Marngar, Meghalaya | July 22, 2025 –
The School of Livelihood and Rural Development (SLRD) organized a one-day capacity-building workshop on “Produce Aggregation” at the Marngar Cluster Farmers Producer Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd. The workshop aimed to equip farmers, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) with the knowledge and strategies required to collectively organize, process, and market their agricultural produce effectively.
Why Produce Aggregation Matters
The initiative addressed critical challenges faced by small and marginal farmers in bringing their produce to market efficiently. Through produce aggregation, farmers can consolidate harvests, reduce wastage, and access better markets, ensuring improved income and sustainability. The workshop emphasized not just market access, but also standardization, logistics, and value addition—core elements in strengthening rural agricultural value chains.
Workshop Highlights
Session 1:
Dr. Aniruddha Roy, Senior Scientist at ICAR-ABI, Umiam, led the first technical session. He explained how simple aggregation practices—like cleaning, sorting, grading, and packaging—can substantially improve income by enhancing quality and reducing post-harvest losses. He elaborated on:
- Aggregation Benefits: Collective bargaining, reduced transport costs, better quality control
- Models: FPOs, cooperatives, and village-level collection centers
- Infrastructure Needs: Storage, packaging, cold chains, transportation
- Value Addition Examples: Turmeric powder, banana chips, jackfruit pulp
- Market Linkages & Digital Tools: Connecting farmers to e-platforms and using apps for traceability
Session 2:
Mrs. Thameri Marak from ICAR-ABI introduced participants to the Agri-Business Incubation Centre’s (ABI) role in supporting agri-entrepreneurship. She outlined how ABI offers:
- Hands-on training and technical support
- Business mentorship and product development
- Market linkages and access to affordable incubation facilities
Participants & Engagement
The workshop saw active participation from a cross-section of stakeholders—small and marginal farmers, SHG members, and FPO representatives. Their enthusiasm underscored a shared commitment to improving agricultural practices and livelihoods in the region.
Key Takeaways & Outcomes
- Raised Awareness on the significance of aggregation in reducing losses and improving market access
- Practical Knowledge of simple, village-level value addition techniques
- Understanding Aggregation Models like FPOs and cooperatives
- Insight into Market Linkages with wholesalers, retailers, and digital platforms
- Implementation Interest expressed by several attendees to initiate small-scale aggregation units
Conclusion
Though the workshop focused on theoretical insights, it served as a critical first step in promoting collective marketing and value addition. By building foundational knowledge on aggregation, SLRD has empowered farmers and rural producers to explore collaborative approaches that can lead to increased profitability and resilience.
With continued support and capacity building, such efforts can transform the rural agricultural landscape in Meghalaya and beyond.