Visakhapatnam: A Model of Community and Enterprise

In the Sirasapalli hamlet of Pedabayalu mandal, Alluri Sitharama Raju district, a group of determined women embarks on their daily work with a sense of purpose and teamwork. Some head to the processing unit to prepare and package snacks based on received orders, while others travel in a mobile rural mart van to sell millet-based products door-to-door or take fresh orders.

Thanks to multiple livelihood enterprise development workshops organized by Sarada Valley Development Samithi (SVDS) and Sabala, which empower farmer producer organizations (FPOs), women from various villages in ASR, Anakapalli, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, and Srikakulam have mastered the production and marketing of millet-based ready-to-eat products.

A Network of FPOs Driving Change

These women are part of FPOs like Giri Siri, Susag Millets Producers Ltd, Visakha Millets, and Lambasingi Tribal, where they not only market organically-grown millet products but also educate locals about the health benefits of consuming these indigenous grains. "In addition to millet-based products, there is a high demand for organically-grown turmeric and pepper in Visakhapatnam, Odisha, and Delhi.

Millet-based snacks, cakes, cookies, upma mix, and instant idli and dosa batter have become staples in urban kitchens. We produce and deliver these items based on orders through vehicles or courier services," explains Tuburu Shanti Kumari, CEO of Susag FPO.

Support and Sustainability

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has provided financial support for the acquisition of mobile rural mart vans, which are used for grain procurement and product sales in various markets, including remote areas. Additional support for these vans comes from the Rotary Club, the AP Integrated Irrigation and Agriculture Transformation Project, and various NGOs.

"Seven vehicles have been deployed to FPOs under the North Coastal FPO’s Collective. These vehicles meet various needs of the millet sisters, from procuring grains to selling produce in markets and residential areas. They also support the sale of millets, milk, organically grown vegetables, fruits, and dry fruits," shares K. Jogi Naidu, secretary of SVDS. The deployment of these vehicles has significantly benefited the FPOs, ensuring the sustainability of their business units.

Strengthening the Rural Economy

In North Andhra, the efforts led by NGOs have strengthened 19 FPOs by providing necessary infrastructure and marketing facilities, contributing to the rural economy's growth and resilience.

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