Assessing Women Farmers' Perceptions of Farmer Producer Organizations: A Special Reference to Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India

Aim: This research aims to assess the perceptions of women farmers regarding Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), with a specific focus on women-based FPOs in Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu. The primary objective is to contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable FPO models, which can support smallholder farmers in improving their livelihoods and achieving food security. Research Gap: The research aims to fill a critical gap in existing literature by focusing exclusively on women farmers' perspectives on FPOs, thereby providing insights into the effectiveness of FPOs in empowering women in agriculture. Study Location: Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, was chosen due to its high concentration of FPOs under the Central Sector Plan for 10,000 new FPOs. FPO Selection: Four women-based FPOs were purposively selected from 17 in the region, focusing on FPOs with exclusively female members to explore women farmers' experiences. Sample Size and Data Collection: Structured questionnaires were used to collect data from 30 members in each of the four selected women-based FPOs, totaling 120 participants. Data Analysis: Factor analysis was applied to the dataset comprising 22 variables related to women farmers' views of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Results: Study identified eight critical factors that significantly shape women farmers' perceptions of FPOs. These factors include the business ecosystem, value addition services, marketing services, production services, bargaining power, social capital, advisory services, and prosperity benefits. Together, these factors explain 68.356% of the variance in the data, offering valuable insights into what influences women farmers' views on FPOs. Conclusion: Joining an FPO offers equal opportunities, collective procurement, and knowledge exchange for all farmers, empowering women with training and resources for active participation in agriculture. FPOs boost prosperity, elevate societal status, and provide valuable support to women farmers, enhancing their livelihoods.