Indian farmers have two choices: collectivise or quit

In this episode of Field Notes, TR Vivek speaks to Vilas Shinde, the founder of Sahyadri Farms, India’s largest farmer producer company (FPC). FPCs are for-profit companies jointly owned by a collective of farmers where outsiders aren’t allowed. Through economies of scale, the farmers get incredibly more bargaining power when selling their produce or buying seeds and fertilizers.

Shinde shares his experiences of running a profitable FPC and creating a business ecosystem focussed entirely on making farmers prosperous. Collectivise and compete in the global marketplace, or give up farming is his simple mantra.

For feedback and comments, write to vivek.tr@thehindu.co.in

Source: thehindubusinessline.com