Page 81 - IMDR JOURNAL 2023-24

IMDR’s Journal of Management Development & Research 2023-24

Meeting food safety and quality standards in export or higher value markets can be a challenge for
smallholders. Gender differences in access to resources, credit and decision-making in agriculture can further

limit opportunities for female farmers. Local practices, traditions and social norms can influence the roles and
opportunities of farmers and some groups face greater challenges than others.

To address these challenges, multiple stakeholders, including governments, NGOs and international

organizations, are working to provide support, training and resources to farmers. In addition, promoting
sustainable and inclusive agricultural practices, strengthening market linkages and improving rural

infrastructure can help alleviate some of the challenges faced by farmers. Farmer Producer Organizations
(FPOs) in India assume a significant part in engaging little and peripheral farmers by advancing aggregate

homesteads, further developing admittance to assets and further developing business sector linkages. To
provide training and capacity building programs to FPO members on modern agricultural practices, sustainable

farming methods and effective management of natural resources. Provide financial literacy and management

training to FPO managers to ensure transparent and efficient financial management. Facilitate access to FPO
credit and financial services to invest in infrastructure, technology and working capital.

Facilitation of FPOs and access to government schemes to support the purchase of agricultural machinery and

equipment. Create strong market linkages for FPOs by connecting them with agribusinesses, processors,
exporters and retail chains. Help FPOs brand and market their products, increase market awareness and ensure

fair pricing. Urge FPOs to participate in esteem added exercises, for example, handling, bundling and quality
control to enhance their farming items.

6. Findings:

 Researchers have found that the large fluctuations in market price are due to the seasonality problem,

especially during the off-season when the market price drops drastically and member farmers move away
from the FPO because of these price fluctuations.

 Researchers have found that the FPO was unable to provide adequate facilities like warehouses, availability

of machinery, fodder facilities etc.
 Researchers have found that the FPOs are trying to get participate or involved in the government schemes

like equity grant scheme, credit guarantee scheme, equity grant sanctioned under central Sector Scheme

but facing some issues due to credit.
 The researchers also found that the total number of mobilized farmers and the total number of registered

farmers were not actively participated to run the FPOs smoothly.

7. Conclusion:
The issues and challenges confronting FPOs include limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure,

market access barriers, regulatory constraints, and climate-related risks. Additionally, capacity gaps in
governance, management, and technology adoption pose significant hurdles for FPOs. To overcome these