Page 59 - Mann Ki Baat - English

The FPO plans to expand the number of farmers to over 2,000 by next
year. The organisation provides farmers with essential inputs such as
seeds and fertilisers, as well as training in modern farming techniques.
By facilitating direct market access, the FPO ensures farmers receive
fair prices for their produce, resulting in incomes that have doubled or
even tripled. This success has been made possible with the support of the
Odisha government and the Government of India.

I started farming on 50 decimals of land, but with
the FPO's support, I expanded to 17 acres. Earlier,
selling tomatoes was a big challenge. Now, traders
come directly to buy from us through the FPO.
I am a board member of the FPO, and now traders
regularly purchase produce, such as tomatoes,
directly from us. This has streamlined the process,
ensuring fair prices and better market access for all
farmers involved.

-Dhananjaya Naik, Dhamanpur village, Kalahandi, Odisha

I used to grow cotton on 2.5 acres but earned
only ₹1 lakh a year after expenses. Krishna
Chandra Nag advised me to switch to vegetable
farming. At first, I was hesitant, but when I saw
the benefits, I decided to invest ₹2-4 lakhs.
This year, I earned nearly 10 times more than I did
with cotton. The FPO markets and sells our produce,
and traders now come to our doorstep. Farming has
become much more profitable and less stressful for
me.

-Dinesh Kumar Sahu, Sancher village, Kalahandi, Odisha

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