ABSTRACT

This chapter examines the National Rural Livelihoods Mission's (NRLM) innovative approach to support marginalised women farmers through Producer-Owned Enterprises in India. Through a case study of the Foundation for Development of Rural Value Chain (FDRVC), established in 2019, this chapter explores how professional expertise and standardised procedures can strengthen producer companies. Drawing on the author's years of experience in policy making and in on-field implementation of promoting large-size Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) across the country and secondary data, the chapter provides insights into effective operational frameworks spanning institution building, business planning, supply chain management, and marketing for Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs). While a systematic evaluation of the FDRVC model is critical for scaling similar programmes, this chapter concludes that future initiatives should prioritise technological integration and strategic partnerships.