Srinagar,Jun,19:In A significant stride towards empowering grassroots farming institutions, the Directorate of Extension, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), inaugurated a specialised training program today titled “Strengthening of Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) under SFAC”. The program, focused on capacity building and professionalisation of FPCs in the Kupwara district, aims to enhance the operational efficiency and business acumen of these vital farmer-led entities.
The Directorate has played a pivotal role in fostering collective farming and entrepreneurial ventures in the region, successfully facilitating the formation of four Farmer Producer Companies across the blocks of Langate, Qaziabad, Mawar, and Nutnoosa. These initiatives have positively impacted over 400 farming families, promoting sustainable agri-business models and market-oriented farming.
The program was inaugurated under the visionary leadership of Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, and the dynamic guidance of Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K. Speaking at the occasion, Prof. Raihana Kanth emphasised the importance of FPCs as farmer-centric, professionally managed business entities, registered under the Companies Act, designed to collectively enhance production, marketing, and income-generation opportunities for small and marginal farmers.
Addressing the participants — including CEOs and accountants of the FPCs — Prof. Kanth highlighted the need for strong leadership, strategic planning, and sustained collective action to ensure the long-term viability of these agri-business ventures. She urged the farmer leaders to become grassroots extension agents, actively contributing to the socio-economic upliftment of rural communities.
The training program featured comprehensive technical sessions conducted by domain experts, including Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Dr. Raies Ahmad Bhat (Assistant Professor, Agronomy), Dr. Ghansham Das, and Mr. Priyansh (Chartered Accountant). The sessions covered a range of critical topics, including legal and institutional frameworks governing FPCs, operational management strategies, financial planning, preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), and development of market linkages and business plans.
An interactive feedback session provided a platform for participants to share their experiences, challenges, and suggestions for strengthening FPC operations. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks to the dignitaries, experts, and participants for their valuable contributions.
Reaffirming its commitment to rural transformation, the Directorate of Extension pledged sustained handholding and support to the Farmer Producer Companies, with a broader objective of transforming traditional farmers into empowered agri-entrepreneurs and not only fortifying the rural economy of district Kupwara but fortifying the rural economy of all Jammu & Kashmir.
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