Page 73 - Millets Natures NutriGrain

Functions of FPOs

1. Group Formation and Capacity Building: FPOs facilitate
the formation of farmer groups, often organized around specific

crops or regions. They provide training and capacity-building
programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of their members.
This includes training in modern agricultural practices, financial

literacy, and marketing techniques.
2. Input Procurement and Distribution: FPOs negotiate with
input suppliers to secure quality seeds, fertilizers, pesticides,
and machinery at competitive prices. They then distribute these
inputs to their members, ensuring that farmers have access to

essential resources required for farming.
3. Production Planning and Management: FPOs assist farmers
in crop planning and management. They guide the selection of

suitable crops, planting schedules, and crop rotation practices.
This helps in optimizing yields and reducing production risks.
4. Market Linkages and Price Negotiation: FPOs play a
pivotal role in connecting farmers with markets. They establish
relationships with traders, wholesalers, retailers, and processors,

negotiating fair prices for farmers’ produce. This eliminates the
need for farmers to rely on intermediaries who often exploit
them.

5. Processing and Value Addition: Some FPOs engage in
processing and value addition activities. They set up processing
units for the grading, sorting, and packaging of agricultural
products. This adds value to the produce and allows farmers to
access higher-paying markets.

6. Financial Services: FPOs assist members in accessing credit

73 Millets: 2023