Growing Digital and Market Integration
A major thrust of the programme is enhancing FPO integration with national agri-marketing networks. As of 31 October 2025, an impressive 4,642 FPOs have been connected to the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) portal, enabling transparent price discovery and direct market access. This linkage allows farmers to tap into wider markets and negotiate better prices without heavy dependence on local intermediaries.
To support smooth business operations, FPOs are being assisted in obtaining essential input licences such as seeds, fertilizers and pesticides, along with mandi licences necessary for large-scale produce marketing. The government is also conducting weekly webinars to equip FPOs with insights on value-addition, compliance, and market trends.
Beyond e-NAM, FPOs are being introduced to emerging digital commerce platforms, including the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and the Government e-Marketplace (GeM). This integration is expected to diversify market options and help farmer collectives build stronger bargaining power.
Credit Access and Infrastructure Support
To improve access to financial resources, FPOs are encouraged to use the Credit Guarantee Fund (CGF) under the 10,000 FPO scheme, which provides collateral-free loans. So far, 2,583 FPOs have secured credit guarantee cover, enabling them to invest in storage, processing, and distribution infrastructure.
In addition, 1,590 FPOs have availed benefits under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), allowing them to build modern agri-assets such as warehouses, grading units, and primary processing facilities. This push aims to reduce post-harvest losses and improve value realization for smallholders.
The PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PM-FME) scheme has approved credit-linked subsidies for 236 FPOs, supporting efforts to move beyond raw produce and enter value-added processing markets.
Capacity Building and Industry Linkages
Strengthening knowledge and industry collaboration is a key focus of the programme. The Ministry of Agriculture has been conducting regular webinars where industry experts share insights into supply chain management, product quality standards, and corporate partnerships. Such engagements help FPOs understand the demands of processors, exporters, and retail chains.
FPOs are also being connected with agribusinesses through buyer-seller meets, exhibitions and melas. These platforms create opportunities for long-term procurement contracts and business-to-business agreements. Furthermore, FPO participation in national expos conducted by industry associations and government departments offers exposure to advanced technologies, packaging solutions, and market innovations.
While FPOs benefit from multiple schemes, the government has clarified that PM-KISAN benefits are directly targeted at individual farmers rather than collectives. However, improved income through stronger FPOs ultimately supports millions of PM-KISAN beneficiaries who are part of these groups.
