Role of fpos in organic farming skill development of farmers in marathwada region

Organic Farming is an alternative agricultural system which avoids the use of synthetic inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, feed additives etc. and to the maximum extent feasible rely upon crop rotations, crop residues, animal manures, off-farm organic waste, mineral grade rock additives and biological system of nutrient mobilization and plant protection. Farmers, Food processors, Exporters, Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) and Non-Government Organisations (NGO) are focusing organic farming due to increased consciousness about health hazards due to contamination caused by chemical or synthetic inputs. Organic farming is the sustainable method of farming which is organic farming system in India is not new and is being followed from ancient time but gathered popularity recently in India due to favorable agroclimatic conditions and biodiversity. FPO is a good alternative for the small and medium farmers. FPO can help to enhance the value of agricultural produce through various ways. FPOs are implementing contract farming for specific agricultural produce in high quantity which increases farmers bargaining power. The study found that the FPOs are taking initiatives in providing training to the farmers through contract farming. The study addresses the initiatives taken by FPOs in skill development of the farmers for organic farming. The data is obtained from FPOs & different Govt. Agencies involved in providing training to the farmers who are implementing organic farming methods for cultivation. The Researcher had an interaction with different FPOs regarding improvement in skills of organic farming by standard methods and techniques. The above said study detailed the pattern and performance of FPOs in India which focuses on functionality, dealing with the field issues. They are providing training of new methods and techniques of organic farming which is helping farmers in implementing innovative farming methods and will be able to increase yield through organic farming. FPO is helping these farmers not only in improving their skills and innovative methods employed in cultivation but also are capable to increasing their bargaining power. Such FPOs are integrating these benefits into the final value chain with the objectives of enhancing incomes and yield.