FOCUS Nagaland organized an MoU signing Programme for the release of grant-in-aid to 16 FPOs supported by FOCUS project, Nagaland on the 28th of June 2024, at Secretariate Conference Hall, Nagaland, Kohima. The programme was graced by Mr. Mhathung Yanthan, Hon’ble MLA & Advisor for Agriculture, Government of Nagaland.
In his address, Mr. Mhathung Yanthan acknowledged FOCUS for the initiative in supporting financial assistance to FPOs and encouraged the FPOs present to utilize the opportunity in reaching larger markets and collectively achieve economic gains through the umbrella of FPOs. On a note of caution, he cited that many FPOs are formed only to exist, he urged the farmers present to strive in becoming performing FPOs which he believes will play a vital role in transforming the market and business scenario of the State. He ended his note with an encouragement to continue coming together and create a space where sharing of knowledge and experiences can take place.
The State Project Director, Mr. Shanavas C, IAS, in his welcome address appraised all the farmers present on the purpose and objectives of forming FPO, and urged them to become efficient service providers for farmers to access the larger markets. In his speech, he encouraged the FPOs to promote the fellow farmers’ business through value chain development and also promote the youth farmers, while also encouraging them to be successful associations utilizing the grant-in-aid/ seed fund in diversifying their business activities to expanding their operations.
Participants of the programme included the District Project Management (represented by the District Agriculture Officers), District Project Officers of all 8 districts, 2 representatives each of the 16 FPO’s, representative of FOCUS contract partner Synergy Technofin Pvt. Ltd (Mr. SL David, Rural Social Community Development Expert) and the staff members of the Project Management Unit, Kohima.
The grant-in-aid amounted to One Crore Sixty Lakhs (Rs Ten lakhs each to every FPO) which is a one-time grant provided to assist the FPO’s in their agricultural marketing business plans.
The programme was chaired by Ms. Hraveine David, Manager- Gender & Community Institutions, FOCUS-Nagaland, and the closing note was addressed by Mr. Zacheo Murry, Manager-Knowledge Management, FOCUS-Nagaland.