India’s growing stature as a global farm export powerhouse was celebrated at the 9th edition of the FPO Conclave and Agri Awards 2025, held in Delhi, under the theme "Reinventing Food Production for a Resilient Future." The event brought together over 100 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) from across the country, showcasing their pivotal role in revolutionizing Indian agriculture. With Indian farm exports reaching an impressive $53 billion in the financial year 2023-24, as per Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) data, the Conclave underscored how government-backed FPO initiatives are transforming rural economies.
Farmers at the event praised the government's FPO Mission, emphasizing its role in empowering smallholder farmers and reshaping agricultural practices. A noteworthy highlight was the significant number of women-led FPOs, showcasing a progressive shift towards gender inclusivity in the sector.
Dr. Lavnya R. Mundyar, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of Agriculture Insurance Company (AIC) of India Limited, addressed the gathering and emphasized the transformative power of FPOs. She described them as both a movement and a tool for women’s empowerment, highlighting the resilience of the agricultural sector despite its inherent risks. She emphasized that all crops are now covered under government-supported insurance schemes, urging FPOs to take full advantage of these initiatives.
Highlighting the significance of exports, Aarti Pandey, Deputy General Manager of Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC), spoke about initiatives designed to protect exporters from potential losses. She shared examples of how ECGC’s schemes have enabled farmers to sustain their export businesses even in challenging times, fostering confidence and continuity.
The event concluded with the prestigious Agri Awards 2025, honoring 34 FPOs across 10 categories, including Outstanding Contribution in Agriculture by Women FPO, Excellence in AgriTech, Outstanding Agri StartUp, and Innovative Agricultural Practices. Award-winning Farmer Producer Organizations came from diverse states, including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the nationwide impact of the Farmer Producer Organization movement.
The 9th FPO Conclave and Agri Awards 2025 not only celebrated the achievements of Indian farmers but also reinforced the vision of a resilient and sustainable agricultural future.
As India continues to lead in farm exports, the event underscored the critical role of FPOs and government support in driving this success story.
