Page 77 - Millets Natures NutriGrain

practices, purchase quality seeds and inputs, and expand their millet
cultivation.

3. Mitigating Risks and Enhancing Resilience

Climate change poses a significant risk to agriculture, and millets

have proven to be more resilient to adverse climatic conditions than
some other major cereals. FPOs play a critical role in helping farmers
adapt to changing weather patterns by promoting drought-resistant

millet varieties and water-efficient farming practices. This enhances
the resilience of farming communities to climate-related challenges.

Challenges in Millet Production

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in India play a crucial role
in empowering small and marginal farmers by providing them with
collective bargaining power, access to resources, and enhanced
market opportunities. However, FPOs face several challenges in their
operations and growth. Here’s an elaboration on the challenges you

mentioned:

1. Lack of Awareness:

- Among Farmers: Many small and marginal farmers, who are the

primary target group for FPOs, lack awareness about the benefits and
functioning of FPOs. They may not understand how joining an FPO
can improve their income and livelihoods.

- Among Stakeholders: Even among government agencies,

financial institutions, and development organizations, there can be
a lack of awareness about the potential of FPOs, which can result in
insufficient support and funding.

77 Millets: 2023