Enabling Smallholder Farmers: Pioneering Inclusive Agriculture and Transforming Food System
Introduction:
On World Food Day, Bhoomi Ka, in collaboration with its partner Vaagdhara, organized a stimulating Food System Dialogue at Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Dindori, Madhya Pradesh. The event centered around discussing the crucial involvement of smallholder farmers in influencing the trajectory of agriculture in India.
These unsung heroes, constituting 78% of the farming community, contribute over 50% to the nation’s total agricultural production. Despite their vital role, their efforts often go unnoticed, facing challenges such as limited resources and market access.
Inaugural Sessions:
Distinguished stakeholders, including farmers, Farmers’ Producer Organizations (FPOs), experts, and government officials, gathered on October 16, 2023, to deliberate on strategies for empowering smallholder farmers. Dr. Sudeep Sharma, Senior Programme Lead at Vaagdhara, set the tone by emphasizing the necessity of a comprehensive action plan to revitalize local food systems through the empowerment of smallholder farmers.
Key Recommendations and Speakers:
Dr. Sudeep Sharma: Emphasized the need for a cohesive community among smallholder farmers and effective marketing strategies for value-added products.
Insights from Experts:
Notable experts such as Mr. P.L. Patel Agriculture expert, Vaagdhara, and Mr. Ramveer Singh Rajput, Agriculture expert, NIWCYD shared inspiring success stories and addressed challenges faced by smallholder farmers. Initiatives like Vaagdhara’s Bhoomi Ka and NIWCYD’s FPOs emerged as catalysts for promoting sustainable and organic farming practices. Dr. D.N. Srivash, Senior Scientist at the Regional Agriculture Research Station (RARS), delivered on the paramount importance of inclusive agriculture for smallholders and its pivotal role in shaping the food system.
Key Recommendations and Speakers:
Mr. P.L. Patel: Showcased Bhoomi Ka’s success in promoting chemical-free farming, emphasizing the importance of value addition and marketing.
Mr. Ramveer Singh Rajput: Discussed the operational history of NIWCYD, underlining the essential role played by smallholder farmers in the food supply chain and the positive outcomes resulting from their contributions.
Panel Discussions:
The following 3-panel discussions and a session were organized post-inaugural session:
- Panel Discussion I – Smallholder Farmers’ Contribution to Enhancing the Food System.
- Panel Discussion II – Strengthening Market Linkages and FPO Engagement for Small and Marginal Farmers.
- Panel Discussion III – Enhancing Smallholder Visibility through Policy Regulations
- Session on Importance of PGS Certification
Enlightening panel discussions focused on smallholder farmers’ contributions, market linkages, and policy regulations. Dr. Harish Dixit highlighted community collaboration and effective marketing strategies, while Dr. Geeta Singh underscored the pivotal role of FPOs in capacity building. Ujiyaro Bai Representing the Baiga tribe, shared her insights on Kodo millets and the traditional farming practices employed by tribal women. She discussed their efforts to conserve traditional seeds.
Key Recommendations and Speakers (Panel I – Smallholder Farmers’ Contribution):
Dr. Harish Dixit: Emphasized community collaboration and effective marketing strategies for value-added products.
Ujiyaro Bai – Representing the Baiga tribe, Ujiyaro Bai shared her insights on Kodo millets and the traditional farming practices employed by tribal women. She elaborated on their endeavors to preserve traditional seeds and discussed the importance of seed conservation.
Key Recommendations and Speakers (Panel II – Market Linkages and FPO Engagement):
Dr. Geeta Singh: Advocated for fostering collaborative communities among smallholder farmers and comprehensive capacity building through FPOs.
Mr. Manendra Mishra: Representing Transform Rural India (TRIF), offered his insights on enhancing market linkages for smallholder farmers.
Key Recommendations and Speakers (Panel III – Enhancing Smallholder Visibility through Policy Regulations):
Dr. Neha Dhuria: Highlighted the pivotal role of government policies in Madhya Pradesh, detailing comprehensive implementation from seed distribution to the harvest stage.
Ms. Mohini Maurya: Advocated for increased farmer involvement, focusing on the vital linkage of inputs to the outputs of farmers.
Ms. Rekha Pandram: Underlined the crucial support provided by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra for their Farmer Producer Company (FPC).
Session on Participatory Guarantee System
A crucial session led by Mr. Sharad Mishra delved into the significance of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Certification. This system not only ensures sustainable agriculture but also certifies high-quality produce, bridging the gap for farmers engaged in organic practices without official certification.
In Conclusion:
The event concluded with key takeaways, emphasizing the need for organic farming techniques, value addition, and governmental support. These insights collectively framed a roadmap for the sustainable future of smallholder farmers.
The Food System Dialogue brought to light the urgent need to recognize and bolster smallholder farmers. Their resilience and contribution to food security are integral to the sustainable development of Indian agriculture. As we navigate towards a future of food sustainability, let us collectively champion the cause of our smallholder farmers.