Assam: Woman-led FPC empowers farmers, strengthens rural market linkages in Nalbari

A woman-led Farmer Producer Company in Assam’s Nalbari district is emerging as a model for inclusive and sustainable agricultural marketing. The Navadeepa Organic Farmer Producer Company Limited (FPC), based at Kaithalkuchi under the Tihu Assembly constituency, brings together 995 farmers from 29 villages across the Madhupur Development Block.

Challenging the long-standing narrative of poor market access for small and marginal farmers, Navadeepa Organic FPC has been working closely with cultivators to ensure fair and assured marketing avenues. Under the leadership of Managing Director Dipti Barman, the company has been implementing a range of farmer-centric initiatives since 2021, aimed at improving incomes and strengthening rural livelihoods.

The FPC procures locally grown crops, including mustard, maize, turmeric, and other agricultural produce, directly from farmers at remunerative prices. These raw materials are then processed into value-added products such as mustard oil, turmeric powder, flour, gram flour, among others. This value addition has enabled farmers to secure better returns and stable market access.

The initiative also places strong emphasis on women’s participation, with men and women equally involved in its operations. Women farmers and self-help groups contribute significantly by producing items such as banana chips, assorted pickles, vermicompost, moringa powder, bhadailata powder, manimuni powder, and similar products, all of which are marketed under the FPC’s banner.

Navadeepa Organic FPC ensures wide market outreach by facilitating sales through its own retail outlets, as well as in local markets across Nalbari and other parts of Assam, including trade fairs and commercial exhibitions.

Beyond farmer support, the company has also generated direct employment for four individuals, both men and women. Expressing her satisfaction, Managing Director Dipti Barman said she feels encouraged by the close engagement with farmers and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the agricultural sector.

Ensuring consistent quality remains a core objective of the FPC. Through systematic labeling, packaging, and branding, Navadeepa Organic Farmer Producer Company Limited has successfully positioned its products competitively alongside established brands in the market.