NABARD flags off Assam farmer producer companies for training at BIRD, Lucknow

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 21, 2025

In a bid to strengthen the operations of Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) in Assam and enhance agricultural productivity, the Assam Regional Office of NABARD organized a flag-off ceremony on Thursday for a four-day training and exposure visit to the Bankers Institute of Rural Development (BIRD) in Lucknow.

The event, held at NABARD’s Dispur office, was chaired by Loken Das, Chief General Manager of NABARD Assam. Representatives from the Coconut Board, SELCO Foundation, and NABKISAN also participated, sharing insights on schemes that could benefit farmers and promoting the convergence of efforts in the future.

A total of 11 FPCs from Nalbari, Morigaon, and Barpeta districts have been selected for the programme. Around 30 participants, including farmers, Board of Directors, CEOs, and key stakeholders, will attend the training from June 24 to 27 in Lucknow.

Addressing the gathering, CGM Loken Das emphasized the importance of developing Assam’s agricultural potential through advanced farming techniques, precision agriculture, and product development at the local level. He also expressed concern over rising youth migration from Assam, urging a focus on self-reliance and entrepreneurship within the state’s agricultural sector.

AGM Bhama Deuri engaged with participants on the challenges FPCs currently face and how institutional support can address them. Meanwhile, P.M. Das, the Cluster-Based Business Organization (CBBO) in charge of these 11 FPCs, outlined the goals of the training.

According to Das, the programme will equip farmers with skills in company management, financial documentation, efficient cultivation methods, credit linkage with banks, and access to government schemes. It will also guide FPCs on branding, online sales, export opportunities, and the creation of strong market linkages.

The initiative marks a significant step toward building sustainable agricultural enterprises in Assam and empowering farmers to operate as successful agribusiness entities.