Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday inaugurated the National FPO Conclave 2025 in Delhi, bringing together over 500 progressive farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Implementing Agencies (IAs), and Cluster-Based Business Organisations (CBBOs) from 24 states and 140 districts across India.
Addressing the inaugural session, Chouhan praised the contributions of farmers and FPOs, urging them to transform from producers into entrepreneurs and traders to ensure that agricultural profits directly benefit them. “Our focus is on integrated farming for the benefit of farmers. Relying solely on grains will not suffice; allied activities must be promoted to enhance farmers’ income,” he said.
The Union Minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his continued commitment to the welfare of farmers and underscored agriculture’s role as the backbone of India’s livelihood and food security.
Highlighting the issue of price disparity between farmers and consumers, Chouhan said, “Farmers often do not get fair prices for their produce while consumers pay more. This gap must be reduced.” He announced that the government would soon introduce a Seed Act to ensure farmers receive high-quality seeds and revealed that strict measures are being taken against fake seeds and pesticides, including the introduction of tougher legislation for farmer protection.
Encouraging farmers to move toward processing and value addition, the Minister said this transition is essential for increasing income and creating rural entrepreneurs. He urged FPOs to expand their membership, enhance turnover, and improve credibility within the next year, while also inviting them to share actionable suggestions with the ministry.
At the event held at the NCDC and NCUI premises in Hauz Khas, Chouhan also felicitated outstanding FPOs, CBBOs, and implementing agencies for excellence in organization, business operations, and digital innovation.
The conclave featured a grand exhibition where 267 FPOs displayed a wide variety of products – including cereals, pulses, oilseeds, fruits, vegetables, organic produce, and processed goods. Chouhan visited 57 stalls, interacted directly with farmers, appreciated their innovations, and encouraged them to adopt technology, market-oriented practices, and digital tools for growth.
The event hosted several technical sessions and panel discussions on vital themes such as oilseed production, natural farming, water use efficiency, honey production, digital marketing, AGMARK certification, seed production, and the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund. Agricultural scientists, industry representatives, and farmer leaders shared insights and strategies for improving productivity and profitability.
A dedicated platform was also set up to facilitate interactions between FPOs, buyers, and sellers, strengthening market linkages and promoting farmer entrepreneurship.
The National FPO Conclave 2025, described as a landmark event in farmer-minister dialogue, aims to empower farmers as producers, providers, and partners in India’s agricultural economy – reinforcing the vision of inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven growth in the farm sector.