Ahmednagar, 10th July, 2024: In continuation of the spirit of Maharashtra Krishi Din, SwitchON Foundation has successfully conducted training programs and workshops across various villages in Maharashtra. These sessions were organized for farmers and focused on regenerative agriculture, organic input preparation, pest control, and information on various government schemes available to support farmers.
One notable training session took place in Rahuri, Ahmednagar where around 100 Farmer representatives from Farmer Producer Organisations gained hands-on experience in creating and using organic inputs such as Neem Ark/Oil, Dashparni Ark; their preparation, storage and usage specially for crops like Cotton and Soybean. The training focused on practical techniques that farmers could easily implement in their own fields, promoting the reduction of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. By adopting these eco-friendly farming methods, farmers can improve soil fertility and structure , increase water retention, and support a diverse range of beneficial microorganisms and wildlife. These methods not only contribute to soil health but also enhance farm resilience against climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase the overall productivity and sustainability of agricultural systems.
The event was graced by Agricultural Department officials like Mr. Bapusaheb Shinde, Taluka Agriculture Officer and Mrs Vinaya Bansode, Circle Agriculture Officer. They shared their expertise on sustainable agriculture and also the government support through schemes available to encourage farmers to adopt regenerative agriculture.
With the support of the Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC), SwitchON Foundation promoted the formation of Farmer Producer Companies to foster collective strength, streamline agricultural operations, and empower small and marginal farmers with access to markets, resources, technologies and financial opportunities. SwitchON has promoted 16 FPCs in Maharashtra with a total of around 9000 shareholders benefitting from various initiatives, Govt schemes, subsidies, training, workshops and other agricultural inputs.
Mr. Vinay Jaju, Managing Director of SwitchON Foundation said, “Our aim is to empower farmers by providing them with the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to succeed. The formation of Farmer Producer Organizations has been instrumental in transforming the lives of many farmers, helping them achieve financial stability and sustainable agricultural practices.”
SwitchON formed the Farmers Producer Organizations by bringing farmers together and facilitating their organization, offering a pathway to enhanced profitability and sustainability for member farmers.
Mr. Bapusaheb Shinde, Taluka Agriculture Officer stated, “The efforts of SwitchON Foundation in promoting sustainable agricultural practices align perfectly with our vision for a greener and more resilient agricultural sector in Maharashtra. By equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools for regenerative agriculture and organic input preparation, they are playing a crucial role in enhancing the livelihoods of our farming communities and ensuring long-term environmental sustainability.”
In partnership with the Agriculture department, SwitchON Facilitated the FPOs for various scheme linkages, agricultural training, and the adoption of new technologies such as drip irrigation, distributed renewable energy technology and solar water pumps which promotes climate-smart agriculture. Through ongoing training, the farmers have gained valuable knowledge about government schemes like PMFME, MahaDBT Portal,PM KUSUM, MREGS and storage solutions. In addition to improved market access, specially curated training programs for the Board of Directors (BOD) and the CEO of the company were also organised ensuring the FPC is managed effectively and operates smoothly. Recently, during the Tarang Mela at PUNE organised by SFAC, NABARD and ONDC, Brahmani Agromind Farmer Producer Company received an Award for their efforts.
“I truly believe that every shareholder can benefit from the collectivisation of farmers. Joining Brahmani Agromind Farmer Producer Company has completely transformed my approach to farming. With access to advanced techniques and collective resources, I’ve significantly reduced costs and increased my profits. The support and knowledge I’ve gained are invaluable,”said Sarjerao Pandurang Rajdev, one of the shareholders of the FPC.
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For more information please contact Gargi Maitra (8336919233)
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