PULWAMA: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom chaired a comprehensive review meeting to discuss the progress and implementation of the Central Sector Scheme for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) under the aegis of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
The meeting brought together key stakeholders including representatives from NABARD, agricultural experts, district officials, and members of various FPOs operating within the district.
The primary objective was to evaluate the current status of the scheme, address challenges faced by FPOs, and devise strategies to enhance their operational efficiency and impact. The administration is committed to aiding Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in obtaining essential licenses for seeds, pesticides, fertilizers, e-NAM, GST, FSSAI, and more.
FPOs will be integrated onto the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and other e-retailing platforms to enhance the sale of their produce. Developmental departments are tasked with sensitizing FPO Board Members about various government schemes and programmes through regular awareness campaigns.
During the meeting, Dr. Qayoom emphasized the critical role of FPOs in empowering farmers, improving agricultural productivity, and enhancing rural incomes. He highlighted the importance of collaboration among different departments and agencies to ensure the successful implementation of the scheme.
Dr. Qayoom also reiterated the commitment of the district administration to support FPOs through various initiatives and schemes. Discussions during the meeting included, review of the current progress of FPOs under the scheme, Identification of bottlenecks and challenges faced by FPOs, Strategies for capacity building and skill development of FPO members, Financial and technical support mechanisms available through NABARD, Future action plans to strengthen the FPO ecosystem in Pulwama.
Dr. Qayoom concluded the meeting by urging all stakeholders to work in a coordinated manner to achieve the objectives of the Central Sector Scheme for FPOs. He assured continuous monitoring and regular follow-up meetings to ensure the scheme's success and the welfare of the farming community in Pulwama.
