Meghayala, India – The Iaipyrshang Farmer Producer Organisation, located in the West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India was formed in 2022 with 200 members. With support from the Northeast India Committee on Relief and Development (NEICORD), the idea of forming the organization was formalized during a consultative meeting that led to the selection of the Board of Directors (BoD), which comprises 10 members, including three women.
The organization has grown into 250 farmer-members with a strong representation of women (117) and youth (47). The organization was officially registered on October 3, 2023, and has since developed a robust governance and management structure. The organizational structure includes a CEO (appointed through NABARD and NEICORD), a secretary for documentation, a treasurer, and a marketing committee. The organization maintains regular financial reports, including balance sheets and income statements, developed with NEICORD’s support.
The primary enterprise of the organization revolves around the production and marketing of ginger and chili, supplemented by guava, pineapple, broom grass, and traditional handicrafts made from bamboo, cane, and other materials. In 2023, the organization procured and marketed 50 kilograms of king chili and 25 kilograms of long chili; these increased to 56 kilograms and a higher amount respectively in 2024. Ginger production rose from 75 kilograms to over 83 kilograms during the same period.
To support its operations and expansion, the organizations received financial support of USD 5,500 from the APFP-FO4A program intended for constructing a Common Resource Center (CRC) and purchasing produce from farmers. The CRC, established on land leased from the village council for 20 years, was erected in 2023. Additional government assistance supported the construction of a pack house and a water harvesting structure.
The organization has facilitated access to financial services for its members. Over 50 farmers have obtained loans ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 1 lakh (approximately USD 600 to USD 1,200) from the Meghalaya Rural Bank, primarily for agriculture and livestock. NEICORD and master trainers from the organization played a crucial role in guiding farmers through the application and repayment processes.
Despite its successes, the organization faces challenges including pest infestations, crop damage from stray animals, price fluctuations, and the impacts of climate change. Soil fertility and knowledge on pest control remain pressing concerns. However, through collective action and training on improved farming methods, the organization continues to address these issues strategically.
With a strong foundation and a clear vision, the Iaipyrshang FPO exemplifies the power of organized farmers in improving rural livelihoods and promoting sustainable agriculture in Meghalaya.
The Asia-Pacific Farmers’ Program (APFP) – Farmers’ Organizations for Asia (FO4A) is implemented by the Asian Farmers’ Association for Sustainable Rural Development (AFA) and La Via Campesina (LVC), with funding from the European Union (EU) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The program aims to strengthen the capacities of farmers’ organizations to provide economic services, advocate for enabling policies, and promote sustainable livelihoods for small-scale family farmers across Asia.
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