Odisha FPO Conclave 2024: 34 Agribusiness Companies Sign MoUs to Strengthen FPO Ecosystem in Odisha

The Odisha FPO Conclave 2024 witnessed a significant stride towards fortifying the market ecosystem for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in the region. With the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 34 Agribusiness Companies, the event aimed to bolster marketing assistance crucial for the FPOs in Odisha. The Department of Agriculture & Farmers Empowerment in Odisha collaborated with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) to initiate a transformative journey for FPOs. The partnership intends to enhance market access, align with governmental initiatives, and introduce a Digital Governance framework to evaluate FPO performance effectively.

Organized by the Department of Horticulture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha, in conjunction with the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, the Odisha FPO Conclave 2024 served as a nexus for diverse stakeholders. The event welcomed policymakers, implementing agencies, financial institutions, agribusiness players, and FPO representatives to strategize on enhancing market penetration, positioning Odisha as the agribusiness hub of the eastern Indian region.

Empowering Dialogue and Engagement

Palladium Consulting India Private Limited played a pivotal role as the technical and knowledge partner for the Conclave. The event, envisioned as a state forum, facilitated discussions among ecosystem stakeholders to expedite the business transformation of FPOs. Over 500 participants from FPOs across 30 districts of the state actively engaged in the Conclave's proceedings.

Insights from Key Figures

Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, IAS, the Principal Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, set the tone for the Conclave by providing insights into Odisha's agricultural landscape. Emphasizing the necessity for collective marketing and value addition for farmers, Dr. Padhee underscored the pivotal role of private partnerships in FPO growth.

The Vice-Chancellor of OUAT underscored collaborative efforts between the university and the Department of Horticulture. These efforts focus on bolstering FPO support through direct engagement with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and involving Agribusiness Management students in research initiatives aimed at enhancing FPO ecosystems.

The Conclave welcomed officials from prominent institutions such as NABARD, ORMAS, NAFED, and SBI, who interacted with FPOs during various technical sessions. Sector experts and leaders from renowned organizations like PRADAN, IPFRI, and Digital Green, among others, actively participated in the Conclave, offering valuable insights and expertise.