 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Mar 4: Vice-Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Prof. B.N. Tripathi, inaugurated a training programme organized by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). The event highlighted the critical role of FPOs in strengthening small and marginal farmers.
In his address, Prof. Tripathi underscored the importance of FPOs in empowering marginal farmers and stressed that new government schemes require time for effective implementation and upgradation. He also emphasized upon the importance of continuous support to FPOs by implementing agencies. Emphasizing upon the role of CBBOs, Prof. Tripathi highlighted the importance of handholding of resource poor farmers in strengthening the FPO financial status.
Lalit Goel, Chief Director of NCDC, elaborated on the corporation's role in supporting FPOs and emphasized the rationale behind training in financial management, bookkeeping, and account maintenance.
Director Extension, Amrish Vaid, discussed the significance of bookkeeping and accountancy for FPOs. He also explained the Government of India's FPO formation scheme, noting that Jammu and Kashmir has over 300 active FPOs. He highlighted the necessity of such training sessions to enhance financial literacy and operational efficiency.
Dr. Anil Kumar (Dean, Faculty of Agriculture), Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean, Student Welfare, and Dr. Vikas Tandon, Dean, Faculty of Horticulture and Forestry interacted with the participants, sharing valuable insights on FPO management. Jyoti Kachroo and S.P. Singh from the Department of Agricultural Economics also contributed to discussions.
Earlier, Prof. Pawan Kumar Sharma, Head, Division of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management, delivered the welcome address and presented an expert lecture on financial management for FPOs.
The training programme was coordinated by NCDC officials Syeda Salma, AD, Mohit Kumar, SPA, Nitin Madhwal, SA, ensuring smooth execution of sessions and discussions.
This initiative aligns with the government's vision of strengthening the FPO ecosystem in India, with support from institutions like SKUAST-Jammu. The programme emphasized collective growth, financial management, and sustainable development for farmer groups. |
