Deputy Commissioner (DC) Doda, Vishesh Paul Mahajan today chaired the meeting of District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) to discuss the Formation and Promotion of Farmers Promotion Organisations (FPOs) in the district.
The DC asked the concerned departments to spread mass awareness among the farmers about the economic benefits of the FPO scheme. He underlined the need for developing a database of area wise variety of fruits, vegetables and crops for inclusive and holistic planning.
At the outset, brief discussion was held on the existing FPOs and the scope of their activities. It was informed that 'Bhaderkashi fruits producers Company' in Bhaderwah Block and 'Assar vegetables produce company limited' in Assar Block are the two existing FPOs in the District.
The Committee approved two new FPOs for Vegetables and Honey trade at Marmat and another for Walnut at Bhalessa. The meeting discussed prospective business plan of existing FPOs with CBBOs, progress of FPOs and future course of action of newly approved FPOs.
DDM NABARD, who is also the Member Secretary of DLMC, informed the chair about support and monitoring of the FPOs by NABARD. He also highlighted the salient features of the scheme, besides area of services and activities to be undertaken by the FPOs.
The DC reiterated that formation and promotion of FPOs was the first step towards enhancing cost effective production and net increase in the income of the farmers. He urged the stakeholder departments to work with an all-inclusive and holistic approach for enhancing the income of Farmers.
The meeting was attended by ADC, ACR, Chief Planning Officer, DDM NABARD, CAO, CHO, DAHO, LDM, representatives of CBBOs and other members of the Committee.