VAMNICOM explores efficient linkages of co-ops to markets; experts help

VAMNICOM, Pune held an important and contemporary book launch event, in which the potential of FPOs in the national economy has been discussed. The book is titled ‘Farming Future- exploring FPO Ecosystem in India and the event was held last week at Jubilee Hall of the institute, informs a press release issued by the organization.

While Dr. Hema Yadav, Director was the Chief Guest, distinguished speakers and panelists for discussions included Dr. Ajit Kanitkar, visiting faculty, Indian Institute of Management (IIM) at Udaipur, Speaker Prof. C Shambu Prasad Professor, Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), speaker Mr. Yogesh Thorat, Managing Director of Maha Farmers Producers Company Ltd. (MAHAFPC), Mr. Vijay Thube, Director, Shashwat Krushi Vikas India Producer Company.

This book comprises a unique collection of 15 contemporary case studies documenting in detail social enterprises in agriculture, Farming Futures: Emerging Social Enterprises in India, edited by Ajit Kanitkar and C. Shambu Prasad showcases the emergence of an entrepreneurial route to solve India’s deep-rooted agrarian crisis. The case studies chart the exciting journeys and tribulations in matching purpose and profit, often with a deep concern for the planet’s future.

Written by experienced researchers, academics, and development professionals, the case studies span a wide range of agri-sector issues. They present a hope for farming futures for first-generation entrepreneurs, predominantly from non-agriculture backgrounds, by demonstrating the viability of farm enterprises.

These include innovations in providing more efficient and non-exploitative linkages to markets and consumers, providing affordable aids and equipment for farming, and reducing the information asymmetry which farmers have when dealing with the market.

The host for the event was Miss. Shreeya Mane, First Year PGDM-ABM student; the book inaugural event began with the felicitation of the speakers, followed by the discussion on book and FPO Ecosystem in India’.

At the outset, Dr. Hema Yadav, Director VAMNICOM welcomed the Chief Guest, Invitees / Faculty and Staff of the Institute and participants of the event. Dr Hema Yadav, in her welcome speech, introduced the dignitaries and guests.

Prof. C Shambu Prasad Professor, Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), delivered a presentation on FPO ecosystem in India.

In a panel discussion, Dr. Ajit Kanitkar, spoke about three T’s i.e. transaction, trust and transparency which are required for a resilient FPO ecosystem. Further Mr. Yogesh Thorat talked about FPO ecosystem where internal attributes are needed to improvise for sustainability of the business activities.

Mr. Vijay Thube emphasized on alternative arrangements and necessary steps required to overcome the risks in the perishable market ecosystem handheld by FPO’s. Panel discussions were followed by the question and answers round from the participants of the event and expert panels.

In her concluding remarks Dr. Hema Yadav Director, explained the role of the FPO case studies in formal education and in research studies for the policy purpose. Finally, the event was concluded with the Vote of thanks by Dr. Amit Borkar. The event was moderated by Dr. Shubra Mishra Deshpande.