ICAR–CRRI Strengthens FPO–Startup Synergies for Sustainable Agri-Value Chains
ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI), in collaboration with KIIT-TBI and BCKIC, organized a high-impact programme under EAP-391 on “Strengthening FPO–Startup Synergies for Sustainable Agri-Value Chains.” The event connected 13 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) with 12 agri-tech startups to foster partnerships for technology-driven agricultural growth. It focused on building partnerships through incubation platforms such as VIKAS R-ABI, KIIT-TBI, and BCKIC, creating actionable linkages across input supply, mechanization, processing, marketing, and digital solutions to strengthen sustainable agri-value chains.
Inaugurating the programme, Dr. G.A.K. Kumar, Director, ICAR-CRRI, stressed the importance of strong collaborations between startups and FPOs. Mr. Sunil M.P., KIIT-TBI, lauded innovative agri-startup ideas, and Dr. Biswajit Mondal, ICAR-CRRI, proposed the vote of thanks.
Speakers highlighted incubation support from VIKAS R-ABI, KIIT-TBI, and BCKIC, with presentations on agri-entrepreneurship, market linkages, and scaling FPOs. A panel discussion featuring Mr. L.K. Paltasingh and Mr. Bipin Rout emphasized aggregation, government schemes, and successful FPO models.
Startups showcased innovations in bio-fertilizers, cold storage, renewable energy, fisheries, hydroponics, and more. The event concluded with a roadmap for collaborations, setting the stage for sustainable, technology-led agri-value chains and stronger farmer-startup partnerships.
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