​Gir Krushi Vasant

In the Gir area, the recent storm has disrupted local life and damaged long-cultivated mango trees. Global warming continues to impact agriculture, making it more expensive and labor-intensive. As a result, many young people are leaving farming for other careers, influenced by modern aspirations. Despite significant government investment in agriculture, progress has been limited. The government is currently working to double farmers' incomes by creating 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and organizing the unregulated farming sector, but only a few FPOs are successfully operating at this time.

FPOs are designed to unite small and marginal farmers to provide them with quality inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, credit, and technical support, while also facilitating collective marketing and bargaining. One notable example is the Gir Krishi Vasant FPO in Gir Gadhda village, which directly sells high-quality produce at fair prices. Established in 2016 with support from NABARD and the Indian government, this FPO has embraced innovation, organizing events like the Kesar Keri Mohotsav to enhance market access. Despite initial challenges, the FPO has thrived under the guidance of experienced farmers and experts, offering training and workshops to its members. The direct interaction between farmers and consumers has improved produce quality and empowered farmers to navigate the market effectively.

FPO employs advanced technology for strategic advancement, maintaining connections with customers, farmers, and employees through its unique website and social media. It is the only FPO in Gujarat with its own site and uses POS systems, online banking, and QR codes for financial transactions. Farmer Rameshbhai Heerpara, participating in the Kesar Mango Festival, reports better mango prices and relief from trader exploitation. Fellow farmer Dharamshibhai Karamur notes that the festival has established a direct market link, leading to lower prices for their produce.

Agri startups and horticulture training are helping farmers adopt health-friendly practices. In Gir, the saffron mango cultivation covers 25,000 hectares, producing around 200,000 metric tonnes. Growers travel from afar to harvest these prized mangoes. He highlights that providing high-quality, carbide-free saffron mangoes ensures customer satisfaction. However, some traders are misleading consumers by selling carbided mangoes as organic. For years, Hunshainbhai has bought saffron mangoes during the festival, with customers traveling up to 100 km for them. The Gir saffron mango has received GI number 185, making it the first fruit from Gujarat and the second in India to gain such recognition.

This FPO is associated with the Agriculture and Cooperative Departments of the Government. It aims to help farmers overcome financial issues through various government schemes and provides training for both farmers and institutions.