Farmer producer organisations in Telangana: A performance evaluation

Abstract

Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) are emerging as vital institutional mechanisms for improving smallholder farmers’ access to inputs, credit, technology, and markets, thereby strengthening their socio-economic status and collective bargaining power. By organizing farmers into formal producer groups, FPOs contribute to inclusive agricultural development and rural transformation. In this context, the present study, titled “Farmer Producer Organisations in Telangana: A Performance Evaluation,” was undertaken to assess the performance of FPOs with a specific focus on their governance and management practices, as well as their economic and financial viability. The study was conducted in Nagar Kurnool and Wanaparthy districts of Telangana State using a descriptive research design. Four actively functioning FPOs, operating for more than three years, were purposively selected — two from each promoting institution. A total sample of 40 respondents (10 from each FPO), comprising members directly involved in organisational operations, was selected. Primary data were collected through a structured interview schedule and focus group discussions. The performance of the selected FPOs was measured using the NABARD Performance Measurement Tool. The study provides a comprehensive understanding of how FPOs are functioning in terms of institutional governance, managerial effectiveness, financial sustainability, and operational efficiency. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, promoting institutions, and development agencies to strengthen the performance and long-term sustainability of FPOs in Telangana and similar agricultural contexts.