100 FPOs recorded sales exceeding Rs 1 crore each. Their total turnover reached Rs 15,282 crore.
When asked about the government’s strategy against counterfeit fertilizers and low-quality seeds, the Agriculture Minister stated, “Fake fertilizers, substandard seeds, and counterfeit pesticides are a betrayal of farmers.”
“We view this as a serious offense. Consequently, the government has implemented strict measures against offenders, including factory sealing and extensive raids. This campaign will persist, as safeguarding farmers’ interests is our paramount concern,” the Union Minister added.
Point of View
It is evident that the establishment of FPOs marks a significant step towards empowering farmers. By enhancing their bargaining power and ensuring fair prices, the government is not only addressing the immediate economic challenges faced by farmers but also promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The ongoing efforts against counterfeit products highlight a commitment to safeguarding farmers' interests, ensuring a brighter future for India's agricultural sector.
NationPress
12/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)?
FPOs are collective entities formed by farmers to support small and marginal producers through various means such as bulk purchasing, enhanced bargaining power, and improved pricing for their produce.
How many farmers are currently linked to FPOs in India?
As of now, over 5.2 million farmers in India are associated with FPOs.
What is the government's plan for FPOs?
The government aims to establish 10,000 FPOs across the country with a budget of ₹6,865 crore over five years to extend support to more farmers.
What is the turnover of FPOs in India?
The combined turnover of FPOs has exceeded Rs 15,282 crore.
How is the government combating counterfeit fertilizers?
The government has initiated strict actions against counterfeit fertilizers and low-quality seeds, including factory sealing and large-scale raids.
