Marking a significant step towards strengthening infrastructure and improving farmer services, CAMPCO on Friday laid the foundation stone for its new Vittal branch premises in Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district.
The foundation stone was laid by Dr. K. Prabhakar Bhat, while the event was attended by chief guests Capt. Brijesh Chowta and Ashok Kumar Rai. The programme was presided over by CAMPCO President S. R. Sathishchandra, in the presence of senior officials, former presidents, and local representatives.
The upcoming office-cum-godown complex will be constructed on 91 cents of land acquired by CAMPCO in 2024 within Vittal city limits. With an estimated built-up area of around 30,000 square feet, the project involves an investment of approximately Rs 12 crore. The construction contract has been awarded to a local infrastructure firm, and the project is expected to be completed within 18 months.
The new facility is designed to address longstanding challenges faced by the existing Vittal branch, which has been functioning since 1986 on a 76-cent plot with a built-up area of 19,188 square feet. Over the years, increasing congestion and a narrow approach road have led to operational bottlenecks and inconvenience for farmer members visiting the branch for procurement and other services.
Once operational, the new branch is expected to significantly enhance the procurement, storage, and handling of key commodities such as arecanut, cocoa, pepper, and other agricultural produce. Improved accessibility, modern infrastructure, and adequate parking facilities will ensure smoother movement of goods and better service delivery to farmers.
Speaking on the occasion, CAMPCO officials reiterated the cooperative’s commitment to upgrading its infrastructure in line with the growing needs of its member base. The new Vittal branch is seen as a crucial step towards improving efficiency, reducing delays, and creating a more farmer-friendly environment.
Senior functionaries including Managing Director Dr. B. V. Sathyanarayana, Vice President Padmaraja Pattaje, and former presidents Konkodi Padmanabha and A. Kishore Kumar Kodgi were also present at the event.
CAMPCO, a leading cooperative in the arecanut and cocoa sector, continues to play a vital role in supporting farmer livelihoods in the region. The new Vittal branch project underscores its focus on modernisation, improved logistics, and enhanced member services, ensuring that farmers benefit from better infrastructure and seamless operations in the years ahead.
