Farmer-Producer Organisations: Catalysts of Prosperity, Progress and Empowerment for Farmers
Price: ₹ 500
Author: Sasikanth R. and S. Ravichandran
Author Address: Research Scholar and Associate Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram- 608 002 (Tamil Nadu)
Keywords: Agricultural collective action, farmer empowerment, FPO, rural economic development.
JEL Codes: O13, Q12, Q13, Q18.
Abstract
India's agricultural sector, comprising mostly small and marginal farmers, faces ongoing challenges, including restricted access to inputs, credit, and markets. Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs) offer a promising collective model for addressing these issues. This study compared 150 members and 150 non-members of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in Tamil Nadu to assess the impact of FPO membership on farmer empowerment. Results indicated that FPO members had higher income, better access to resources, and stronger decision-making skills. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) showed that education, social capital, and access to resources were interconnected and vital to empowerment and well-being. To improve empowerment and income, policies should reduce membership fees and provide initial support to encourage small and marginal farmer participation in FPOs.
Description
Indian J Econ Dev, 2026, 22(3), 559-572
https://doi.org/10.35716/IJED-25060