Efficacy of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs): A Study in Assam State

The present study assesses the socio-economic impact of Bhergaon Agro Organic Producer Company Ltd., an FPO based in Udalguri district, Assam, on its member shareholders. A sample of 700 member farmers was randomly selected from the total 1,000 shareholders during the year 2022-23. Data were collected through a pre-structured schedule and analysed using descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, binary logistic regression and Garrett’s ranking technique. Results showed significant increases in income (₹ 97,254.33 /ha to ₹ 275,566.87/ha), productivity (75.23q/ha to 125.42q/ha), employment days (125.37 to 176.19) and savings (₹ 23,855.78 to ₹ 56,528.91) after joining the FPO. Logistic regression revealed that education, family size, marketing support, capacity building and access to credit through KCC had positive effects on income, while age, gender, farm size and use of hired labour or machinery showed negative or insignificant influence. Major constraints included lack of knowledge on pest and disease management, poor extension support, low produce prices and the involvement of market intermediaries. The study concludes that FPOs can play a transformative role in enhancing farmers’ livelihoods through collective action, though targeted interventions are needed to address knowledge, technical, economic and social barriers.

⓿ For analyzing the factors affecting in increasing the income of member shareholders, binary logistic regression was estimated and to identify the different constraints faced by the members, Garrett’s ranking technique was used.

⓿ The family size and income act as an important factor affecting the income of members as FPOs. The problems faced were insufficient knowledge of pest management, poor extension support and linkage, low price of produce and involvement of market intermediaries.