Women Led FPO in Dang District Achieves Rs 1.85 Crore Turnover Through Diverse Product Sales

In the heart of Gujarat's tribal-dominated Dang district, a remarkable transformation is unfolding. A group of semi-literate women, hailing from various villages in Dang, has come together to build a multi-crore enterprise known as the Farmers Producer Organisation (FPO). Their journey from marginalized farmers to successful entrepreneurs reflects their determination and the transformative power of collective effort.

These women have defied societal expectations, shattering the barriers that limited their economic potential. In the past, due to restricted market access, women farmers had to sell their produce individually, which often resulted in stagnant financial conditions.

Recognizing the need for change, the Aga Khan Village Support Programme (India) (AKRSPI), a voluntary organization, stepped in. Their goal was clear, to empower tribal women in Dang by organizing their agricultural activities, enabling them to secure better prices for their produce, enhance their decision-making influence, and uplift their economic status.

Navin Patidar, CEO of AKRSPI, highlighted the challenges faced by farmers in Dang, where limited agricultural land and predominantly small or marginal farmers hindered their ability to sell produce in the market. To address this, Patidar initiated a program to train these women in administration, marketing, and other essential areas, preparing them to run their businesses independently.

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The FPO was officially established in July 2019, although it faced initial setbacks due to the Covid-induced lockdown. Nevertheless, the women of the FPO remained undeterred and continued to progress steadily.

Through their relentless efforts, the FPO has grown to include 1,170 shareholders as of January 2023. The organization achieved a commendable turnover of approximately Rs 1.85 crore in the fiscal year 2022-23. This revenue was primarily generated through the sale of agricultural seeds, farming equipment, organic medicines, fish seeds, poultry feed, and various other products.

The impact of the FPO extends beyond economic success. It has enabled people in Dang villages to access essential agricultural resources at affordable prices, such as paddy seeds and vegetable seeds. This accessibility has not only reduced costs but also eliminated the need for long journeys to procure seeds.

Empowered with knowledge of their rights, these women have also taken on leadership roles in their communities. They actively address crucial issues like access to clean water, road infrastructure, and sanitation facilities through the platform of panchayats.

Geeta Ben, a resident of Dang, shared her experience of the FPO initiative. She emphasized how it has simplified the process of procuring agricultural seeds, saving both time and money.  Sejal Ben, residing in the village of Borkhed, proudly recounted her success in selling 800 kg of paddy seeds within her community. Her earnings, boosted by a generous commission, allowed her to save a substantial amount.

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Kalpanbehan Amritbhai Gaikwad, a board member of the company and a women leader of Nadagkhadi village, highlighted the financial improvements brought about by seed sales commissions and the labor of packing kitchen garden kits. Their collective efforts have not only transformed their economic status but have also instilled a sense of self-assurance and empowerment.

The journey of these spirited women in Dang serves as an example of determination, collective action, and support from organizations like AKRSPI can lead to transformative changes in the lives of marginalized communities, ultimately contributing to the economic and social development of the region.

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