Organizational structure and growth of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in India with special reference to Maharashtra

Abstract

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are institutional mechanisms designed to strengthen the collective capacity of small and marginal farmers in accessing markets, inputs, and services. This paper examines the organizational structure of FPOs and provides a detailed analysis of their growth across India and Maharashtra. It elaborates on the governance framework comprising the General Body, Board of Directors, and Executive Management and assesses regional and zonal distribution patterns of FPOs promoted by major agencies such as SFAC, NABARD, and MSAMB. Maharashtra, owing to its cooperative legacy and policy support, has emerged as a leading state in FPO formation. However, the sustainability of FPOs remains a concern due to operational and financial challenges. The findings underline the importance of inclusive governance and effective institutional support to enhance the impact and longevity of FPOs.