With the inspiration and cooperation of Gramin Adivasi Samaj Vikas Sansthan (GASVS), the Sausar Farmer Producer Company (S-FPC) was established and registered on July 14, 2014, under the Companies Act of 2013. The S-FPC comprises 391 small and marginal farmers across 15 villages in the Pipla Narayanwar Zone of Sausar Tehsil, with its registered office located in the same zone. Boasting 2,013 shareholders and a share capital of INR 20,13,000, the S-FPC has been instrumental in providing various services and guidance to farmers since its inception, particularly in agriculture-related interventions.
Promoting Sustainable Agriculture
One of the significant milestones achieved by S-FPC is the establishment of an organic fertilizer production unit in the village of Jakhiwadi, which has a production capacity of 60 tons. This initiative aims to promote organic farming by supplying organic fertilizers to farmers at affordable prices. GASVS and S-FPC are actively motivating local farmers from 20 villages in the Sausar block to adopt organic farming practices. In addition, 10 organic manure production units have been set up at the block level to support this transition.
Supporting Farmers through Innovation and Crisis
During the COVID-19 pandemic, GASVS and S-FPC provided free agricultural start-up support to 110 small and marginal farmers, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the farming community through challenging times. This support included the provision of seeds, fertilizers, and technical guidance, ensuring that farmers could continue their agricultural activities despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
How GASVS is Implementing Agricultural Reformation
GASVS has been at the forefront of agricultural reformation among rural tribal communities through a multi-faceted approach:
- Capacity Building: GASVS conducts regular training sessions and workshops to educate farmers on sustainable agricultural practices, organic farming, and the benefits of forming producer companies. These programs aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of farmers, empowering them to adopt innovative farming techniques.
- Resource Provision: Through S-FPC, GASVS ensures that farmers have access to necessary resources such as organic fertilizers, high-quality seeds, and modern farming equipment. The establishment of the organic fertilizer production unit in Jakhiwadi is a prime example of this effort.
- Market Linkages: GASVS and S-FPC work collaboratively to create market linkages for farmers, ensuring they can sell their produce at fair prices. By negotiating with buyers and facilitating direct market access, they help farmers secure better income for their products.
- Community Engagement: GASVS fosters a sense of community among farmers by encouraging the formation of self-help groups and farmer clubs. These groups serve as platforms for sharing knowledge, resources, and experiences, fostering collective growth and development.
- Sustainability Focus: The emphasis on organic farming and the establishment of organic manure production units underscore GASVS’s commitment to environmental sustainability. By promoting eco-friendly farming practices, they are helping to preserve the soil health and biodiversity of the region.
Impact and Future Goals
Since its establishment, S-FPC has made significant strides in improving the livelihoods of small and marginal farmers in Sausar. The initiatives led by GASVS have not only enhanced agricultural productivity but also promoted sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices. The successful implementation of these programs is a testament to GASVS’s dedication to empowering rural tribal communities.
Moving forward, GASVS aims to expand its reach to more villages, increase the production capacity of organic fertilizers, and introduce new agricultural innovations to further uplift the farming community. By continuing to work closely with farmers and leveraging their strong network of partners, GASVS is poised to drive further agricultural reformation and development in the region.