Farmer-Producer Organizations (FPOs) drive collective income growth across rural Rajasthan
JAIPUR (India CSR): Farmer-Producer Organizations (FPOs) established under Hindustan Zinc’s flagship rural development programme ‘Samadhan’ have recorded a combined turnover of Rs. 7.75 crore in FY 2024–25, reflecting significant growth and strengthening of rural value chains across Rajasthan.
Implemented in partnership with the BAIF Development Research Foundation, the Samadhan initiative has empowered over 35,000 farmer families through sustainable farming practices, agri-entrepreneurship, and dairy-based livelihoods. The formation and success of these FPOs have been instrumental in transforming small and marginal farmers into collective entrepreneurs.
FPO Turnover Performance under Samadhan (FY 2024–25)
| FPO Name | District | Shareholders | Share Capital (₹ lakh) | Annual Turnover (₹ lakh) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tambawati Nagari FPO | Bhilwara | 2,077 | 23.44 | 141.67 |
| Jai Chittor FPO | Chittorgarh | 2,000 | 28.35 | 204.49 |
| Rajpura Dariba FPO | Rajsamand | 2,076 | 22.56 | 100.48 |
| Ghata Wali Mataji FPO | Udaipur | 1,229 | 14.40 | 307.23 |
| Zawar Mata FPO | Udaipur | 1,755 | 8.40 | 21.75 |
| Total | — | 9,137 | 97.15 | 775.62 (₹7.75 crore) |
Driving Rural Prosperity through Collective Growth
Over the past three years, the five FPOs have collectively achieved a turnover of nearly Rs. 20 crore, demonstrating the long-term sustainability and income impact of the Samadhan initiative. These organizations enable farmers to access quality seeds, inputs, irrigation technology, and collective marketing systems—boosting both productivity and profitability.
Hindustan Zinc, through its broader CSR vision, continues to expand Samadhan to promote micro-enterprises in dairy, horticulture, and sustainable agriculture. With over 35,000 farmers and 23 lakh individuals already benefiting from its various community programmes, the company remains one of India’s leading champions of inclusive rural development and income generation.
Farmers See Steady Income Growth
The initiative has empowered thousands of farmers with training in irrigation efficiency, cattle rearing, and agri-entrepreneurship. One such farmer, 46-year-old Chhoga Lal Salvi from Lakshmipura village in Rajsamand, shared how switching from maize to high-tech chilli cultivation under Samadhan turned his seasonal struggle into a consistent source of income of Rs. 700–800 a day.
“Earlier, I waited months to earn from maize,” he said. “Now, I harvest chillies daily, my children eat better, and I’ve bought new tools to expand my farm.”
Dairy Enterprises Empowering Women
The Ghata Wali Mataji Farmer Producer Company in Udaipur, supported by Samadhan, operates a dairy micro-unit that achieved a turnover of ₹1.6 crore within three years. The initiative has empowered women and small dairy farmers with access to formal markets, assured buyers, and fair prices—creating a new stream of steady income for rural households.
Expanding Income Opportunities
Encouraged by the success, Hindustan Zinc plans to expand Samadhan’s reach by promoting micro-enterprises in dairy processing, horticulture, and allied activities. With units already processing 250 litres of milk daily, the programme is fostering local employment and economic self-reliance.
Wider Impact Across Communities
Beyond agriculture, Hindustan Zinc’s CSR umbrella includes flagship initiatives such as Nand Ghar, Shiksha Sambal, and Unchi Udaan, collectively benefiting nearly two million people across 3,700 villages.
Aligned with India’s development priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — including No Poverty, Quality Education, Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Climate Action — these programmes have improved learning outcomes, income opportunities, and quality of life for over 23 lakh individuals.
Through integrated community development efforts, Hindustan Zinc continues to strengthen rural economies and drive sustainable income growth, reaffirming its commitment to building self-reliant and prosperous communities across India.
(India CSR)
