Farmer producer companies for sustainable rural development in Marathwada region: An analysis

Abstract

The agricultural sector remains the backbone of India's economy, particularly in rural regions like Marathwada. However, farmers face challenges including fragmented landholding, lack of market access, green marketing rules and regulations and insufficient infrastructure. Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) have emerged as a promising mechanism to address these challenges by enhancing the agricultural value chain. This study examines the role of FPCs in fostering sustainable rural development in Marathwada. Through a mixed-methods approach, this paper explores their impact on income generation, market linkages, and capacity building, highlighting key challenges and suggesting policy interventions.