JAMMU: In a significant move towards bolstering the agricultural sector, Jammu witnessed the launch of the four-day FPO Mela-Tarang, an event dedicated to celebrate the unity and achievements of Farmer Producers’ Organisations (FPOs) across Jammu and Kashmir.
Organized by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) in partnership with Small Farmers Agri-Business Consortium (SFAC) and Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), the fair commenced on Tuesday at Kala Kendra Jammu and will continue till 15th March 2024.
Tarang Mela serves as a testament to the success of this partnership, providing a platform to FPOs to showcase their diverse range of products, from farm-fresh produce to artisanal crafts. Attendees can expect to peruse stalls brimming with organic fruits and vegetables, aromatic spices, handcrafted textiles, exquisite handicrafts, and much more – all proudly bearing the mark of FPO excellence.
Bhallamudi Sridhar, Chief General Manager, NABARD, J&K Regional office inaugurated the fair. During his inaugural speech, B. Sridhar CGM, JK RO highlighted the importance of connecting farmers directly to markets. He emphasized that the objective of TARANG is to demonstrate high quality products of FPOs and connect them directly to consumers offline and online with assistance from Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).
He stressed that the mela aims to provide a platform for exhibition and sale of a diverse range of products produced by farmers, artisans, weavers and SHG women from the rural hinterlands of Jammu and Kashmir and adjoining states.
Anamika, General Manager, NABARD, J&K RO briefed that this initiative is not just fair but a testament to the innovative strategies being employed to support the agricultural community. By bringing together FPOs, the event encourages the exchange of ideas and best practices, enabling farmers to gain insights into new agricultural technologies and market trends. The collaboration with SFAC and ONDC further enhances the fair’s ability to connect farmers with broader markets, demonstrating the potential of digital platforms in transforming agricultural marketing.
On this occasion, progressive farmers from Jammu and Kashmir region, also participated in the inaugural event.