From fragmentation to collective strength: An analysis of FPOS as a solution for Haryana#39;s small and marginal farmers

Abstract

This study assesses Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in Haryana as institutional solutions for small and marginal farmers facing challenges like market exclusion, resource scarcity, and climate vulnerability. Agriculture dominates Haryana’s economy (19.2% GSDP), yet fragmented landholdings 85% farmers cultivate only 35% land hinder sustainability. FPOs enhance bargaining power, reduce costs, and improve market access through aggregation. Driven by SFAC-Haryana (SFACH) and schemes like the Crop Cluster Development Programme (CCDP), 749 FPOs exist statewide, though distribution is uneven (e.g., Hisar: 72 vs. Faridabad: 11). SFACH leads implementation (324 FPOs), but gaps in infrastructure, policy coherence, and equitable growth persist. The research underscores FPOs’ transformative potential while advocating for robust institutional support to bridge implementation gaps and ensure inclusive farmer empowerment.